Traffic cameras are now a common feature in many U.S. cities, and two of the most debated violations they enforce are right-on-red tickets and red light running tickets. At first glance, they may seem similar, but legally and financially, they are treated very differently. Drivers often wonder why one carries a heavier fine or why some cities issue more of one type of ticket than the other. Understanding the distinctions can help drivers avoid fines and shed light on how municipalities collect revenue.
What Is a Right-on-Red Photo Enforced Ticket?
When a driver makes a right turn at a red light without a complete stop, a photo enforcement system may capture the violation. These tickets are typically issued when:
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The vehicle does not stop before the crosswalk.
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The turn is made despite a posted “No Turn on Red” sign.
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The turn endangers pedestrians or cyclists.
Typical Penalties:
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Fines: $50–$100
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Civil infraction in many states (no points)
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Often classified as non-moving violation
What Is a Running a Red Light Ticket?
A red light running violation occurs when a driver enters an intersection after the signal has turned red. Unlike right-on-red tickets, this is seen as a more dangerous infraction because it often leads to serious accidents.
Typical Penalties:
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Fines: $150–$500
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Considered a moving violation
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Can result in points on your license
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May raise insurance premiums
Revenue Differences
Cities make far more money from right-on-red violations simply because they are more frequent and easier to capture with cameras. However, red light running tickets, while less common, usually generate higher fines per ticket.
Comparison Table: Top 10 U.S. Cities with Camera Enforcement
| City/State | Right-on-Red Fine | Red Light Running Fine | License Points | Insurance Impact | Revenue Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington, D.C. | $100 | $150+ | Yes (red light), often civil for right-on-red | Yes, for moving | Over 60% of camera tickets are right-on-red |
| Chicago, IL | $100 | $100 | Treated as moving | May impact insurance | $50M+ annually from red light cameras |
| New York City, NY | Rare (most intersections ban right-on-red) | $50 | Yes (moving) | Minimal at $50 | Focused on safety, low fines |
| Los Angeles, CA (ended in 2011) | $159 base ($500 w/ fees) | $159 base ($500 w/ fees) | Yes | Yes | Ended program after public backlash |
| Phoenix, AZ | $90 | $250 | Yes for both | Red light strongly impacts | Cameras operated by contractors like Redflex |
| Miami, FL | $75 | $158 | Right-on-red: civil, no points; red light: moving | Yes, for red light | Highly controversial over fairness |
| Houston, TX (ended in 2010) | $75 | $75–$200 | Yes | Yes | Program repealed by voter referendum |
| Philadelphia, PA | $100 | $100 | Yes | Yes | Over $100M collected since program began |
| Seattle, WA | $124 | $136 | Civil infraction, no points | No insurance impact | Revenue earmarked for traffic safety programs |
| San Francisco, CA | $100+ (varies w/ fees) | $500+ | Yes | Yes | Among highest fines in the country for red light running |
Safety vs. Revenue Debate
Critics argue that right-on-red tickets are more about money than safety, since the majority do not involve collisions. On the other hand, red light running tickets clearly address a dangerous behavior tied to serious crashes. Cities face pressure to balance safety goals with budget needs, which is why enforcement priorities differ.
Conclusion
While both right-on-red and red light running tickets come from camera enforcement, they differ in seriousness, penalties, and revenue generation. Right-on-red tickets tend to be lower in fines but more frequent, generating steady income for cities. Red light running tickets are harsher, more dangerous, and can have lasting impacts on driving records and insurance.
For drivers, the best approach is simple: always come to a complete stop, obey signage, and be cautious at intersections. For cities, the challenge remains ensuring that enforcement prioritizes safety over profit.