Traffic Camera Tickets: Are They Legit?

Camera tickets, also known as automated enforcement technology, are a way for states and local governments to enforce traffic signals and speed limits. These cameras capture violations and vehicles' license plate numbers, and the tickets they generate are often treated like parking tickets. While camera tickets are enforceable in some states, they are banned in others. In some cases, drivers can fight or mitigate their penalty, but many recipients choose to pay the fine by mail to avoid the hassle of going to court.

Camera tickets are treated like parking tickets

In New York, red light camera tickets are the 24th and 29th most ticketed violations, with nearly 70,000 issued each year. While these tickets are treated like parking tickets, there are also normal red light tickets issued by police officers, which are considered traffic tickets and can add points to your license and affect your insurance.

In Washington State, camera tickets are entirely legal and are used to detect and prevent speeding, running red lights, or passing stopped school buses. While recipients can choose to pay the fine by mail to avoid going to court, they also have the option to fight or mitigate their penalty. If a driver wants to contest a camera ticket, they can request a hearing and check the video evidence affiliated with their infraction. They may also submit a declaration of non-responsibility if they were not the driver at the time of the incident.

While camera tickets are generally treated like parking tickets in these locations, it's important to note that specific regulations and enforcement methods may vary by state and local laws.

They don't appear on your driving record

While many states use traffic cameras to enforce traffic laws, the practice is highly controversial, raising questions about public safety, privacy, and drivers' rights. Camera tickets are typically issued for speeding or running a red light. In most states, these camera tickets are treated like non-moving violations, similar to parking tickets or tickets for expired registration.

In most cases, camera tickets do not result in points being added to your driving record. Non-moving violations, such as parking tickets, are typically not included in your driving record. Only a few states, namely Arizona, California, and Oregon, treat photo tickets as moving violations, which can lead to points on your license and increases in your insurance rates.

The impact of a camera ticket on your driving record depends on your state's laws. In Louisiana, for example, convictions from camera enforcement do not become part of a person's driving record. It's important to understand your local laws to know how these tickets are handled in your state or jurisdiction.

Even if a camera captures a violation, there may be ways to contest the ticket. For instance, you can argue that you ran a red light to avoid an accident or that the camera was malfunctioning. Consulting a traffic attorney can help you navigate these situations and protect your rights as a driver.

While camera tickets may not appear on your driving record in most states, it's still essential to address these citations promptly. Ignoring a traffic ticket can lead to hefty fines or even an arrest. Understanding the specific laws and regulations in your state can help you effectively handle any camera tickets you may receive.

You can fight a camera ticket

Yes, you can fight a camera ticket. While many states use traffic cameras to enforce traffic laws, the practice is controversial, raising questions about public safety, privacy, and drivers' rights. If you've received a camera ticket, don't panic. Here are some steps and strategies to help you fight it:

Understand Your Local Laws

Firstly, it's essential to understand your state's specific laws regarding traffic camera enforcement. Each state has different regulations, and knowing your rights is crucial. Some states ban automated traffic cameras, while others allow local governments to set up their own camera programs. Understanding the legal basis for camera enforcement in your area will help you build a stronger case.

Review the Evidence

When you receive a camera ticket in the mail, it typically includes photos and a web address to view the video footage. Carefully examine this evidence, as it can play a crucial role in your defence. Sometimes, the photos and videos may not clearly show a violation, or there might be issues with the signage indicating the presence of cameras. These factors can work in your favour when contesting the ticket.

Identify Defences and Strategies

There are several potential defences you can use when fighting a camera ticket:

• Wrong Driver: In most states, it's the driver, not the vehicle owner, who is liable for the violation. If you weren't driving at the time, you can submit an affidavit stating so, which often leads to the dismissal of the ticket.
• No Violation: Ensure the photos and videos clearly show that a violation occurred. Sometimes, the camera systems or reviewers make mistakes, and the evidence may not conclusively prove that you broke the law.
• Signage Issues: Some states require specific signage to be posted at intersections with red-light cameras. If the required signage is missing or inadequate, you may have a valid defence.
• Blurry Photo: If the photo doesn't clearly show your vehicle, licence plates, or yourself, you can argue that there is insufficient proof that it was you or your car at the time of the alleged violation.
• Camera Reliability: The prosecution must prove that the camera was functioning correctly at the time the photo was taken. If they cannot provide sufficient evidence of the camera's accuracy, their case may weaken.
• No Intent: In certain emergency situations, such as rushing to a hospital or preventing a serious traffic accident, you can argue that you did not intentionally run a red light.

Consult a Lawyer

Fighting a camera ticket can be complex, and it's easy to get overwhelmed. Consider consulting a knowledgeable camera ticket lawyer who understands the local traffic court system and can guide you through the process. They can help you build a strong defence and protect your rights.

Remember, while these strategies provide a starting point for fighting a camera ticket, the specific laws and defences vary by state. Always review your local regulations and seek legal advice when needed.

Cameras are placed at school zones, red lights, and intersections

The use of traffic cameras to enforce road rules is a highly controversial practice. While some states have banned automated traffic cameras, others have embraced their use, particularly in school zones, at red lights, and at intersections.

School Zones

In New York City, for example, speed cameras operate in 750 school zones 24 hours a day, seven days a week, all year round. The city issues tickets to the owners of vehicles travelling over the speed limit in these zones. The fines from these tickets contribute to the city's comprehensive plan to eliminate traffic deaths and serious injuries. Similarly, Spokane, Washington, has implemented a Photo-Speed Traffic Program that places 3D radar or an Inductance Loop System at seven schools. The primary goal of this program is to use automated enforcement cameras to reduce speeds in school zones, thereby reducing the risk of serious injuries or fatalities from collisions with children.

Red Lights

Spokane has also installed Photo-Red cameras at ten intersections in the city to reduce the number of red-light violations. These cameras capture two images when a vehicle fails to completely stop before crossing the stop line: the first as the vehicle approaches the intersection, and the second as it goes through. The data is then reviewed by trained officers in the Spokane Police Department Traffic Section, who authorize the issuance of citations.

Intersections

In addition to reducing red-light violations, the presence of enforcement cameras at intersections in Spokane has also resulted in a decrease in accidents. The fines collected from these violations go towards supporting neighborhood traffic calming and safety improvement projects.

Some states ban camera tickets

The use of traffic cameras to enforce speed limits and traffic signals is a highly controversial practice. While some states allow their use, others have implemented bans and restrictions on automated traffic cameras.

States that ban camera tickets

Montana, Mississippi, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, West Virginia, and Wisconsin have all prohibited the use of automated enforcement systems to issue tickets. In these states, traffic camera tickets are not enforceable.

New Mexico has banned traffic cameras on state and federal roads, but local governments can choose to use them, as seen in Albuquerque.

New Jersey has also ended its automated traffic enforcement pilot program, discontinuing the use of red light cameras.

Arkansas prohibits the use of traffic cameras except in limited circumstances, such as school zones, railroad crossings, and highway work zones when a police officer is present.

Nevada has a similar approach, only permitting traffic cameras inside a law enforcement vehicle or facility or when hand-held by an officer.

New Hampshire prohibits most types of highway surveillance systems, while Maine restricts traffic cameras to toll monitoring systems only.

Understanding state-specific laws

It is important to understand the specific laws of your state regarding traffic camera restrictions. Consulting with a local traffic ticket attorney can help you navigate the legal complexities and protect your rights.

Frequently asked questions