Are Red Light Camera Tickets Enforceable In Florida
Red light cameras are installed at intersections to deter and catch drivers who violate traffic rules. When a driver runs a red light or stops beyond the limit line, a flash goes off and a ticket is issued automatically to the registered owner of the vehicle. However, there is often confusion about the legality and enforceability of these tickets. If you've received a red light camera ticket in Florida, you may be wondering whether you should pay it or fight it in court.
What are red light camera tickets?
Red light camera tickets are issued when a vehicle enters an intersection after the light has turned red. The cameras capture an image of the vehicle's license plate, and the registered owner of the vehicle is sent a ticket in the mail. The ticket includes a fine and a deadline to pay or contest the violation.
Are red light camera tickets enforceable in Florida?
Yes, red light camera tickets are enforceable in Florida. The state has laws that authorize the use of red light cameras, and the tickets are treated as civil fines. However, the laws also provide options for drivers to challenge the tickets in court.
How can you fight a red light camera ticket in Florida?
If you want to contest a red light camera ticket in Florida, you have a few options:
- Request a hearing: You can request a hearing with a traffic hearing officer within 60 days of receiving the ticket. The hearing will be conducted in person, by phone, or by mail, and you can present evidence and argue your case.
- File a written appeal: If you disagree with the outcome of the hearing, you can file a written appeal with the district court within 30 days of the decision.
- Pay the fine: If you don't contest the ticket or if your challenge is unsuccessful, you must pay the fine by the deadline on the ticket. Failure to pay can result in additional fees or even a suspension of your driver's license.
What are some defenses for red light camera tickets?
If you are trying to fight a red light camera ticket in Florida, you may be able to use one of these defenses:
- Technicality: You can argue that the camera or the ticketing system was not working properly, or that the image is too blurry to identify the driver.
- Necessity: You can argue that you had to run the red light to avoid harm to yourself or others.
- Mistake of fact: You can argue that the light was green, or that you did not realize you were running a red light.
What are the consequences of not paying a red light camera ticket in Florida?
If you do not pay a red light camera ticket in Florida, the consequences can include:
- Additional fees: Late fees may be added to the original ticket amount.
- Registration hold: Your vehicle registration may be placed on hold, preventing you from renewing your registration or transferring ownership of the vehicle.
- Collection action: The unpaid ticket may be sent to a debt collection agency, which can report it to credit bureaus and pursue legal action to collect the debt.
Conclusion
Red light camera tickets are enforceable in Florida, but drivers have options for challenging them. If you receive a ticket, you should carefully review the details and consider whether it is worth it to fight it in court. Whatever you decide, be sure to pay the fine by the deadline to avoid additional fees and penalties.