Traffic Camera Violations: Insurance Impact In Rhode Island

Traffic camera citations are a contentious issue in Rhode Island, with some people expressing anger and concern about their use and the involvement of private companies. While these tickets can result in fines, they are generally considered non-moving violations, similar to parking tickets, and do not affect insurance rates or driving records. However, there are exceptions in a few states, such as Arizona, California, and Oregon, where red light camera tickets are treated as moving violations and can impact insurance premiums. In Rhode Island, a red light camera violation incurs an $85 fine, but it is not considered a moving violation, so insurance rates are typically unaffected.

Traffic camera violations are non-moving infractions in Rhode Island

However, it is important to note that unpaid camera tickets can result in a hold on your registration renewal or your car being booted. Additionally, while traffic camera violations do not affect insurance rates in Rhode Island, there are a few states in the US where they are considered moving violations and can result in insurance increases. These states include Arizona, California, and Oregon.

They are treated like parking tickets

In Rhode Island, traffic camera citations are considered non-moving infractions, similar to parking tickets. This means that they will not affect your driving record or license, and your insurance company cannot hold a speed camera ticket against you. These tickets are issued when a camera catches a traffic violation, such as speeding or running a red light.

While these tickets do not result in points on your license, it is important to pay them or contest them in court to avoid further consequences. Failing to address these tickets can result in a hold on your registration renewal or even your car being booted. Additionally, while they do not directly impact insurance rates, they can still be costly, with fines of up to $85 for red-light camera violations in Rhode Island.

It is worth noting that some states, such as Arizona, California, and Oregon, do consider red-light camera tickets as moving violations, which can result in points on your license and increases in insurance rates. However, in Rhode Island, these tickets are specifically classified as non-moving violations, so they will not affect your insurance rates.

Overall, while traffic camera violations in Rhode Island can result in fines, they are treated like parking tickets and do not impact your driving record or insurance rates.

They do not add points to your license

Traffic camera violations in Rhode Island do not add points to your license. This is because they are considered non-moving violations, similar to parking tickets, or tickets for an expired registration or a broken tail light. In fact, by law, your insurance company cannot hold a speed camera ticket against you.

In most states, red light camera tickets won't raise your insurance rates. However, there are a few exceptions. In Arizona, California, and Oregon, for example, red light camera tickets are treated as moving violations, which can result in points on your license and higher insurance rates.

In Rhode Island, a red light camera ticket will typically result in a fine of $85, but it won't affect your insurance rates. The state considers these tickets to be non-moving violations, so they won't add points to your license or impact your driving record.

It's important to note that while traffic camera tickets don't add points to your license in Rhode Island, they can still have some consequences. For example, if you don't pay the ticket, you may face late fees or other penalties. Additionally, multiple unpaid tickets could result in a hold on your vehicle registration or even the booting of your car.

You can fight a traffic camera ticket in court

If you've received a traffic camera ticket, you may be able to fight it in court. Here are some steps you can take to dispute the ticket:

Examine your ticket

Check the date, time, and location of the ticket. Since camera tickets are sent to the owner of the car, make sure you were actually driving the car when the ticket was issued. If someone else was driving, you may not be liable. Also, make sure you understand the code section you're cited for violating, including any associated penalties.

Plead not guilty

You can typically plead not guilty by mail, online, or in person at an arraignment. Pleading not guilty means you cannot pay the fine listed on the ticket. Instead, you'll request a formal hearing or trial.

Gather evidence

Request copies of any photos or videos associated with your ticket. Review the footage to confirm that it's your car in the image and that the photo is clear. You can also visit the scene of the alleged violation to take notes, such as the timing of the traffic light. If there are discrepancies between the footage and your observations, this may help your case.

Research applicable laws

Look for cases in your city or county regarding traffic cameras. Also, research any specific rules about warning signs, speed limits, or other defences that may apply in your situation.

Attend your hearing

Arrive at the courthouse on the day of your hearing with copies of any documents you intend to use as evidence. Treat the judge and courthouse staff with respect, and listen quietly while the prosecutor presents their case.

Present your defence

You can challenge the admissibility of the photograph as hearsay or assert your right to confront witnesses. You can also dispute the authenticity of the photograph by arguing that the prosecution cannot prove the camera, traffic light, or speed detection system was functioning properly. Additionally, if the photos are clear but don't show you driving, you can argue that the prosecution cannot prove you were the driver.

The fine for a red light camera violation in Rhode Island is $85

In Rhode Island, the fine for a red light camera violation is $85. This is a civil penalty, and by law, it cannot be used to affect your insurance rates. In most states, red light camera tickets are treated like non-moving violations, similar to parking tickets or tickets for expired registration. These types of violations do not result in points on your driver's license or increases in your insurance rates.

In Rhode Island, traffic camera citations are specifically excluded from consideration as moving violations. This means that these citations will not be included on your driving record and cannot be used for insurance rating purposes when providing motor vehicle insurance coverage. The law also states that the imposition of a penalty for a traffic camera violation is not considered a criminal conviction for the owner or operator of the vehicle.

It's important to note that while the fine for a red light camera violation in Rhode Island is $85, there may be additional fees or surcharges associated with the citation. For example, if you choose to pay the fine online using a credit card, there could be a "convenience" fee added to the total amount. Additionally, if you decide to contest the citation in court, there may be legal costs or other associated fees.

While the fine itself may not directly impact your insurance rates, it's worth noting that insurance companies may have their own policies and guidelines regarding traffic violations. It's always a good idea to review your insurance policy and understand any potential consequences or surcharges that could arise from a traffic violation, even if it's a non-moving violation like a red light camera ticket.

Additionally, while the fine amount is standardized, the overall consequences of a red light camera violation can vary depending on other factors. For example, if you have multiple violations or other traffic infractions on your record, the impact on your driving privileges or insurance could be more significant. It's always a good idea to practice safe driving habits and adhere to traffic laws to avoid any potential complications or financial burdens associated with traffic violations.

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