Getting a traffic ticket in the mail is frustrating enough—but receiving one when you weren’t even behind the wheel? That’s a whole different kind of headache. Whether it's a speed camera violation, red-light ticket, or parking citation, there are steps you can take to dispute the charge if you weren’t the driver at the time. Here's a clear guide on what to do next.
1. Don’t Ignore the Ticket
It might feel tempting to toss that ticket aside, especially if you’re not responsible for the violation. However, ignoring it can result in late fees, a suspended registration, or even collections. Most jurisdictions have a short window—often 15 to 30 days—to dispute the citation, so act quickly.
Pro Tip: Check the issue date and submission deadline printed on the ticket to avoid penalties.
2. Review the Details Carefully
Start by looking at the ticket for:
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Date and time of the incident
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Location
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Type of violation (speeding, red light, parking, etc.)
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Photo or video evidence, if applicable (usually for camera tickets)
Ask yourself: Was someone else driving your car at the time? It could be a family member, friend, or even an employee if it's a company vehicle.
3. Identify Who Was Driving
If someone else had permission to use your vehicle, like a friend or family member, you may need to provide their information, depending on the jurisdiction. Some municipalities allow you to transfer liability to the actual driver—but this typically requires proof and documentation.
If your car was stolen or used without your knowledge, you may need to provide a police report to support your claim.
4. Gather Supporting Evidence
Documentation will make or break your case. Consider submitting:
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A notarized affidavit stating you were not the driver
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Proof of your location at the time of the violation (e.g., GPS data, receipts, work schedule)
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Insurance documents showing other listed drivers
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A copy of the police report if the car was stolen
For camera tickets, some systems let you view photos or videos online to confirm who was driving.
5. Follow the Dispute Process
Each city or state has its own procedure for contesting a traffic ticket. Typically, you'll need to:
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Submit a written statement or affidavit through a city website or by mail
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Request a hearing (in-person, virtual, or by phone)
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Attend court if required and present your case to a judge or hearing officer
Be respectful, stick to the facts, and bring all evidence with you.
6. What If You’re a Vehicle Owner But Not the Driver?
In many places, the registered owner of the vehicle is presumed responsible for traffic camera violations. However, you may be able to rebut this presumption by proving:
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You weren’t driving at the time
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You had sold the car (with proof of sale)
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The car was stolen or used without your consent
Make sure to check your local laws to see if transferring responsibility is allowed.
7. When to Consult a Traffic Attorney
If the ticket is for a serious violation, carries high fines, or you’re unsure how to defend yourself, it may be worth consulting a traffic attorney. They can advise on the best defense, handle paperwork, and represent you in court.
Final Thoughts
Receiving a ticket when you weren’t the driver is frustrating—but don’t panic. By acting quickly, gathering evidence, and following the proper dispute process, you can often have the citation dismissed or reassigned to the responsible party. Know your rights, and take the right steps to protect yourself.