Photo enforcement technology—such as red light cameras and speed enforcement cameras—is now widely used across many cities and states. While it's designed to improve road safety, it has also led to a surge in traffic citations, some of which are issued unfairly. That’s where traffic lawyers come in.
Let’s explore the different types of traffic lawyers and what they do, especially as it relates to photo enforcement cases.
1. Speeding Ticket Lawyers
What They Do:
Speeding ticket lawyers help drivers contest citations, including those issued by automated speed cameras. These tickets are often mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle, regardless of who was driving.
Photo Enforcement Example:
You receive a ticket in the mail stating you were going 42 mph in a 25 mph zone, captured by a speed camera. A speeding ticket lawyer can review the ticket’s validity—was the camera calibrated correctly? Is the signage clear? Were you actually driving?
Why Hire One:
-
Can challenge the accuracy of radar or camera equipment
-
May argue improper signage or camera placement
-
Often able to get tickets dismissed or penalties reduced
2. DUI/DWI Lawyers
What They Do:
DUI lawyers defend individuals charged with driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. While these cases don’t typically involve photo enforcement directly, surveillance footage from traffic cameras is increasingly used as supporting evidence in DUI arrests.
Photo Enforcement Example:
A traffic camera catches your vehicle swerving between lanes moments before a police stop. That footage could be used against you. A DUI lawyer can analyze whether the footage is admissible and if it actually shows impaired driving.
Why Hire One:
-
Can question the relevance and clarity of photo or video evidence
-
Will assess whether your rights were violated during the stop or arrest
3. Reckless Driving Lawyers
What They Do:
These lawyers defend clients charged with driving behaviors that endanger public safety. When photo or video evidence is involved—like excessive speeding, running multiple red lights, or illegal passing—lawyers can argue context or challenge how the evidence was obtained.
Photo Enforcement Example:
A red light camera captures you speeding through an intersection while narrowly missing a pedestrian. This could be charged as reckless driving. A lawyer might argue that the light was yellow when you entered or that there was a mechanical failure.
Why Hire One:
-
Can contest interpretations of video footage
-
May negotiate lesser charges like improper driving
4. License Suspension Lawyers
What They Do:
If you accumulate too many points from photo-enforced tickets, your license could be suspended. These lawyers help you fight to keep your driving privileges and navigate administrative hearings with the DMV.
Photo Enforcement Example:
Three photo tickets in one year push you over your state’s point limit, triggering a license suspension. A lawyer can help reduce points or challenge the legitimacy of one or more violations.
Why Hire One:
-
Can help avoid or reverse a license suspension
-
Skilled at DMV administrative appeals
5. Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Lawyers
What They Do:
CDL lawyers represent professional drivers facing tickets that threaten their livelihood. Even minor photo-enforced violations can have serious consequences for CDL holders, including job loss.
Photo Enforcement Example:
A truck driver is ticketed for speeding in a work zone via a speed camera. The driver wasn’t aware the zone was active or the speed limit had changed. A lawyer can argue signage was inadequate or that the driver wasn’t operating the vehicle at the time.
Why Hire One:
-
Can protect your CDL from points and suspensions
-
Experienced in defending against commercial enforcement standards
6. Hit and Run Lawyers
What They Do:
These attorneys defend clients accused of leaving the scene of an accident. While traditionally investigated with witness statements, photo and surveillance footage are now a major part of these cases.
Photo Enforcement Example:
A traffic camera captures a vehicle fleeing the scene of a minor fender-bender. You own the car but weren’t driving. A hit-and-run lawyer can dispute driver identity or claim the driver was unaware of the incident.
Why Hire One:
-
Can challenge footage as inconclusive or misinterpreted
-
May negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges
7. Traffic Accident Lawyers
What They Do:
These lawyers represent clients involved in vehicle collisions. They use photo enforcement footage to either defend their clients or prove another party’s liability in civil court.
Photo Enforcement Example:
A red light camera shows another car hitting you as you legally pass through an intersection. Your lawyer can use this footage to prove the other driver ran the light, strengthening your injury claim.
Why Hire One:
-
Skilled in using footage to support claims or defenses
-
Can help recover compensation for damages and injuries
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Traffic Lawyer
Photo enforcement can feel like a one-sided system—but it’s not always accurate or fair. The right traffic lawyer can analyze the footage, identify weaknesses in the ticketing process, and represent your best interests in court or at a hearing.
If you’ve received a citation based on photo evidence, don’t assume it’s a done deal. From speeding tickets to license suspensions, there’s a legal expert ready to fight for you.