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What You Should Know About Red Light Camera Tickets
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What Is a Red Light Camera Ticket?
A red light camera ticket is a type of traffic citation issued after a camera records your vehicle entering an intersection after the traffic light turns red. These tickets typically include:
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A photo of your vehicle
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The time and date of the incident
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The duration the light had been red (also called the “late time”)
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A fine amount and payment instructions
These automated systems are intended to reduce red light violations and improve traffic safety, but they’ve also sparked controversy for being overly punitive or inaccurate.
Are Red Light Camera Tickets Legal?
Yes—but laws vary by state and municipality. Some states have banned them, while others allow them with strict regulations. Always check your local traffic laws to determine the legality of red light camera enforcement in your area.
How Much Is a Red Light Camera Ticket?
The cost of a red light camera ticket can range from $50 to $500 or more, depending on where you live. In some cities, these tickets also come with additional fees or administrative costs. However, unlike traditional traffic tickets, many red light camera violations do not add points to your driving record—but again, this varies by location.
Can You Fight a Red Light Camera Ticket?
Absolutely. Just because you received a ticket doesn’t mean you’re automatically guilty. Here are some common defenses:
1. Short Yellow or Red Light Timing
If the yellow light was too short, or the red light had just turned, it might have been impossible to stop safely. Some jurisdictions require minimum yellow light durations, and failure to meet them can be grounds for dismissal.
2. Late Time Less Than 0.3 Seconds
Many systems include a grace period of 0.3 to 0.5 seconds before recording a violation. If your late time (how long the light had been red) was under this, you could have a strong defense.
3. Not the Driver
If someone else was driving your car, or if the photo doesn’t clearly identify the driver, you might be able to challenge the ticket.
4. Poor Visibility or Weather Conditions
If visibility was impaired due to fog, rain, or other factors, you may have a valid safety argument for why stopping immediately would have been unsafe.
What Happens If You Ignore the Ticket?
Ignoring a red light camera ticket can lead to additional fines, collections, or even a suspended license, depending on your state. Some cities treat these as civil infractions and will pursue payment through collection agencies, while others may escalate enforcement.
Tips for Handling a Red Light Camera Ticket
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Read the ticket carefully for details like time, location, and violation type.
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Check the photos or video provided online (most cities include a link).
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Look for the “late time”—the shorter it is, the better your chance of fighting it.
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Research your local laws, especially any grace period or yellow light timing standards.
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Consider consulting a traffic attorney if you plan to contest the ticket in court.
Are Red Light Cameras Effective?
This is still debated. While some studies show red light cameras reduce T-bone collisions, others show an increase in rear-end accidents from sudden braking. Additionally, critics argue that some cities may prioritize revenue generation over safety, especially if yellow light durations are shortened.
Conclusion
Getting a red light camera ticket can be frustrating—but knowing your rights and responsibilities makes a big difference. Whether you choose to pay, contest, or investigate further, understanding how these systems work is key to protecting your driving record and your wallet.