Receiving a camera ticket in the mail can be frustrating, especially if you’re unsure about the validity of the citation or the laws surrounding it. In Colorado, camera tickets are issued for various traffic infractions, including speeding, running red lights, and failure to stop at stop signs. But do you have to pay camera tickets in Colorado? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of camera tickets, exploring the laws, regulations, and options available to you.
Understanding Camera Tickets in Colorado
Camera tickets, also known as photo enforcement tickets, are issued by automated cameras that capture images of vehicles committing traffic infractions. These cameras are typically installed at intersections, highways, and school zones to monitor and enforce traffic laws. In Colorado, camera tickets are issued by local law enforcement agencies, such as the Denver Police Department or the Colorado State Patrol.
Types of Camera Tickets in Colorado
There are two main types of camera tickets in Colorado:
- Red Light Camera Tickets: These tickets are issued when a vehicle runs a red light or fails to come to a complete stop before turning right on red.
- Speed Camera Tickets: These tickets are issued when a vehicle exceeds the posted speed limit in a designated speed zone.
How Camera Tickets are Issued
When a vehicle commits a traffic infraction, the camera captures an image of the vehicle’s license plate and a photo of the driver (if possible). The camera also records the date, time, location, and speed of the vehicle (if applicable). The images and data are then reviewed by law enforcement personnel, who verify the infraction and issue a ticket to the vehicle’s registered owner.
Do You Have to Pay Camera Tickets in Colorado?
In Colorado, camera tickets are considered civil infractions, not criminal offenses. This means that you won’t face jail time or points on your driver’s license for a camera ticket. However, you are still required to respond to the ticket and either pay the fine or contest it.
Consequences of Not Paying a Camera Ticket
If you fail to respond to a camera ticket or don’t pay the fine, you may face additional consequences, including:
- Increased Fines: The fine for the original infraction may be increased, and additional fees may be added.
- Collection Agency Involvement: The city or state may send your account to a collection agency, which can negatively impact your credit score.
- License Suspension: In extreme cases, your driver’s license may be suspended or revoked if you accumulate multiple unpaid camera tickets.
Options for Contesting a Camera Ticket
If you believe you received a camera ticket in error or want to contest the citation, you have several options:
- Request a Hearing: You can request a hearing with a judge or hearing officer to present your case and argue against the ticket.
- Submit Evidence: You can submit evidence, such as photos or witness statements, to support your claim that the ticket was issued in error.
- Take a Defensive Driving Course: In some cases, you may be eligible to take a defensive driving course to dismiss the ticket.
How to Pay a Camera Ticket in Colorado
If you decide to pay a camera ticket, you can do so online, by mail, or in person. Here are the steps to follow:
- Online Payment: Visit the website of the issuing agency (e.g., Denver Police Department) and follow the prompts to pay your ticket online.
- Mail Payment: Send a check or money order to the address listed on the ticket, making sure to include the ticket number and your name.
- In-Person Payment: Visit the issuing agency’s office during business hours to pay your ticket in person.
Payment Options and Fees
When paying a camera ticket, you may be required to pay additional fees, such as:
- Processing Fees: A fee for processing the payment, which can range from $2 to $5.
- <strong)Late Fees: A fee for late payment, which can range from $10 to $25.
Table: Camera Ticket Fines and Fees in Colorado
| Infraction | Fine | Processing Fee | Late Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red Light Camera Ticket | $75 | $2 | $10 |
| Speed Camera Ticket (1-9 mph over limit) | $50 | $2 | $10 |
| Speed Camera Ticket (10-19 mph over limit) | $100 | $2 | $10 |
Conclusion
Receiving a camera ticket in Colorado can be frustrating, but it’s essential to understand the laws and regulations surrounding these citations. While you are required to respond to a camera ticket, you have options for contesting the citation or paying the fine. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can navigate the process and avoid additional consequences. Remember to always follow traffic laws and regulations to avoid receiving a camera ticket in the first place.
Additional Resources
For more information on camera tickets in Colorado, visit the following resources:
- Colorado Department of Revenue: https://www.colorado.gov/revenue
- Denver Police Department: https://www.denvergov.org/content/denvergov/en/police-department.html
- Colorado State Patrol: https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/csp/home
What is a camera ticket in Colorado?
A camera ticket in Colorado is a type of traffic citation issued to drivers who are caught violating traffic laws by automated cameras. These cameras are typically installed at intersections to monitor drivers who run red lights or speed through school zones. When a driver commits a traffic infraction, the camera captures a photo of the vehicle’s license plate, and a ticket is mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle.
Camera tickets in Colorado are issued by local law enforcement agencies, and the fines associated with them can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the type of infraction. In some cases, camera tickets may also result in points being assessed against the driver’s license.
Do I have to pay a camera ticket in Colorado?
In Colorado, camera tickets are considered civil infractions, and drivers are not required to pay them. However, if a driver chooses not to pay a camera ticket, they may face additional penalties, such as late fees and increased fines. Additionally, if a driver ignores a camera ticket, it may not affect their driving record or insurance rates.
If a driver decides to contest a camera ticket, they can request a hearing with the court. To contest a camera ticket, the driver must submit a written request to the court within a specified timeframe, usually 20-30 days from the date the ticket was issued. The driver will then be scheduled for a hearing, where they can present evidence and argue their case.
How do I pay a camera ticket in Colorado?
To pay a camera ticket in Colorado, drivers can follow the instructions provided on the ticket or contact the court directly. Most courts in Colorado offer online payment options, as well as payment by phone, mail, or in person. Drivers can also pay camera tickets at designated payment locations, such as the courthouse or a local police station.
When paying a camera ticket, drivers should make sure to include the ticket number and their name to ensure that the payment is processed correctly. It’s also a good idea to keep a record of the payment, including the date and amount paid, in case of any disputes or errors.
Can I contest a camera ticket in Colorado?
Yes, drivers in Colorado can contest a camera ticket by requesting a hearing with the court. To contest a camera ticket, the driver must submit a written request to the court within a specified timeframe, usually 20-30 days from the date the ticket was issued. The driver will then be scheduled for a hearing, where they can present evidence and argue their case.
During the hearing, the driver can present evidence, such as photos or witness statements, to challenge the ticket. The driver can also argue that the camera was malfunctioning or that the ticket was issued in error. If the driver is successful in contesting the ticket, the court may dismiss the ticket or reduce the fine.
What are the consequences of not paying a camera ticket in Colorado?
If a driver chooses not to pay a camera ticket in Colorado, they may face additional penalties, such as late fees and increased fines. In some cases, the court may also send the ticket to a collections agency, which can negatively impact the driver’s credit score.
Additionally, if a driver ignores a camera ticket, they may be subject to a license suspension or revocation. In Colorado, drivers who accumulate too many unpaid camera tickets may be considered a “habitual traffic offender” and face more severe penalties, including the loss of their driver’s license.
Can I appeal a camera ticket in Colorado?
Yes, drivers in Colorado can appeal a camera ticket if they are not satisfied with the outcome of the initial hearing. To appeal a camera ticket, the driver must submit a written request to the court within a specified timeframe, usually 10-20 days from the date of the hearing.
During the appeal process, the driver can present new evidence or argue that the court made an error in its decision. The appeal will be reviewed by a higher court, which may uphold or overturn the original decision. If the driver is successful in appealing the ticket, the court may dismiss the ticket or reduce the fine.
How do I find out if I have a camera ticket in Colorado?
To find out if you have a camera ticket in Colorado, you can contact the court or check online. Most courts in Colorado offer online search tools that allow drivers to look up their ticket status by entering their name, license plate number, or ticket number.
Drivers can also contact the court directly to inquire about any outstanding camera tickets. The court may require the driver to provide their name, license plate number, or other identifying information to verify their identity and look up their ticket status.