I thought I'd do you a favor and warn you:  The newest red light camera in Tucson is about to go online.

I live near Tucson Mall and when I'd drive through the River and Oracle intersection for the last couple of weeks I couldn't figure out for a while why construction crews were working there (and causing traffic backups because they'd have lane restrictions).  I finally found out it was because the new red light traffic cameras were being installed.

I moved to Tucson in 2001 and red light cameras are relatively common in northern California (where I lived prior to moving here).  Apparently Tucson is growing up as a city because we have them now.

Here's a warning for you :  I found out today that there are other things that can be added to your ticket besides running a red light.  If you are in the intersection when the light turns red the motion detectors are activated and the picture taking starts.  You not only can get a ticket for running the red light but also if your registration is expired, if you were speeding when you went through the intersection, and even if the picture it takes shows you didn't have your seat belt on you'll have that added to the ticket you receive in the mail.  Basically any additional infraction that the camera can catch you can get nailed for.  Wow!

If I was the adventurous type I'd try something fun if I ran the red light at one of those camera equipped intersections.  Like sticking out my tongue, going shirtless, hanging my head out the window, wearing a bucket on my head, something like that.  However I have a feeling the Tucson Police wouldn't find it as funny as I did when they'd review the picture later.  Maybe they have more of a sense of humor than I think.

The four intersections that now have red light cameras in Tucson:

River & Oracle (it'll be activated Saturday 3/29 at 6 a.m.)
Wilmot & 22nd
Tanque Verde & Grant
Valencia & Nogales Highway

If you're going to run a red light at one of those intersections you probably should be ready.  Hair did, makeup on, wearing a nice outfit, car washed.  It's like the paparazzi in Hollywood.  Celebrities don't go out knowing their picture is going to be taken without looking like a star!