In El Paso, there are 18 cameras scattered throughout intersections that have had high numbers of traffic accidents due to drivers running red lights.

The system pays for itself, using the money collected from fines instead of tax dollars. But some drivers say the system is flawed.

"I didn't even know I'd really crossed the line," said Alex Martinez, West El Paso. "It was one of those stops when I'd pulled the corner to turn right. It was late like at midnight and I got a ticket at my house a few months later saying 'Hey, you didn't completely stop and turn so you're going to have to pay a fine.'"

Other critics say the cameras improperly assume guilt, not deciphering if a driver was swerving to avoid another reckless driver or keeping up with traffic. Also, the traffic cameras don't take a picture of who's driving the car. Because it's not a criminal offense to run a red light, a picture isn't necessary. Texas Law states it's the owner of the car who's liable, not the driver.

But those in favor of the cameras argue that the camera's save lives, making drivers think twice before they chance running a light and causing an accident.

A student at UTEP, Tony Unome, says he walks to campus and has to be wary about drivers who cut things too close.

"Many times when I'm walking up, and there isn't a camera at the intersection, I'll go across but I have to cross in the middle of the intersection because the car is so far up way past the white line," Unome said.

The cameras in El Paso have been up since September of 2006. The city doesn't show any sign of removing the cameras, in fact they're looking to add a few more, but haven't decided where.

If you'd like to learn more about how the traffic cameras work you can visit http://www.elpasotexas.gov/police/red_light.asp

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