While many drivers may consider red light traffic cameras a money-making gimmick by local municipalities, a new study has found that the placement of cameras at intersections save lives.

Researchers at the Insurance Institute For Highway Safety found that traffic fatalities were reduced by 24 percent in the 14 cities where the devices were installed. The cameras saved about 160 lives over a 5-year period.

The study also showed that drivers tend to slow down at other nearby intersection.

"People are more aware that the law is being enforced and that makes them more likely to stop," IIHS President Adrian Lund said.

However, opponents pointed out that while the cameras might decrease some crashes, other studies show they can increase others - like rear-end collisions when drivers slam their brakes to avoid getting a ticket.
    
Still, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety said it believes if the cameras were installed in all large cities, hundreds of more lives could be saved.