Caught Running Red Light During Blizzard? No Problem
CHICAGO (WBBM) - The City of Chicago Tuesday decided to give a pass to those caught by red light cameras during last week's blizzard.
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For many who rolled or slid through red lights, there was no choice. Not only couldn't motorists stop. In some cases, had they done so, it would have caused a collision.
People who turned on red or with arrows from traffic lanes, because turn lanes were choked with snow, also were caught on camera.
Chicago Dept. of Revenue Director Bea Reyna-Hickey, in a statement, said that because of the "unusual and difficult conditions" caused by the storm, the city will not issue tickets to anyone caught on camera between 6:30 p.m. Feb. 1 and 3 p.m. Feb. 2.
Outside of that period, decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis.
"We will conduct an even more careful review of potential violations that may have occurred last week and this week to avoid any motorist being issued a ticket in error," she said.
For instance, if a right turn lane is partially blocked and a motorist uses the next lane to take a right turn on red, the city will not issue a ticket.
Reyna-Hickey concedes that some motorists may be issued red light tickets anyhow. Those who receive tickets, and believe they were issued in error, can call the city of Chicago's ticket help line.
The help line number is (312) 744-PARK (7275).
