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:
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The driver isn’t you
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The vehicle was stolen or loaned
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You made a legal right turn on red
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The image/video is blurry or unclear
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The yellow light timing was too short
Steps to Fight the Ticket:
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Review the photo and video evidence (usually online)
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Check your state/local traffic laws
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Gather documents: proof of car sale, identity theft report, etc.
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Request a court hearing before the deadline
Legal Defenses That Work:
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Mistaken identity
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Technical errors with the camera
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Emergency circumstances
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Poor signage or visibility
What Happens If You Ignore It?
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Additional fines
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License suspension
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Collection efforts
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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.