Facts a Police Officer Must Verify Before Issuing a Ticket

When a police officer pulls over a vehicle, it's not as simple as writing a ticket right away. There are specific facts and legal steps officers must verify before issuing a citation. Understanding these requirements can help drivers protect their rights and avoid unjust penalties.

In this article, we’ll break down the key facts a police officer must confirm before issuing a ticket, whether it’s for speeding, running a red light, illegal parking, or another traffic violation.

1. Probable Cause for the Stop

Before any ticket can be written, a police officer must have probable cause to initiate a traffic stop. This means the officer must observe a clear violation of traffic law or have a reasonable suspicion of criminal activity.

Examples of Probable Cause:

• Speeding over the posted limit (measured with radar or LIDAR)

• Failing to stop at a stop sign or red light

• Weaving between lanes (possible DUI)

• Expired registration or visible vehicle defects (e.g., broken tail light)

2. Driver Identification

Once the vehicle is stopped, the officer must verify the identity of the driver. This includes checking:

• Valid driver’s license

• Vehicle registration

• Proof of insurance

If any of these documents are missing, expired, or fraudulent, the officer may issue additional citations beyond the initial reason for the stop.

3. Accurate Speed Measurement (for Speeding Tickets)

For speeding tickets, officers must have clear and accurate evidence of the driver’s speed. This is typically done using:

• Radar guns

• LIDAR systems

• Pacing (using the officer’s own speedometer while following the car)

• Speed cameras (in jurisdictions where they are legal)

Officers are also required to be trained and certified to use speed detection equipment. Malfunctioning or uncalibrated devices can lead to a ticket being dismissed in court.

4. Clear Signage and Road Markings

Officers must ensure that traffic laws were violated in a clearly marked zone. For example:

• Speed limits must be posted at regular intervals

• No-parking zones must be clearly signed

• Stop signs and traffic signals must be visible and unobstructed

If signage is missing, obscured, or incorrect, a driver may be able to contest the ticket successfully.

5. Legal Authority and Jurisdiction

A police officer must have the jurisdiction and authority to enforce traffic laws in the location where the violation occurred. For example, a campus security officer cannot issue state traffic tickets unless granted specific authority.

6. Documented Evidence

In many cases, especially when drivers contest tickets, courts require that officers provide:

• Written notes or dashcam/bodycam footage

• Accurate time and location of the offense

• Description of the vehicle and driver’s behavior

This documentation helps ensure tickets are based on facts, not assumptions.

7. Driver’s Right to Explanation

Though not a requirement for issuing a ticket, police are expected to allow the driver a chance to explain. This can sometimes lead to a warning instead of a citation, especially for minor infractions.

Final Thoughts

Traffic tickets are legal documents, and police officers must verify multiple facts before they can be lawfully issued. If any of these elements are missing, the ticket may be invalid or subject to dismissal in court.

Understanding your rights and the legal obligations of law enforcement can help you make informed decisions during traffic stops. If you believe a ticket was issued without proper verification, consider consulting a traffic attorney or contesting it in court.

Not the Real Driver on Ticket? Asked to Snitch? What You Need to Know

Receiving a traffic ticket can be a stressful experience, especially if you were not the one driving the vehicle at the time of the violation. In such cases, you may find yourself in a difficult situation, being asked to identify the actual driver or face penalties yourself. This article will explore what to do if you receive a ticket for a violation committed by someone else, the legal implications of “snitching,” and how to navigate the process effectively.

Understanding Traffic Tickets for Another Driver

When you receive a traffic ticket for an infraction committed by someone else, it's crucial to understand your rights and responsibilities. Common scenarios include:

• Camera-Issued Tickets: Many cities use automated systems to issue tickets for red-light and speed violations. If a camera captures your vehicle committing a violation but you were not driving, you may receive a citation.
• Traditional Officer-Issued Tickets: If you were a passenger or if someone else was driving your vehicle, you could still be held accountable if the officer identifies your vehicle in a violation.

What to Do If You're Not the Real Driver

1. Review the Ticket: Carefully examine the ticket for details such as the date, time, location, and nature of the violation. Ensure the vehicle and license plate information are correct.

2. Gather Evidence: If you were not the driver, gather any evidence that supports your claim. This could include:

   • Witness statements from passengers or bystanders.
   • Receipts or timestamps showing you were elsewhere.
   • Photos or videos that could corroborate your story.

3. Contact the Issuing Authority: Reach out to the agency that issued the ticket (typically the police department or local traffic authority). Explain your situation and provide any evidence you have to show you were not driving at the time of the violation.

4. Follow the Instructions: Each jurisdiction may have different procedures for contesting a ticket. Be sure to follow the instructions provided on the ticket or by the issuing authority regarding how to address the citation.

The Snitching Dilemma

When you are asked to identify the driver who committed the violation, it raises an ethical and legal dilemma. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Legal Obligations: In many jurisdictions, you are not legally required to “snitch” or provide the identity of the driver. However, the laws can vary, and some states may impose penalties for failing to provide accurate information.

2. Consequences of Not Identifying the Driver: If you choose not to disclose the identity of the driver, you may face penalties, such as fines or points on your license. It’s essential to weigh the consequences against the ethical considerations of naming someone.

3. Potential Legal Ramifications: Depending on the situation, failing to provide the correct information may result in legal action against you. Consult with a legal expert if you’re unsure of your rights and responsibilities.

The Importance of Communication

When dealing with traffic violations, communication is key. Here are some tips:

• Be Honest: If you were not the driver, be truthful with authorities about the situation. Provide all necessary information without exaggerating or fabricating details.

• Document Everything: Keep detailed records of all communications with law enforcement and the issuing authority. This documentation can be valuable if you need to contest the ticket or defend yourself later.

• Seek Legal Advice: If you find yourself in a complicated situation, consult with a traffic attorney who can provide guidance tailored to your specific circumstances.

Conclusion

Receiving a traffic ticket when you were not the driver can be a confusing and stressful experience. Understanding your rights, responsibilities, and the implications of “snitching” is crucial to navigating the situation effectively. By gathering evidence, communicating with authorities, and seeking legal advice when necessary, you can better manage the challenges that arise from being ticketed for someone else's violation. Remember, transparency and honesty are essential when addressing traffic citations, and knowing your rights can help you make informed decisions.

Received a Ticket But Weren’t the Driver? Here’s What to Do Next

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:

• Date and time of the incident

• Location

• Type of violation (speeding, red light, parking, etc.)

• 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:

• A notarized affidavit stating you were not the driver

• Proof of your location at the time of the violation (e.g., GPS data, receipts, work schedule)

• Insurance documents showing other listed drivers

• 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:

• Submit a written statement or affidavit through a city website or by mail

• Request a hearing (in-person, virtual, or by phone)

• 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:

• You weren’t driving at the time

• You had sold the car (with proof of sale)

• 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.

4 Possible Defenses To Fight Red Light Cameras in Court

Defenses To Fight Red Light Cameras in Court

Red light cameras work by triggering a camera as a vehicle passes over a sensor in the intersection when the light is red. The camera takes pictures of the vehicle’s front license plate and driver. A citation is then mailed to the vehicle’s registered owner, supposedly after a police officer checks the photo of the driver against the driver’s license photo of the registered owner.

The Driver Liable, Not the Owner

The law states that the driver, not the vehicle’s owner, is liable for the ticket.  In states where the driver—not necessarily the owner—is responsible for the ticket, and the owner was not driving at the time of the violation, the owner can fill out an affidavit, swearing that he or she wasn’t driving when the violations occurred.  This is what some call a snitch ticket.  Reasons why snitch tickets are not enforced. 

Photos

When you get the pictures sent to you examine them to see if the picture of the driver bears any likeness to you and whether the license plate number can be read clearly.

Was The Camera Working Properly?

The government must present evidence of how the camera works and that it was working properly on the day the citation was issued. The prosecution must also present the camera’s photos showing the vehicle’s license plate and the driver, along with the driver’s license photo of the vehicle’s registered owner.

Defense #1 - Authenticate Photos 

If the images are clear, you can consider mounting the following defense: If no employee from the company that maintains the red light camera device shows up to testify, you should object to the photos being admitted into evidence, saying, “Your Honor, since no one has appeared to authenticate the photographic evidence, I object to such evidence for lack of foundation.” If the photographs are excluded, there is no evidence to convict you. (On the other hand, if the judge allows the photos in evidence over this proper objection, you may later have a basis for an appeal if found guilty.)

Defense #2 - Clarity of Photos 

If the judge allows the photos into evidence but the images are not clear, you can consider challenging the photo’s clarity, arguing that the evidence is not convincing enough to convict you. You should not agree to testify unless you can truthfully say that you were not driving the vehicle at the time the picture was taken.

Defense #3 - Safety

If you ran the red light to avoid a serious collision or harm to others, you can try and make that argument, and it’s possible that the judge may find that you acted out of “necessity,” which may be reason enough to find you not guilty.

Defense #4 - No "Photo Enforced" Sign Posted

In some states, another possible defense to a red light ticket is that of missing or non-visible posted signs that are supposed to warn of photo enforcement. First, read the law carefully to find if your state has laws about such warning signs. If you got the ticket in a state that does have specific rules about where and how such warning signs must be posted, go back to the intersection to investigate whether the signs there comply with the law. If they don’t, and you prove that to the court with photos and diagrams, you have a good chance of beating the ticket.

Are Fines Too High? 

Red light camera violation fines vary from state to state.  There has been some speculation that fines are too high in some states and that cameras are being removed because people refuse to pay the tickets.  Should red light camera fines be lowered in California? 

Traffic Ticket Scam A93820014BS

Watch Out For These New Speeding Ticket Scams

We have found several users of our site searching for the term "A93820014BS" recently from the following cities.  

Springfield, Indianapolis, Town and Country, Pensacola, Des Plaines, Hillsboro, Allen, Stevens Point, Fayetteville, Chicago, Baltimore, Ballwin, Cassville, Maryland Heights, St. Louis, Bartlesville, Nashville

Scams continue to be an issue as new ones appear every day. Law enforcement warns of the latest phishing scam involving faking traffic violation tickets.

The email stated a vehicle registered to the person had been caught speeding on a stationary traffic camera. They were then given a link to pay a fine of $275 with the police department.

The department explains how scammers are always trying to outsmart email spam filters to make it to your inbox, making it more likely for you to fall victim to a phishing scam.

Phishing emails often tell a story to trick you into clicking on a link of opening an attachment. Some email phishing may:

SCAM ALERT - Speed Camera Citation E-mail Scam - WARNING

The e-mail states that the recipient received an automated
speed camera citation and includes a link.

The MCPD, or any other police departments in Maryland, does NOT send automated speed camera citations via e-mail. pic.twitter.com/aguhDzTmjF

— Montgomery County Department of Police (@mcpnews) March 1, 2019

What If You're Not The Diver In A Red Light Citation?

If you receive a red light camera citation but you were not the driver at the time of the incident, you typically have the option to contest the ticket and provide evidence to prove that you were not the driver. The process for contesting a red light camera ticket can vary depending on the jurisdiction, so it's important to familiarize yourself with the specific rules and procedures in your area.

If you receive a red light violation and you were not the driver, you can fill out the back of the citation with the correct driver name and mail or fax it to the address or number given. You must include a copy of your driver's license.

Here are some general steps you can take if you were not the driver in a red light camera citation:

• Review the citation: Carefully read the citation and any accompanying information to understand the procedures for contesting the ticket. It should provide instructions on how to dispute the citation and what evidence you may need to provide.
• Gather evidence: Collect any evidence that supports your claim that you were not the driver at the time of the incident. This can include photos, witness statements, or any other documentation that can prove your case. It may be helpful to gather evidence such as time-stamped receipts, GPS data, or other records that can establish your whereabouts at the time of the violation.
• Contact the issuing authority: Reach out to the authority responsible for issuing the ticket, such as the local traffic or police department. Inquire about the process for contesting the citation and ask for guidance on how to submit your evidence.
• Follow the instructions: Follow the instructions provided by the issuing authority to contest the ticket. This may involve completing a form, writing a letter of explanation, or submitting evidence through a specific method or platform. Make sure to adhere to any deadlines and provide all required information.
• Attend any required hearings: Depending on the jurisdiction, you may be required to attend a hearing to present your case. Be prepared to present your evidence and explain why you believe you were not the driver. If you have legal representation, consult with them to determine the best course of action.

The process for contesting a red light camera ticket can vary significantly depending on your location. The specific laws and procedures governing traffic violations and citations are established at the local level. Therefore, it's advisable to consult with local authorities or seek legal advice to ensure you follow the correct process and understand your rights in contesting the citation.

"Snitch tickets" are unofficial notices or fake citations that are sometimes sent to vehicle owners after an alleged red light or speed camera violation. These tickets are not official citations issued by law enforcement agencies but rather deceptive attempts to trick vehicle owners into providing information about the actual driver of the vehicle at the time of the alleged violation.

The purpose of snitch tickets is to prompt the vehicle owner to identify someone else as the driver, often a friend or family member, in order to shift the responsibility and potential consequences of the violation onto someone else. The tickets may be designed to look similar to legitimate citations, including official-looking logos, graphics, and even barcodes, in order to appear authentic.

Snitch tickets typically include instructions for the vehicle owner to submit a form or provide information online to identify the driver responsible for the violation. However, it's important to note that responding to these fake tickets is not legally required, and they hold no legal weight or consequences.

It's crucial to distinguish between legitimate citations issued by law enforcement and snitch tickets. Legitimate citations are issued by authorized agencies and carry legal weight, and they typically provide clear instructions on how to pay the fine or contest the citation. If you receive a citation, it is important to verify its authenticity by contacting the appropriate law enforcement agency or municipal court.

If you suspect that you have received a snitch ticket, it is advisable to consult with local authorities, such as the police department or the municipal court, to confirm its legitimacy. They can provide guidance on how to proceed and protect yourself from potential scams or fraudulent activities.

Courtesy Notice: This is not a Ticket

I received one by mail, it was related to a Failure to Stop on a Turn Right at Red Light. I was not driving the car although is my car and I am the registered owner. The ticket says it's a Courtesy Notice: This is not a Ticket. 

What is a courtesy notice?

You will get a courtesy notice 45 - 60 days after you get your citation (ticket). This notice tells you about your options. If you do not get a courtesy notice by the date written at the bottom of your ticket, you must contact the court by phone, in person, or by mail. See the Traffic Courthouse locations page.

Before contacting the court, please check traffic records on the Case Info website. (You can not take care of your citation until it is in the Court's computer system.)

A courtesy notice is a computer-generated document sent to recipients of a traffic violation. Generally speaking, they are sent out for other minor violations and misdemeanors. However, in this case, they will be discussed in the context of traffic violations.

Courtesy notices are sent as a way to inform the recipient about what is expected of them as a consequence of the violation. It could be detailed on the fine or bail payable, court dates if any, and other out-of-court settlement arrangements are available. In a nutshell, they are basically a how-to letter to help you get past this legal glitch in your record.

1. Court appearance details

Here the notice will let you know whether a court appearance is mandatory or not. If it is, you also get details on the date, time, and location of your court session.

2. Information on fines and bail

In this case, the notice contains information on how much is owed as well as procedures to be followed in the payout process.

3. Whether Trial by Declaration is a viable option

Trial by declaration is an option that allows you to challenge traffic citations without having to go to court. Courtesy Notices will let you know whether or not you qualify for this option. And if you do qualify for trial by declaration, there should be information on how to start filing and what you need to do.

4. Consequences of failure to comply

A Courtesy Notice also serves as a warning letter to those who plan on ignoring citations and court dates. In this case, the notice lets you know how much you risk should you decide to not comply with the court’s requirements.

5. Additional options including traffic school

If traffic school is a correctional option for your type of traffic violation, details will also be included on the notice.

When do I have to respond to the Courtesy Notice?

Your courtesy notice will have a due date. You must exercise your options on that date. If you do not get a courtesy notice by the date at the bottom of your ticket, you must contact the court by phone or in person. See the Traffic Courthouse locations page.

Before contacting the court, please check the Case Info website to be sure your citation is in the Court's computer system.

When will you receive your courtesy notice?

The next important thing is to understand when to look out for it. The notices are generally sent out within 30 days after the traffic ticket is issued. This gives the departments involved time to review your case and compile relevant content for your individualized notice. They use your physical address details surrendered during the roadside citation. So once you get your ticket give it 30 days and you will have all the information you need and what to do about it.

Bottom line

It goes without saying that Courtesy Notices are not to be ignored. They could be what saves you a lot of money and help keep your legal record spotless. So in the unfortunate event that you end up cited for some traffic violation or other, keep an eye out for these notices for information on the way forward.

Red Light Camera Ticket Not Me Driving

If you receive a ticket by post from a red light camera and are not the person driving, you don't need to hire a lawyer to challenge the ticket. There is no legal duty to identify the driver of the vehicle, but attorneys hear these stories all the time. Law enforcement and court personnel are caught every day deceiving the public into revealing who was driving. 

According to California law, the driver of the vehicle is responsible for the red light photo ticket, not the owner of the car. However, the red light camera ticket is always mailed to the address of the vehicle owner. Attached to the ticket will be the photo evidence taken at the time of the violation. If the photo is not of you, but another driver, you can contest the ticket. 

It is important to know that you are not required by law to identify the person in the photograph. A judge may ask you to do so and you may decline. A good traffic attorney can assist you in giving the correct answers in court. You can also bring this to the attention of a traffic judge without going to court, and there are three basic ways:

1) Trial by written declaration: This should be your very first step when the car has been sold or you were not the driver. Here are some possible ways to defend your red light camera ticket. 

2) Ask an attorney to send a letter to the issuing police agency, and the court, enclosing a photo of your license and asking that the ticket be dismissed because the registered owner of the vehicle was clearly not driving at that time. Unless promptly notified that it was dismissed, the next step is to ask for a trial by declaration, which you can do yourself without a lawyer.

3)  Hire an attorney who will go to court for you or do your written declaration for you. The judge will be shown the photographic evidence, your own driver’s license photo, and the cost will usually run about around $200-500. The savings in fines and insurance rate increases will often be well worth it.      

Most states have a simple way of dealing with traffic matters, using easy-to-fill-out forms in which you state — and please be brief — why you are not guilty of the traffic offense. Experience shows that in most situations, the driver is going to lose the case. But where it is a question of identity — who was driving the car — or a change in ownership, the chances are very good that your ticket will be dismissed.

What Is A Trial By Written Declaration?

When people are told they can fight a ticket with a written declaration, the most common question is often how to fight it. But most people have never heard of it, so how does it work and how can it help you?  

Choosing to have your trial by written declaration means that instead of going to court to contest your case, you file statements and any evidence in writing. Evidence may a sworn declaration of the citing officer and a written statement or letter signed by the defendant. 

What happens if you contest your ticket by trial by written declaration?
Choosing to have your trial by written declaration means that instead of going to court to contest your ticket, you and the officer file statements and any evidence in writing. Evidence may include:

• The "Notice to Appear" ticket;
• A business record or receipt;
• A sworn declaration of the citing officer;
• A written statement or letter signed by the defendant; and/or
• Any written statements or letters signed by witnesses.
• Photos & video 

By filing a declaration in a trial by written declaration, you are waiving and giving up the right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself, and the right to a public and speedy trial. You are also waiving the right to appear in person before a judicial officer, except that you will have a right to a new trial in court if you disagree with the court’s decision in your trial by written declaration.

The advantage of a trial by written declaration is that the judge can review the arguments in the case privately and without the court's influence or having to go to court. All evidence and statements can be submitted in writing, which in itself dramatically increases your chances of success. However, this form of trial has several crucial disadvantages, as it has the potential to bring each person to a second trial if found guilty.     

Most states have a simple way of dealing with traffic matters, using easy-to-fill-out forms in which you state — and please be brief — why you are not guilty of the traffic offense. Experience shows that in most situations, the driver is going to lose the case. But where it is a question of identity — who was driving the car — or a change in ownership, the chances are very good that your ticket will be dismissed.

How do you ask for a trial by written declaration?

You can ask for your trial by a written declaration in person at the clerk’s office or by mail sent to the courthouse address listed on your ticket.

If you mail your request and enclose a stamped, self-addressed envelope, the court will mail you instructions and a form entitled Request for Trial by Written Declaration (court form). The top portion of the form you receive should be filled out by the court clerk with important information; read it carefully. Once you get the form and instructions, you can fill out the paperwork.

Are you eligible to request a trial by written declaration?

If you have received a traffic violation, you can request a trial by written declaration unless you were issued a ticket for an offense involving alcohol or drugs or the violation requires a mandatory appearance in court.

Additional eligibility requirements include:

• You were issued a ticket for infraction violations only;
• The due date to take care of your ticket has not passed; and
• Your ticket or courtesy notice does not say that you must appear in court.

How Do You Know If a Red Light Camera A Photo

  

The flash of a red light camera is one of the most dreaded things you can see when you pass an intersection. You may have noticed that if you have been caught red-handed running a stoplight because the camera flash will go off at the intersection.  If you don't see flash chances are you did not run the red light.       

Red-light cameras have a flash that goes off during the daytime or night when a violation is detected to enhance the license plate on the rear of the vehicle.  The camera flash is very bright even during the day.  Some drivers running red lights at night have experienced that these flashes are very startling and you will very easily notice them.  

The flashes can be seen at the front and the rear of the vehicle as the cameras are located on the side of the road.  If you see a flash coming from the traffic light it is most likely not a red light camera.  

The police officer or prosecutor reviewing your photo enforced ticket must be able to provide sufficient evidence to prove that it was you driving the vehicle and the camera was working correctly at the time of recording. 

How long does it take to receive a red light camera ticket in the mail? 

Red light camera ticket, not me driving?

Red light camera or traffic light? 

How Red Light Tickets and Speeding Camera Tickets Affect Insurance?

Snitch Tickets

Don't tattle on a friend or a family member for driving your 

What if you receive a red light camera ticket, and the driver wasn't you?

Red light camera tickets cost about $500 per ticket in California and a point on your license. Since the tickets add a point to your license, the police must obtain the name of the actual driver before they can file the ticket at court. Since the photo of the license plate will only lead to the registered owner ("RO"), and often he/she is not the person driving the car. The police will go to great lengths to get registered owners to identify who was driving the car that was ticketed. Technicians reviewing the photos will check to see if the pictured driver is obviously not the registered owner (male/female mismatch, age difference, or a rental car). Sometimes the photo is too blurry to identify who it is and will send the registered owner an official-looking notice telling him that he must identify the driver. About 40 California police departments will mail out Snitch Tickets to fool the registered owner into identifying the actual driver of the car.

 Are Traffic Cameras Legal In Los Angeles, California?

Snitch Tickets have not been filed with the court, so are recognizable because they don't say "Notice to Appear," don't have the court's address, and say (on the back, in small letters), "Do not contact the court." Since they have NOT been filed with the court, they have no legal weight. You can ignore a Snitch Ticket. Snitch Tickets are designed to look like a real ticket but are legally very different. Real tickets and Snitch Tickets both ask the registered owner to turn in or identify the person who was driving the car. Despite all that, there are some differences that you can rely on. One of the best ways to identify a Snitch Ticket is the small print on the back of the page, "Do not contact the court about this notice." Snitch Tickets will also lack any wording directing you to contact or "Respond to" the court. In fact, on a typical Snitch Ticket, there is no phone number for the court, and the court's address is usually missing or incomplete. (Please note, however, that in some towns the real tickets carry an incomplete address.

A real ticket will ask you to contact ("Respond to") the court and you should. If your ticket says this it's likely a real one and you should look it up on the court's website. If it's not on their site, it still could be real. Make sure you are looking on the court's website, not the website of the camera operator Redflex (PhotoNotice) or ATS's. Your ticket is real if you have received a Courtesy Notice and it asks you to contact the court. Please note that your ticket could be real even if the court's phone number is missing and its address is incomplete. This is often the case because some cities are leaving this information off their real tickets to make it harder for defendants to fight their tickets in court.

Read more about how to do a trial by written declaration. 

Option Not to Identify Driver "Snitch Ticket"

The next time you get a snitch ticket in the mail, you may be able to check off "none of the above" when asked to identify who was driving your car when it ran a red light if a new bill passes the legislature.  This is known as a snitch ticket. 

The state Senate unanimously passed SB 1303 on May 31. Sponsored by Sen. Joe Simitian, D-Palo Alto, the bill tightens the rules for deploying red-light cameras and makes it easier to challenge so-called "snitch tickets."

SB 1303 also takes steps to preserve the legal right to remain silent if asked to identify the driver of a car photographed by a camera.

Whenever a red-light camera snaps a photo that isn't clear enough to identify the driver. According to the police, that's about 25 out of every 100 shots. The snitch tickets go to the vehicle's registered owner in hopes of making an identification.

There's no legal obligation for the registered owner to identify the driver, something the current form glosses over. It also tells recipients they must fill out and return the form -- again, not true. 

The goal of the proposed changes is to clearly indicate that you have the option to not identify the driver. The revised form would be used in all jurisdictions with red-light cameras and gives the vehicle's owner several check-box options, including one that states "none of the above" to account for situations where you may either not recognize the driver or not want to identify him or her. It also never states the form must be completed and returned.

California is Trying to Legalize Speed Cameras

 Are Traffic Cameras Legal In Los Angeles, California?

This is a Legislative Guest Blog Post Alert from Highwayrobbery.net.   

Earlier this week a group of our legislators in Sacramento filed Assembly Bill 342, to allow the use
of speed cameras (photo radar) in California.  

In December, another group of our legislators in Sacramento filed Senate Bill 1, which will raise gas
taxes and registration fees.

The two bills - if they pass - will cost you hundreds of dollars every year for the rest of your life. 

SB-1 is coming to a crucial hearing in the Senate Transportation Committee Tuesday, February 14th Valentine's Day - so our legislators need to hear from us very soon.  Info about both bills is on the 
Action/Legis page at my website.

It's easy - and very quick - to call a state legislator's office -  it's one of the few places anymore where a 
live person answers the phone after just a few rings.  Their phone numbers are in the Government section
at the front of your local phone book, or you can find them by Googling find California legislator.   

Regards, 
Jim 
Editor of Highwayrobbery.net

*****
Preventive measures:

1.  Would you like to have speed cameras (photo radar) in California?  How about higher car registration fees, and higher gas tax?  In early 2017, all of these are in bills in the Legislature in Sacramento.  See the Action/Legis page for more information. 

2.  Warn your friends about Snitch Tickets.  They're FAKE tickets issued by the police, and are sneakily different from a REAL red light camera ticket.  And, they can be ignored!  Read about them at the top of the Your Ticket page.  

3.  Also let your friends know that REAL tickets issued by the cities in LA County can be ignored, because the LA County court does not report ignored camera tickets to the DMV.  That ability to ignore includes tickets from the MTA/Metro, too.  (More info is in Set # 2 on the LA County Docs page.)  Educating your friends about these two big classes of tickets that can be ignored will reduce the money flowing to the greedy cities and camera companies and hasten the demise of red light cameras in California.

4.  Do you drive in Bakersfield, Canoga Park, Cathedral City, Culver City, Lynwood, Millbrae (adjacent to SFO), Montebello, Rancho Cordova, Redding, San Leandro, or Ventura?  In 2016 those cities greatly expanded their camera ticketing, so watch out!

5.  There is a very practical reason not to shop any more in red light towns!  In the questionnaire on my website, I ask defendants how often they have driven thru the intersection where they got their ticket.  While the majority of defendants were caught at intersections they had not visited previously, many were flashed at an intersection they were very familiar with.   Conclusion:  You are not safe from getting a ticket - or getting in an accident - simply because you know there's a camera there.  It is necessary to change your routine, to eliminate repeated visits to the intersection.  (It's like playing with snakes - no matter how careful you try to be, eventually they will catch you off guard, and you will get bit.)  The small amount of money you have saved at the big box discount store in that town will be more than offset by the cost of tickets, rearending someone, or being rearended.

Did This LA Times Article Cut Red Light Camera Ticket Revenue In Half?

This article was published on July 26, 2011, and corresponds with month 12 below.  This chart below shows you the revenue in thousands paid by LA County Courts to the cities that use red-light cameras in the county.   LA County courts pay in total roughly $1,200,000 per month to cities in the Los Angeles region.  This represents about 8,000 tickets per month or $150 paid to each city per ticket collected.  If the court does not collect the revenue then the city obviously does not get paid.  Are Traffic Cameras Legal In Los Angeles, California?

Highway Robbery (XLS Spreadhsheet Data Source)

The MTA Bus lanes seem to be where all of the growth in tickets are now coming from.  More details on these locations and why the growth in tickets in the future.  

Have a Ticket With an Unclear Photo of You?

What should you do when a photo enforced camera ticket has an unclear photo of you?

Those red light camera tickets you receive in the mail can be tricky to deal with. Many find themselves stuck with a ticket that says they were the driver but doesn’t actually have clear photo of the driver’s face.

If you receive a ticket in the mail that says you were the driver but it doesn’t have a clear picture of your face it can be frustrating because without a clear picture how can you even tell yourself if it was you driving? There is a way you can send in a form saying that someone else was the driver, but with a blurry picture how can you tell who it is.

You could of course go into court and let a judge see for himself that there is no possible way you could be identified as the driver based on the picture on the ticket. You could also explain to a judge that you can’t identify anyone else as the driver because of the poor picture quality. But going into court can be a hassle and scary for some, so it’s much easier to handle situations like this without going into court, with a Trial by Written Declaration. Using a Trial by Written Declaration you can explain the situation and even include a recent photograph of yourself for the judge to use as a comparison to the picture of the driver on the ticket. In situations like this there is a good chance your ticket will be dismissed.

Contributed by ticketbust.com, helping drivers contest and dismiss their traffic tickets.

Traffic Ticket Requested Information of Me

If you receive ticket a notice in the mail issued to you by a police department or even an out of state camera company what you shouldn’t do is freely give them the information requested of you. Oftentimes these notices are sent out to fish for information like your driver’s license number and to get you to tell on yourself (or someone else) for a red light violation.  These are known as snitch tickets.

A red flag should go up if you were not the driver if you don’t see a due date, a fine amount, and if you don’t see a courthouse listed on the notice. If you’re still unsure, check the notice for the city and county where the violation allegedly occurred (this will be on the front side of the notice listed along with information like the location and violation code). You can then go to the Superior court website for that county and many courts allow you to do an online search for your ticket and fine information. You may be able to search by your driver’s license, last name, or violation number. You could also try calling the court you think the ticket would have been issued in and inquire with a traffic clerk as to whether there is a ticket issued to you in their system, most likely there will not be.

If not then, in that case, the ticket hasn’t been filed or registered with the court yet so it’s not an official ticket. Before you just roll over and comply with the first notice, you may want to wait and see if you ever do get a notice from the court, because you may not. If you don’t fill out the back of the first notice and send it back to the agency requesting the information from you then they won’t have enough to pin the ticket on you and get a real ticket issued to you through the court.

If you’re not sure of how to handle a red light photo ticket notice you received, before you do anything, it’s a good idea to consult with a professional who is well seasoned with dealing with red light camera tickets. Remember, a ticket that hasn’t been filed or registered with the court yet is not an official ticket and may never become one if you don’t help them by tattling on yourself.

Contributed by ticketbust.com, helping drivers contest and dismiss their traffic tickets.

Not the Driver in the Photo Ticket?

If you’re the registered owner of a vehicle and are being asked to identify the driver pictured on a red light photo ticket you are faced with several dilemmas.

Scenario One: Know the driver but don’t want to turn them in.

Filling out the affidavit may mean turning in a friend, family member, or even your own spouse. Say the driver was your spouse, but your spouse has more points on their license than you. It may make more sense to leave the ticket in your name. Deciding on whether or not to leave a ticket in your name and choosing not to turn in the driver’s name is up to you and legally you cannot be forced to identify the driver. See California Vehicle Code Section 21455.5(c) stating there is no requirement that the defendant bears any burden of proof in defending herself against a charge for violating California Vehicle Code Sec. 21453(a).

Scenario Two: Not sure who the driver is.

On the other end of the spectrum, you may very well not know who the driver is. Maybe you own a business and the car is used as a company car. Maybe you have a large family and multiple persons had access to the car. Perhaps the valet could have driven your car without you knowing it, or your car mechanic. In this situation, you will not be able to complete an affidavit of nonliability truthfully even if you want to because there’s no way to be exactly sure who was driving your car at that exact moment in time. Many courts will be understanding especially if the picture clearly does not look like you or there is a gender mismatch, but you stand an even better chance if can back up your statement with proof. For example, find someone that is willing to testify as to your witness that the car is driven by multiple drivers and it would be impossible to tell who was driving the car at that exact time.

Scenario Three: I can’t tell if it was me or someone else driving.

The picture may be too blurry for you to be able to identify the driver. In this situation, it would be really difficult for you to complete an affidavit of non-liability because you would be taking a wild guess since you can’t make out the figure that is supposed to be a close-up of the driver. If the picture is too blurry for you to make out the driver, there’s a good chance the judge won’t be able to either and you may be home free. If the picture of the driver is too blurry, the other side won’t be able to prove that it was you driving. See California Penal Code Section 1096 states that, in a criminal proceeding, the burden of proving the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt is upon the state. - blog Submitted by ticketbust.com, helping drivers contest and dismiss their traffic tickets.

Contributed by ticketbust.com, helping drivers contest and dismiss their traffic tickets.

Top 10 Reasons Why Red Light Camera Tickets Are Not Enforced

Depending on the state, county, or province, the laws regarding red light camera ticket citations are different. Some red-light camera ticket photos can't be used or enforced for different reasons. These are the top 10 reasons for the tickets not being enforced:

1) Both images do not show vehicle through the intersection during the red light
2) Unreadable license plate due to glare, lighting or obstruction of license plate
3) No license plate or the dealer plate logo is showing from the transfer of ownership
4) Out of State plates - Not sure about this one in every State?
5) Weather-related image distortion due to rain, snow, dust or wind
6) Invalid or temporary license plates
7) No DMV match to the registered vehicle driver, some states only require a photo of the vehicle
8) Traffic signal, camera, flash malfunction
9) Poor image quality or focus
10) The driver was not you and you may submit a Declaration of Non-liability.  Snitch tickets. 

As always we would appreciate here feedback about your experiences related to the enforcement of tickets due to these circumstances and any others we are missing. We are especially curious about #4) out of State plates and the enforcement of tickets.

Please do not consider any of the information on this page as legal representative advice to be used in any court of law. PhotoEnforced.com will not be held liable for any information in this article.

Tickets Dropped Due To Blurry Face

If you received a red light camera ticket and your face appears blurry in the captured image, it's possible that the ticket could be dropped due to insufficient evidence. Red light camera tickets typically rely on clear photographic evidence, including a clear image of the driver's face, to establish the identity of the person responsible for the violation.

However, the specific outcome of your situation may vary depending on local laws, regulations, and the policies of the jurisdiction that issued the ticket. It's recommended to consult with a legal professional or the relevant local authorities to understand the options available to you and the best course of action to take.

Red Light Cameras take pictures and video of red-light runners.  However, if a positive photo ID is not obtained the ticket is usually dropped.  For example, the police must be able to match if the driver is a woman or a man and if the person is white or black.  If the image is not you that is driving in the car the police may ask you to snitch on who might have driven the vehicle and this is also called a "snitch ticket".