Washington state officials hope that new traffic cameras on Interstate-5 can make driving on this busy strip of Washington highway a bit safer. The goal is to make it less likely that drivers will suffer a car accident as they travel the highway from Arlington to Tacoma, Washington.

The Web cameras allow motorists to view real-time pictures of traffic conditions on the highway. This might not seem overly important. However, if drivers see that traffic is backed up because of wintry conditions or an existing accident, it might cause them to either choose alternate driving routes or practice safe-driving techniques.

Such cameras can also reduce congestion as drivers seek new ways to get to work once they see bumper-to-bumper driving conditions.

In a story on the HeraldNet.com website, traffic authorities emphasized that the new cameras are not being used to give out speeding or reckless driving tickets. Instead, the goal is to give motorists the information they need to make the best possible driving choices.

The new cameras cost the state $1.1 million. They are part of an overall $3.2 million project that also included repaving the southbound lanes of Interstate-5 as it stretches from Marysville and Everett, Washington.

The new Web cameras can also hope emergency personnel who are responding to the scene of an accident. By bringing up the camera views, they can quickly get a sense of the damage already caused by an accident, lessening the chance for any unpleasant surprises as they arrive on the scene.

Source: The Herald, "Cameras offer a wider view of traffic between Everett, Arlington," Bill Sheets, Feb. 13, 2012