[ucla695]

Both. They have a legitimate use, but I think that cities rely on them as an additional source of revenue, especially with budget constraints. Let me preface what I'm about to say by stating that if we all obey traffic laws, drive safely, yada, yada, yada, we don't have anything to worry about. However, that's not the reality for a lot of drivers. My biggest problem with them is that people should know somewhat instantly when they are cited for breaking a traffic law (i.e. getting pulled over by an officer), not several weeks later, because that knowledge will help alter future driving habits (fear of insurance going up, losing ones license, etc..). The sooner you know, the sooner you can adjust. That said, they do help and in California there are warning signs before intersections with these cams. Ultimately, play by the rules and you don't have anything to worry about.