Camera Ticket Dispute: Proving Your Innocence

If you've received a camera ticket but you weren't the person driving, you may be able to provide the name of the driver to avoid paying a fine. This is because, in some places, the law puts the blame on the driver, not the owner of the vehicle. However, you are not legally obliged to identify the driver, and in some places, such as California, you can even contest the ticket by mail.

The ticket was sent to the owner of the car, not the driver

If you have received a camera ticket, it's important to first check the date, time, and location of the ticket. Camera tickets are sent to the owner of the car, not the driver, so make sure that you were actually driving the car when the ticket was issued.

Generally, the prosecutor must prove that you were driving in that location at that date and time. If someone else borrowed your car, you cannot be prosecuted. However, in some states, such as New York, red-light camera tickets are treated like parking violations, holding registered owners liable rather than the driver. Make sure to check the red-light law in the jurisdiction where you got the ticket.

If you were driving your car, try to reconstruct the scene and write down any details you remember. For example, you may have been making a legal right turn on red when the camera took the photo. If you were making a legal manoeuvre, you should be able to get the ticket dismissed.

If you were not driving the vehicle when the alleged violation occurred, you may be able to file a Declaration of Non-Responsibility online. This is a sworn statement under penalty of perjury that the vehicle was not in your care, custody, or control at the time of the violation.

The photo is blurry and doesn't show the license tag clearly

If you've received a camera ticket, you can dispute it in court by arguing that the photo is blurry and doesn't show the license tag clearly. Here are some steps you can take to build your case:

• Examine your ticket: Check the date, time, and location of the alleged violation. Also, verify that all the information on the ticket, such as your name and address, is accurate and complete.
• Contact the issuing agency: Only the agency that issued the ticket, such as the local police department, can verify its authenticity. Have your citation number ready when you contact them.
• Understand the arraignment process: The arraignment is when you will be asked to identify yourself and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or guilty with explanation. This is not the same as a court hearing, and you will not present your evidence at this time.
• Prepare your defence: If you plead not guilty, you will need to appear in court and present your defence. Study the photo evidence and identify any discrepancies, such as an unclear license plate or a blurred image that doesn't show the driver. You can also visit the scene of the alleged violation to take notes and gather additional evidence.
• Request production of documents: Contact the local police department or law enforcement agency to request copies of the photos and any other evidence they plan to use against you. You can also ask for maintenance records for the camera and traffic light system to establish their accuracy and reliability.
• Research applicable laws: Look for cases in your city or county regarding traffic cameras and their legality. There may be specific rules about warning signs, speed limits, or other factors that could help your defence.
• Attend your court hearing: Arrive at the courthouse on time and be prepared to spend the day there. When it's your turn, identify yourself and present your case to the judge, highlighting any discrepancies and providing your evidence.

The photo doesn't show you in the driver's seat

If the photo doesn't show you in the driver's seat, you can argue that the prosecution can't prove you were driving, or has no evidence that you were driving. This will get you off the hook if you live in a jurisdiction that requires tickets to follow the driver, not the registered owner of the car.

You can also ask to have your case dismissed if the photograph of the driver is blurred or unclear, to the point that the driver's identity remains in question.

Even if it is clear from the photograph that you are not the individual driving the vehicle, you will unfortunately still need to appear in court several times in order to have your name cleared.

The camera wasn't functioning properly

If you're dealing with a malfunctioning backup camera, there are several potential reasons for this, including faulty wiring or connections, a broken camera, software failures, or external factors such as weather conditions. Here are some detailed explanations and instructions to help you diagnose and address the issue:

Faulty Wiring or Connection

The backup camera issue could be related to faulty or damaged wiring. Over time, wires can become cut, frayed, or disconnected, interrupting the transmission of data. To address this, carefully inspect the wiring for any signs of damage and ensure that all connections are secure. If you notice any issues, have a professional repair or replace the affected wires.

Broken Camera

It is possible that the backup camera itself is broken. This could be due to a cracked or scratched lens, or damage to internal components such as the image sensor. If you suspect the camera is broken, try gently cleaning the lens with a soft cloth. If the issue persists, you may need to have the camera professionally repaired or replaced.

Software Failures

Software failures, such as bugs in the embedded system, incomplete updates, or corrupt files, can render your backup camera useless. To address this, you may need to employ the expertise of a software engineer or a technician with coding skills to fix the software issues. They can also help predict software failures and implement preventative measures.

Environmental Influences

Environmental factors, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, and moisture, can also impact the performance of your backup camera. For example, extreme temperatures can damage electronic components, while dirt and moisture can obscure the lens. To mitigate these issues, consider using a camera cover or housing to protect it from the elements. Additionally, regular cleaning and maintenance of the camera lens can help ensure clear visuals.

Remember, if you're unsure about the cause of the issue or how to fix it, it's always best to consult a professional technician or mechanic who can accurately diagnose and address the problem. They will have the knowledge and tools to get your backup camera functioning properly again.

You weren't driving the vehicle when the image was taken

If you weren't driving the vehicle when the image was taken, you can file a sworn statement, known as a Declaration of Non-Responsibility, stating that the vehicle was not in your care, custody, or control at the time of the violation. This can be done online, or by mail, email, or fax. You do not need to submit any information regarding who was driving the car at the time of the offence.

In Seattle, you can file a Declaration of Non-Responsibility online. This is a sworn statement under penalty of perjury that the vehicle was not in your care, custody, or control at the time of the violation.

In King County, you can complete and mail in an Affidavit of Non-Responsibility, selecting one of the following three options:

• Your car was stolen (you must include a copy of the police report)
• Your car was sold to someone else (you must include a copy of the sale documents)
• Your car was under the "care, custody, or control" of another person

Frequently asked questions