How to Use a Red Light Photo Blocker

Some critics argue that red light cameras unreliably enforce traffic laws.

A number of municipalities in the United States have installed traffic violations cameras at intersections. These cameras snap photos of the license plates of cars that run a red light. Municipalities then process the photographs and send the offending drivers traffic violations tickets. Critics see these cameras as invasive and unreliable, and view the enforcement as motivated by a desire to raise revenue. In response to this new enforcement proliferation, some companies have developed a "photo blocker" spray. This product claims to reflect the flash of the camera, resulting in photographs in which the license plate appears illegible.

Things You'll Need

• Photo blocker spray
• Soap
• Bucket of water
• Sponge or microfiber towel
• Towel
• Screwdriver
• Cardboard or newspaper

Instructions

1. Unscrew the screws holding the license plate to your car -- note that you cannot drive a car with the license plate removed.

2. Scrub away all dirt and grime from the license plate with soap and a sponge or microfiber towel. Completely clean the entire surface of the license plate and then dry it with a towel.

3. Lay some cardboard or newspaper on a flat surface. Place the license plate with the number side facing up on top of the cardboard or newspaper.

4. Apply the photo blocker spray to your license plate by holding in the can's spray trigger and waving the aerosol spray back and forth in straight horizontal lines across the license plate. Note that the aerosol will appear clear on the licenses plate. Continue coating the license plate with the photo blocker until a thick coat of spray sits evenly on the license plate; let the coat dry.

5. Repeat Step 4 several times until the spray has produced a thick, though, clear gloss on the entire license plate surface. Let the license plate dry completely.

6. Re-attach the license plate with the screwdriver. One manufacturer of this product claims that this initial coat will not wash off during car washes or in rain or other inclement weather.

Tips & Warnings

• Check the laws of your state before purchasing and applying this product. Some states, such as Iowa, prohibit any tampering with or defacing of an Iowa license plate.

References

• National Institute for Highway Safety: Q&A: Red light cameras
• National Motorists Association: NMA Objections To Red-Light Cameras
• Web Bike World: Red Light Camera Photo Blocker
• Phantom Plate: Photo Blocker Spray