Of the many ways to use a GPS, here’s a new one: to avoid getting tickets. Many cities have red light cameras, and if you live in a big city, you’ve probably come across the technology.

 

Red Light Cameras in the USA

Red light cameras have been used in the U.S. for a long time now. A quick Internet search shows which cities have red light cameras in operation. 25 states and the D.C. all utilize red light cameras, and law enforcement is relying on them more and more. The fines for being caught running red lights vary from state to state, ranging from  $50 to $250.

 

Internet databases show where these cameras are, but it is nearlyimpossible to remember all that information, and even even with that information in mind, it does not avoid accidentally running that “yellow light” at the wrong spot.

 

A Hack to Avoid Getting Tickets Using GPS

Interestingly, Business Insider reported on their website that there is now a hack that uses GPS technology to find where these cameras are. This information is not perfect, but it not only tells the user where the cameras are, it also alerts the user when there’s a red light near.

 

The hack uses a GPS device, a database to know where the cameras are, an OLED display, and a special chip.This alert system doesn’t prevent running a red light, but it definitely makes the user more aware while driving.

 

Again, it’s a hack, which means that this feature will not be available next time you try to buy a GPS. It will not be in the specs. But if you’re really into technology, you can probably find out yourself how to access the information. The source code is available online.

 

GPS and Creativity

It is interesting how people are finding new, creative ways to use GPS. I never leave home without my GPS, but until recently I only used it to find my way through my city. But now, I’m using it for more and more things. To find stores, restaurants, ATMs, bus routes and arrival times, or to know where a friend is. At the rate that technology is moving, soon we will find new ways to integrate GPS with our daily life.