By Bari Auerbach

‘Candid Camera’

The City of Sunny Isles Beach will soon have cameras along Collins Avenue that can catch red light runners “red handed.” But just think how much more revenue the city would collect in fines if the cameras could catch other fine-worthy violations like these:

*Distraction infractions: Hefty fines could be a deterrent if you knew cameras could catch you texting when trying to change lanes; listening to your i-Pod while backing out of a parking spot so you can’t hear the person behind you leaning on their horn; or wielding chopsticks behind the wheel to eat your take-out sushi.

*Cosmetic multi-tasking: If the cameras could catch all the drivers putting on lipstick and mascara in rearview mirrors; polishing nails on dashboards; or brushing and flossing on the way to dates and dental appointments – the roads would surely be a lot safer even though drivers might be a bit less attractive.

*Lost in space: From mindless meandering and driving below 20 mph when there’s no school zone - to stopping for no apparent reason in the middle of the road or intersection blocking (especially in front of a shopping center entrance) – if annoying violations like these could be caught on camera, it would be a great wakeup call “swerving” to help set twilight zone drivers straight.

*Spot stealers and time wasters: Just think how profitable and gratifying it would be if the city instituted fines for stealing parking spots! This concept could also extend to stores where tickets should be issued to customers not adhering to the “wait your turn” ticket system – and express lane abusers who always have way more than 10 items, pay with checks, redeem entire coupon books and then insist the cashier charged them too much.

*Just rewards: Instead of only issuing fines, it would be nice if the city could also give rewards to residents going above and beyond to be the best drivers by never running red lights or causing rear end collisions by coming to a screeching halt. Of course the biggest rewards of all should be reserved for those smiling for the camera knowing how much money in gas they’re saving by taking a Sunny Isles Beach shuttle bus!