Red light cameras are installed to enforce traffic laws — but they’re not perfect. If you’ve received a ticket in the mail, you can challenge it, and in many cases, you may succeed.
Common Reasons to Dispute a Red Light Camera Ticket:
- The driver isn’t you
- The vehicle was stolen or loaned
- You made a legal right turn on red
- The image/video is blurry or unclear
- The yellow light timing was too short
Steps to Fight the Ticket:
- Review the photo and video evidence (usually online)
- Check your state/local traffic laws
- Gather documents: proof of car sale, identity theft report, etc.
- Request a court hearing before the deadline
Legal Defenses That Work:
- Mistaken identity
- Technical errors with the camera
- Emergency circumstances
- Poor signage or visibility
What Happens If You Ignore It?
- Additional fines
- License suspension
- Collection efforts
- Possible court judgment
Tip: In some areas, red light camera tickets are civil (not criminal) and may not affect your driving record — but check your state rules.