Can You Fight a Red Light Camera Ticket?

 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:

1. Review the photo and video evidence (usually online)

2. Check your state/local traffic laws

3. Gather documents: proof of car sale, identity theft report, etc.

4. 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.

How to Fight a Red Light Camera Ticket

 Red light camera tickets are automated, but that doesn’t mean they’re always accurate. If you recently received one in the mail, don’t rush to pay it — you may have options.

What to Check First:

• Date and location of the violation

• Photo or video evidence — most systems provide online access

• License plate match — is it your car?

• Who was driving? (You may not be liable)

Legal Grounds to Dispute:

• The yellow light timing was too short

• You were making a legal right turn on red

• You were not the driver

• Camera calibration or signage didn’t meet state law

How to Contest:

1. File a dispute with the traffic court

2. Request the full video evidence

3. Bring proof (dashcam footage, driver testimony)

4. Consider hiring a traffic lawyer for best results

Penalties If You Don’t Respond:

• Increased fines

• Possible license suspension

• Impact on insurance

Pro Tip: Some cities offer ticket forgiveness for first-time offenders or will dismiss the fine with traffic school.