Do Red-Light Cameras Affect Insurance In Washington State?

In Washington State, automated safety camera tickets are issued for two types of violations: speeding in school zones and failure to stop at a traffic light. These camera tickets are treated as non-moving violations, equivalent to parking tickets, and are not reported to insurance companies. They do not affect a person's driver's license status or result in any points. The only consequence of a camera ticket is the fine, which is similar to a parking ticket fine. Therefore, camera tickets in Washington State do not impact insurance rates or driving records.

Camera tickets are treated as parking tickets

In Washington State, camera tickets are typically issued in two situations: speeding in school zones and failure to stop at a traffic light. These tickets are legal and are supported by photographs and video evidence. The areas utilizing cameras to issue tickets must display a notice or sign visible to the public, warning drivers that enforcement cameras are in use.

When a camera violation occurs, a notification is mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle within 14 days of the violation. If the vehicle is rented, the notification must include the name and address of the renter. The registered owner of the vehicle is presumed to be the driver at the time of the infraction, but this presumption can be overcome by submitting a written statement or testimony under oath that another person was in control of the vehicle.

While camera tickets do not affect insurance rates or driving records, failure to pay the fine can result in collections action and a hold on registering your vehicle. Therefore, it is important to address camera tickets promptly and either pay the fine or contest the ticket through a hearing if there are valid reasons for doing so.

They don't affect your driving record

In Washington State, camera tickets are treated like parking tickets and do not affect your driving record. They are also not reported to insurance companies or the Washington Department of Licensing. This means that red-light tickets and school zone tickets issued by an automated camera do not affect a person's driver's license status.

Camera tickets are only issued in two situations: speeding in school zones and failure to stop at a traffic light. They are not considered moving violations, which are infractions related to the act of driving, such as speeding or running a red light. Moving violations can increase your insurance rate, whereas non-moving violations, like parking tickets, usually don't affect your insurance rate.

While camera tickets do not impact your driving record or insurance rates, you are still required to pay the fine. Failure to pay can result in a collections action and a hold on registering your vehicle. Additionally, if there are any outstanding parking violations or other civil penalties owed, you will not be able to renew your vehicle's registration or tabs.

It's important to note that the registered owner of the vehicle is presumed to be the driver at the time of the infraction. However, this presumption can be overcome by filing an affidavit stating that the vehicle was in the control of another person. You are not required to identify the actual driver unless you are a rental car company or a legal entity that needs to report this information.

They don't increase your insurance rate

In Washington State, automated safety camera tickets are legally equivalent to parking tickets. They are not reported to insurance companies or the Washington Department of Licensing. This means that red light camera tickets and school zone tickets issued by an automated camera do not affect a person's driver's license status or insurance rate in any way. The only negative consequence of receiving a camera ticket is the fine, which is treated like a parking ticket.

While a speeding ticket may raise your insurance rate, as can other moving violations like running a red light, camera tickets are not considered moving violations in most states. Instead, they are treated like non-moving violations, such as parking tickets, tickets for expired registration, or tickets for a broken taillight. These types of violations typically do not affect your insurance rate.

It is important to note that while camera tickets do not increase insurance rates, they can still have other consequences. For example, failure to pay a camera ticket can result in a collections action and a hold on registering your vehicle. Additionally, there is a legal presumption that the registered owner of the vehicle was the driver at the time of the infraction. While this presumption can be overcome by filing an affidavit stating otherwise, providing false information under penalty of perjury is a serious offense.

You can still contest a camera ticket

In Washington State, camera tickets are treated as parking tickets and do not appear on your driving record. This means they will not be reported to insurance companies and will not affect your insurance rates. However, if you receive a camera ticket, you are still responsible for the infraction and will have to pay a fine. If you don't pay the ticket, it could result in a collections action and a hold on your vehicle registration.

While camera tickets typically don't have significant consequences, you may still want to contest a ticket if you believe you were not at fault. Here are some things to keep in mind if you find yourself in this situation:

Request a Hearing:

The ticket you receive should include instructions on how to request a hearing to contest the ticket. This request typically must be made within 33 days of receiving the ticket. At the hearing, you can present your case and argue that the ticket should be reduced or dismissed.

Common Reasons for Contesting:

There are several valid reasons why you might contest a camera ticket. For example, you may argue that you were not the person driving the vehicle at the time of the infraction. In Washington State, there is a legal presumption that the registered owner of the vehicle was the driver. However, this presumption can be overcome by filing an affidavit or providing testimony stating that someone else was in control of the vehicle. Additionally, you are not required to identify the actual driver unless you are a rental car company or a similar legal entity.

Another reason to contest a ticket could be malfunctioning equipment. If you believe that the traffic signal or camera equipment was not functioning properly, you may be able to get the ticket dismissed or reduced.

Consult an Attorney:

While it may not be necessary in all cases, consulting an attorney can be helpful. An experienced attorney will be familiar with the court system and will know how to navigate similar tickets. They may be able to spot a reason for dismissal or provide a convincing argument for reduction or dismissal to the prosecutor or judge.

Mitigation Option:

In some cases, you may have the option to submit your case for mitigation. This involves admitting the infraction and requesting that the judge lower the fine. This can be a more cost-effective option than fighting the ticket in court, especially if the ticket will not have a significant impact on your driving record or insurance rates.

Remember, each case is unique, and it's always a good idea to understand your options and seek appropriate advice before making any decisions.

You can avoid a camera ticket fine by driving safely

Overview

It's important to understand how red-light camera tickets are issued in Washington State. These tickets are only given in two situations: speeding in school zones and failure to stop at a traffic light. The ticketed driver will receive a notification in the mail, including photographs and a web address to view the video footage.

No impact on insurance or driving record

It's important to know that automated safety camera tickets in Washington State are legally equivalent to parking tickets. They do not get reported to insurance companies or the Washington Department of Licensing. Therefore, they will not affect your insurance rates or driving record. The only negative consequence of a red-light camera ticket is the fine you have to pay.

How to avoid a camera ticket

The best way to avoid a camera ticket is to drive safely and obey traffic laws. This includes coming to a complete stop at red lights and obeying speed limits, especially in school zones. By following the rules of the road, you can avoid receiving a camera ticket in the first place.

Additionally, always be aware of your surroundings when driving. Pay attention to signage that may indicate the presence of red-light cameras or speed monitoring systems. This way, you can take extra care in these areas to avoid inadvertently breaking any traffic rules.

What to do if you receive a camera ticket

If you do receive a camera ticket, there are a few steps you can take to dispute it:

• Examine the ticket details: Check the date, time, and location of the ticket. Confirm that you were indeed driving the car when the ticket was issued.
• Review the photos and videos: The ticket should include clear images of your car and license plate. If the photos are blurry or unclear, this can be a basis for disputing the ticket.
• Identify possible defences: Look into the specific laws and requirements in your state or city. For example, some states require warning signs to be posted near red-light cameras. If these signs are missing or obscured, it could be a valid defence.
• Plead not guilty: If you believe you have a valid defence, you can plead not guilty and request a formal hearing to dispute the ticket.
• Research and build your case: Study the applicable laws and previous cases to identify any potential loopholes or defences. You can also request maintenance records for the camera system to ensure it was functioning properly.
• Present your defence in court: Arrive at your hearing organised and well-prepared. Treat courthouse staff with respect and present your case calmly and professionally.

Frequently asked questions