Dennis Hammett
Red light cameras are a common feature in Illinois, particularly in the Chicago area, and are used to catch drivers who run red lights. While these cameras are intended to improve road safety, they can also result in costly tickets for drivers. If you've received a camera ticket in Illinois, you may be wondering if there are any ways to beat it. The good news is that there are a few strategies you can try, such as reviewing the evidence and looking for discrepancies or contesting the ticket through the city's administrative hearing process. However, acting quickly is crucial, as you typically have a limited amount of time to respond to the ticket and ignoring it can lead to additional fines and penalties.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ticket Price | $100 |
| Late Payment Price | $200 |
| Boot Fee | $60-$400 |
| Towing Charge | $150 for vehicles weighing less than 8,000 pounds; $250 for vehicles weighing more |
| Storage Fee | $20 per day for the first five days, then $35 per day |
| Time to Pay Ticket | 30 days |
| Time to Contest Ticket | 7 days |
| Time to Receive Ticket After Violation | 5-7 days |
What You'll Learn
Review evidence and check for errors
When issued with a red light camera ticket in Illinois, you have the option to contest it. Here are some steps to take when reviewing the evidence and checking for errors:
Check the Details
Check that all the information on the ticket is correct. Any discrepancies in the details could be a part of your defence. For example, if the make of your vehicle is listed incorrectly, or you can't tell the make of the vehicle in the photo or video evidence, this could be grounds for contesting the ticket.
Review the Video Evidence
The City of Chicago provides access to the video evidence of your violation. Review this footage carefully and look for any reasons or excuses that could be part of your defence. For example, if you were forced to stop in the middle of an intersection due to icy roads or an incompetent driver behind you, this could be grounds for contesting the ticket.
Check for Allowed Defences
The City of Chicago has a list of allowed defences that you should review when planning your defence. For example, if the facts alleged in the violation notice are inconsistent or do not support a finding that the Chicago Municipal Code was violated, this could be a valid defence.
Act Quickly
It's important to act quickly, as you only have 21 days from the Notice of Violation date on the ticket to contest it. If you do not respond within this timeframe, you may be found liable by default, and the penalty will double after 25 days.
Gather Supporting Evidence
If you choose to contest the ticket, you may be given the opportunity to present your case at an in-person hearing. Bring any evidence you wish to be considered, such as police reports, registration documents, receipts, and pictures.
Understand the Limitations
It's important to note that while you can review the evidence and check for errors, successfully contesting a red light camera ticket in Illinois can be challenging. These tickets are typically considered strong evidence of a violation, and it can be difficult to have them overturned.
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Contest the ticket by mail, online, or request an in-person hearing
If you want to contest a camera ticket in Illinois, you must act quickly. You only have seven days from the date the ticket is issued to contest it. You can do this by mail, online, or by requesting an in-person hearing.
To contest by mail, fill out the request for an in-person hearing on the ticket envelope or return the envelope provided with the mailed Notice of Violation and your written defense. You can also contest by mail by including any other excuse, such as inconsistent or unsupported facts in the violation notice.
To contest online, go to the City's website and click on the link for submitting a hearing request. Follow the instructions to request an in-person hearing.
To request an in-person hearing, call the City of Chicago's Ticket Helpline at 312.744.PARK (7275). You will receive a notice in the mail informing you of the date and time of your hearing. Bring any relevant evidence to the hearing, such as police reports, registration documents, receipts, and pictures.
It's important to note that if you choose to ignore a camera ticket in Illinois, you will face additional fines and penalties. The original fine will increase, and you could also face vehicle seizure. Therefore, it's in your best interest to take action and contest the ticket if you believe you have a valid defense.
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Understand the difference between red light and traffic data cameras
In Illinois, red light cameras are automated ticket-issuing systems that are placed at busy intersections. They are mounted on traffic lights and are designed to detect when a motorist enters the intersection on a red light. If a violation is detected, the camera will take multiple images of the car during the process of the violation. The images will show the vehicle's license plates, driver, and offense. A few weeks later, the motorist will receive a ticket in the mail.
Traffic data cameras, on the other hand, are used to collect data and optimize traffic signal timing. They are installed to find out and perfect the timing of traffic signal lights. While these cameras may look similar to red light cameras, they are not used for issuing tickets. They are typically mounted on traffic signals or lights, and are used to collect data and improve traffic flow.
Red light cameras are placed at busy intersections to detect and deter motorists from running red lights. The cameras are usually bulkier, with a large camera box and two external flashes mounted separately on poles. There are often multiple red light cameras at each intersection to capture angles from multiple directions.
Traffic data cameras, on the other hand, are typically smaller and cylindrical or dome-shaped, enclosed in a weatherproof housing. They are mounted on top of traffic signals or on high light poles above roadways. These cameras are not tied to any enforcement system, and the video footage is generally not archived or used for incident reconstruction.
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Know the penalties for ignoring a ticket
While you might be tempted to ignore a red-light camera ticket in Illinois, doing so can bring on several consequences and penalties. Firstly, it's important to understand that these tickets are issued by automated cameras mounted at busy intersections, and the footage they capture can be incriminating. While you might not face immediate repercussions for ignoring the ticket, the fines will only increase over time.
- Fines will increase: The original fine for a red-light camera ticket in Illinois is typically $100. However, if you ignore the ticket and fail to pay by the due date, this amount will increase. You could end up paying double the original amount, which means a fine of $200.
- Vehicle seizure: The city of Chicago has the authority to boot and seize your vehicle if you do not respond to or pay the ticket on time. This means you will have to pay additional fees to get your vehicle back, including towing charges and storage fees.
- Administrative violation: While a red-light violation is not considered a moving violation that goes on your driving record, it is still an administrative violation similar to a parking ticket. Ignoring multiple tickets could accumulate and result in further consequences.
- Additional fees: In addition to the increased fine, you may also be subject to various additional fees and charges. These can include a boot fee ranging from $60 to $400, towing charges, and daily vehicle storage costs.
- Difficulty in disputing the ticket: While you have the option to dispute a red-light camera ticket, your chances of success are slim. The camera footage is challenging to refute, and the city of Chicago makes it difficult to contest these tickets.
In conclusion, ignoring a red-light camera ticket in Illinois can lead to several penalties and consequences. It is always advisable to address the ticket and pay the citation as soon as possible to avoid these additional fines and difficulties. While it might seem inconvenient, taking care of the ticket promptly will save you money and potential legal troubles in the long run.
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Consult a lawyer
If you've received a red light camera ticket in Illinois, consulting a lawyer is a good idea, especially if you've been charged with a reckless driving offense or if your violation has resulted in the injury or death of another person. Here's why:
Specialized Legal Knowledge
Attorneys with experience in this area of law can help you navigate the complex legal landscape and protect your rights. They understand the nuances of traffic laws and can provide valuable insights into the specific circumstances of your case.
Fighting the Charges
A lawyer can help you build a solid defense strategy and fight the charges being brought against you. They can review the evidence, including camera footage, and identify any discrepancies that may work in your favor. With their expertise, they can guide you through the process and improve your chances of a favorable outcome.
Administrative and Legal Procedures
Knowing the legal procedures is crucial when dealing with red light camera tickets. An attorney can help you adhere to important timelines, such as the deadline to contest your ticket or the statute of limitations for initiating a claim. They will also advise you on how to respond to the citation to avoid additional fines and penalties, such as vehicle seizure.
Record Clearance
In some cases, a red light camera ticket may result in demerit points being added to your driving record. An attorney can advise you on how to keep the conviction off your record, such as through traffic school, and help you understand the point system and how to reduce points.
Compensation and Insurance
If your red light violation has resulted in an accident, a lawyer can help you navigate the insurance claims process and ensure you receive fair compensation for any injuries or damages. They can deal with the insurance companies on your behalf and represent you in court if necessary.
Free Consultations
Many law firms offer free initial consultations, giving you the opportunity to understand your legal options and make an informed decision without any financial commitment.
In summary, consulting a lawyer when dealing with a red light camera ticket in Illinois can provide you with expert guidance, improve your chances of a favorable outcome, and help protect your legal rights.
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Frequently asked questions
A red light camera ticket is a citation issued to a driver who fails to stop at a red light. In Illinois, these tickets are issued by automated cameras that are mounted at intersections.
You can fight a red light camera ticket by reviewing the evidence, checking for discrepancies, and contesting the ticket by mail, online, or by requesting an in-person hearing. You only have 21 days from the Notice of Violation date to contest the ticket.
If you ignore a red light camera ticket in Illinois, you may face additional fines, vehicle seizure, and other penalties. The city of Chicago can also boot and seize your vehicle if the ticket is not paid on time.
The fine for a red light camera ticket in Illinois is typically $100. If you choose to ignore the ticket, the fine will increase to $200. In addition, you may have to pay towing charges and storage fees if your vehicle is impounded.
