Red Light Camera Ticket In Los Angeles County
Running a red light in Los Angeles County is a common problem that can result in a hefty fine and points on your driving record. To combat this issue, several cities and intersections in Los Angeles County have installed red light cameras that capture photographic evidence of drivers running red lights. While this technology has helped curb red light violations, receiving a red light camera ticket can be confusing and stressful. This article will provide you with everything you need to know about red light camera tickets in Los Angeles County.
What Is A Red Light Camera Ticket?
A red light camera ticket is a citation issued to a driver for running a red light at an intersection equipped with a red light camera. The ticket consists of photographic evidence of the driver's vehicle crossing the intersection after the traffic signal has turned red. Once the ticket is issued, it is sent to the registered owner of the vehicle, who is responsible for either paying the fine or contesting the citation.
How Does A Red Light Camera Work?
A red light camera is a camera installed at an intersection that captures photographic evidence of drivers who run red lights. When the traffic light turns red, the camera is activated and begins recording. If a driver crosses the intersection after the light has turned red, the camera captures an image of the vehicle's license plate and the driver's face. This evidence is then used to issue a citation to the registered owner of the vehicle.
How Much Is A Red Light Camera Ticket In Los Angeles County?
The cost of a red light camera ticket in Los Angeles County varies depending on the city in which the violation occurred. In most cities, the fine is $480. However, some cities, like Beverly Hills, have fines that can reach up to $700. The amount of the fine does not increase if you contest the citation and lose.
How To Pay A Red Light Camera Ticket
Once you have received a red light camera ticket, you have several options for payment. You can pay online, by mail, or in person. To pay online, you will need your citation number and your license plate number. If you choose to pay by mail, you must include a check or money order for the full amount of the fine. If you choose to pay in person, you can pay at the courthouse listed on your citation.
How To Contest A Red Light Camera Ticket
If you believe you were wrongly issued a red light camera ticket, you have the right to contest the citation. You can contest the ticket by mail or in person. To contest the ticket by mail, you must fill out a form that is included with the citation and mail it to the address listed on the form. If you choose to contest the ticket in person, you will need to appear in court on the date listed on your citation.
What Are Your Chances Of Winning A Red Light Camera Ticket Case?
The chances of winning a red light camera ticket case in Los Angeles County are slim. According to the Judicial Council of California, approximately 80 percent of drivers who contest a red light camera ticket in California lose their case. However, it is still worth contesting the citation if you believe you were wrongly issued the ticket.
Can You Ignore A Red Light Camera Ticket In Los Angeles County?
Ignoring a red light camera ticket in Los Angeles County is not recommended. If you do not respond to the citation, your fine will increase and a hold will be placed on your driver's license. In extreme cases, your vehicle registration may be suspended or a lien may be placed on your property.
Conclusion
Receiving a red light camera ticket in Los Angeles County can be a frustrating experience. However, by understanding how red light cameras work, how to pay or contest a ticket, and the consequences of ignoring a citation, you can minimize the impact of a red light camera violation on your driving record and finances.