Drivers in Culver City, California are increasingly reporting expensive rolling right turn tickets, especially at the intersection of Sepulveda Boulevard and Green Valley Circle. This intersection has become a focal point for debate about fairness, safety, and revenue generation from automated traffic enforcement.
What makes these tickets controversial is the perception that there is no clear signage warning drivers that they must come to a complete stop before making a right turn on red. Many drivers believe they slowed down, checked for pedestrians, and safely continued, only to later receive a citation in the mail.
Why the Sepulveda and Green Valley Intersection is a Hot Spot
Culver City has long been one of the most aggressive municipalities in Southern California in enforcing red-light violations with cameras. The Sepulveda and Green Valley location is heavily trafficked because it feeds into retail areas, schools, and the 405 freeway.
The intersection is equipped with Redflex-operated red-light cameras, which automatically monitor vehicle movement. These cameras are particularly sensitive to rolling right turns, where drivers slow but fail to come to a full stop behind the white limit line before turning.
Local residents and commuters argue that the intersection feels more like a ticket trap than a legitimate safety measure. Unlike some areas where signs are posted to clarify right-turn stopping rules, Culver City has not consistently installed such notices, creating confusion for out-of-town drivers.
What Exactly is a Rolling Right Turn Ticket?
A rolling right turn ticket is issued when a driver:
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Approaches a red light.
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Slows down, but does not fully stop behind the stop bar.
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Proceeds to turn right while the light remains red.
According to California Vehicle Code §21453, drivers must come to a complete stop at a red light before turning, unless otherwise posted. A “complete stop” means that all four wheels of the vehicle stop moving behind the line, even if the road is clear.
The cost of such a violation in Los Angeles County is around $500, once base fines and administrative fees are included. On top of that, the ticket adds a point to the driver’s DMV record, which can result in higher insurance premiums for years to come.
How the Red-Light Cameras Operate
The cameras use sensors embedded in the pavement to detect when a vehicle crosses into the intersection after the signal turns red. When triggered, they capture several still photographs and often a 12-second video clip of the incident.
These images are then reviewed by law enforcement staff before a citation is issued. The evidence typically shows:
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The vehicle entering the intersection.
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The driver behind the wheel.
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The license plate.
In rolling right turn cases, the footage usually depicts the car crossing the line without fully stopping. Even if no pedestrians or cross traffic are present, the law does not allow exceptions for convenience.
The Debate: Safety vs. Revenue
The Safety Argument
Supporters argue that red-light cameras prevent pedestrian accidents. Culver City has many intersections near shopping centers, bus stops, and schools. Requiring all drivers to come to a full stop is believed to reduce risks for pedestrians crossing with a walk signal.
The Revenue Argument
Critics believe rolling right turn enforcement is primarily about money. Studies have shown that accidents from rolling right turns are rare compared to broadside crashes caused by running straight through red lights. Yet, Culver City continues to issue thousands of rolling tickets annually.
At $500 per citation, even a few thousand tickets generate millions of dollars. A portion of this revenue is shared with Redflex, creating concerns that financial motives outweigh safety priorities.
Do Signs Have to Be Posted?
The law requires drivers to stop at all red lights, regardless of signage. However, many cities install “Right Turn Must Stop” signs at camera-enforced intersections to remove ambiguity.
At Sepulveda and Green Valley, there is no such sign. Drivers argue this omission creates unfair conditions, especially for those unfamiliar with the intersection. Los Angeles has addressed similar concerns by posting clear stop requirements, while Culver City has not consistently followed suit.
Common Defenses to Rolling Right Turn Tickets
While these tickets are tough to fight, several defenses have been successfully argued:
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Necessity Defense – Stopping abruptly would have caused a rear-end collision.
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Obstructed View – Traffic lights, signs, or limit lines were blocked by construction or vegetation.
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Full Stop Evidence – The video actually shows the car fully stopped for a brief moment, even if subtle.
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Technical Error – Camera miscalibration or timing errors can lead to false triggers.
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Improper Documentation – Errors in how the ticket was processed can sometimes result in dismissal.
Many drivers hire traffic attorneys who specialize in photo enforcement tickets. Since the penalties are steep, a skilled lawyer may reduce or dismiss the charges by exploiting weaknesses in the evidence.
Public Sentiment in Culver City
Local forums and sites like PhotoEnforced.com are filled with heated debates. Some residents support strict enforcement, saying drivers in Los Angeles need constant reminders to prioritize pedestrian safety. Others feel Culver City is abusing the system for financial gain, particularly since the city partners with a private vendor.
How Much Revenue Do These Tickets Generate?
Each ticket costs around $500. If the city issues 10,000 rolling right turn tickets in a year, that’s $5 million in revenue. Typically, the vendor receives a cut—sometimes up to 40%—for maintaining the equipment.
This financial structure has drawn criticism nationwide. Opponents argue that public safety should never be tied to revenue-sharing agreements that incentivize ticket volume.
Comparison to Other Cities
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Los Angeles: Has posted signs at many intersections requiring a full stop before right turns, reducing confusion.
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San Diego: Removed its red-light cameras after concluding they were more about revenue than safety.
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Chicago & Washington, D.C.: National leaders in red-light and speed camera enforcement, generating tens of millions annually but also facing intense backlash.
Culver City finds itself somewhere in the middle—continuing enforcement despite complaints, but not as aggressive as cities with hundreds of camera sites.
Practical Tips for Avoiding Tickets
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Always come to a full stop behind the white line at a red light, even if no one is around.
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Look carefully for pedestrians and bicycles before turning.
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Be aware that slowing down without fully stopping will almost certainly trigger the camera.
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If you receive a ticket, request the video evidence before making decisions about payment or contesting it.
FAQ: Rolling Right Turn Tickets
Q: How long does it take to receive a ticket in the mail?
A: Typically 7–14 business days after the violation.
Q: Can I ignore the ticket?
A: Ignoring it may lead to additional fines, DMV holds, or even collection actions.
Q: Will my insurance rates go up?
A: Yes, since the ticket adds a moving violation point to your record.
Q: Can I fight the ticket?
A: Yes, but success often depends on video review, legal representation, and the circumstances of the stop.
Q: Do pedestrians have to be present for the ticket to be valid?
A: No. The law requires a full stop at red regardless of whether the crosswalk is empty.
The Future of Rolling Right Turn Enforcement in Culver City
As public pressure builds, Culver City may eventually revisit its policies. Options include adding clearer signage, adjusting camera sensitivity, or phasing out rolling right enforcement altogether. Until then, drivers should assume strict enforcement will continue.
The safest strategy remains simple: when in doubt, stop completely at every red light before turning. It may feel unnecessary at times, but in Culver City, it could save you $500 and protect your driving record.