Receiving a red light camera ticket can be frustrating, especially if you believe it was issued in error. In Florida, red light cameras are used to monitor intersections and issue citations to drivers who run red lights. However, if you receive a ticket, you have the right to contest it. In this article, we will explore the process of fighting a red light camera ticket in Florida and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.
Understanding Red Light Camera Tickets in Florida
In Florida, red light cameras are used to monitor intersections and issue citations to drivers who run red lights. The cameras are typically installed at busy intersections and are equipped with sensors that detect when a vehicle enters the intersection after the light has turned red. If a vehicle is detected running a red light, a photo is taken of the vehicle’s license plate, and a citation is issued to the vehicle’s owner.
Types of Red Light Camera Tickets in Florida
There are two types of red light camera tickets that can be issued in Florida:
- Notice of Violation: This is the initial citation that is issued to the vehicle’s owner. It includes a photo of the vehicle’s license plate, the date and time of the violation, and the amount of the fine.
- Uniform Traffic Citation: This is a formal citation that is issued if the vehicle’s owner fails to respond to the Notice of Violation or if the owner contests the citation and is found guilty.
Contesting a Red Light Camera Ticket in Florida
If you receive a red light camera ticket in Florida, you have the right to contest it. Here are the steps you can take:
Review the Citation
Before you contest the citation, review it carefully to ensure that it is accurate. Check the following:
- License plate number: Make sure the license plate number on the citation matches the license plate number on your vehicle.
- Date and time of the violation: Make sure the date and time of the violation are accurate.
- Location of the violation: Make sure the location of the violation is accurate.
Gather Evidence
If you believe the citation was issued in error, gather evidence to support your claim. This can include:
- Photos or videos: If you have photos or videos of the intersection at the time of the alleged violation, they may be helpful in supporting your claim.
- Witness statements: If there were any witnesses to the alleged violation, their statements may be helpful in supporting your claim.
- Vehicle maintenance records: If your vehicle’s brakes or other safety features were malfunctioning at the time of the alleged violation, your vehicle maintenance records may be helpful in supporting your claim.
Request a Hearing
If you believe the citation was issued in error, you can request a hearing to contest it. You can request a hearing by mail or in person. If you request a hearing by mail, be sure to include all of the required documentation, including a copy of the citation and any evidence you have gathered.
Attend the Hearing
If you request a hearing, you will be required to attend it. At the hearing, you will have the opportunity to present your case to a judge or hearing officer. Be sure to bring all of your evidence with you to the hearing.
Defenses to Red Light Camera Tickets in Florida
There are several defenses to red light camera tickets in Florida. Here are a few:
The Vehicle Was Not Owned or Leased by the Defendant at the Time of the Alleged Violation
If the vehicle was not owned or leased by the defendant at the time of the alleged violation, the defendant may not be liable for the citation.
The License Plate Number on the Citation Is Incorrect
If the license plate number on the citation is incorrect, the citation may be invalid.
The Vehicle’s Brakes or Other Safety Features Were Malfunctioning at the Time of the Alleged Violation
If the vehicle’s brakes or other safety features were malfunctioning at the time of the alleged violation, the defendant may not be liable for the citation.
Penalties for Red Light Camera Tickets in Florida
The penalties for red light camera tickets in Florida vary depending on the circumstances of the violation. Here are the typical penalties:
- Fine: The fine for a red light camera ticket in Florida is typically $158.
- <strong.Points: A red light camera ticket in Florida is typically assessed 4 points against the defendant’s driver’s license.
- <strong.Driver’s License Suspension: If the defendant accumulates 12 or more points against their driver’s license within a 12-month period, their driver’s license may be suspended.
Conclusion
Receiving a red light camera ticket in Florida can be frustrating, but it is not the end of the world. If you believe the citation was issued in error, you have the right to contest it. By gathering evidence, requesting a hearing, and presenting your case to a judge or hearing officer, you may be able to beat the ticket. Remember to always review the citation carefully, gather evidence to support your claim, and attend the hearing prepared to present your case.
What is a red light camera ticket in Florida?
A red light camera ticket in Florida is a type of traffic citation issued to drivers who are caught running a red light by an automated camera system. These cameras are installed at intersections and capture images of vehicles that enter the intersection after the light has turned red. The images are then reviewed by law enforcement, and if the driver is found to have run the red light, a ticket is mailed to the vehicle’s registered owner.
The ticket will typically include a photo of the vehicle, the license plate number, and the date and time of the infraction. It will also include information on how to pay the fine or contest the ticket. Red light camera tickets in Florida are considered civil infractions, rather than criminal offenses, and do not result in points being assessed against the driver’s license.
Can I fight a red light camera ticket in Florida?
Yes, it is possible to fight a red light camera ticket in Florida. If you receive a red light camera ticket, you have the option to pay the fine or contest the ticket. To contest the ticket, you will need to follow the instructions provided on the ticket and submit a written explanation of why you believe the ticket was issued in error. You may also be able to request a hearing to present your case in person.
If you decide to fight the ticket, it is a good idea to review the photos and video evidence provided with the ticket to see if there are any discrepancies or errors. You may also want to gather any additional evidence that supports your case, such as witness statements or photos of the intersection. It is also recommended that you consult with a traffic attorney who can help you navigate the process and increase your chances of having the ticket dismissed.
What are the grounds for contesting a red light camera ticket in Florida?
There are several grounds for contesting a red light camera ticket in Florida. One common reason is that the camera malfunctioned or was not properly calibrated, resulting in an inaccurate reading. Another reason is that the driver was not the one who ran the red light, but rather someone else who was driving the vehicle. You may also be able to contest the ticket if you can show that you were forced to run the red light due to circumstances beyond your control, such as another vehicle cutting you off.
Additionally, you may be able to contest the ticket if you can show that the intersection was not properly marked or that the traffic signal was not functioning properly. You may also be able to contest the ticket if you can show that the ticket was not properly issued or that the fine is excessive. It is recommended that you consult with a traffic attorney to determine the best grounds for contesting your ticket.
How do I contest a red light camera ticket in Florida?
To contest a red light camera ticket in Florida, you will need to follow the instructions provided on the ticket. Typically, you will need to submit a written explanation of why you believe the ticket was issued in error, along with any supporting evidence. You may also be able to request a hearing to present your case in person.
You will need to make sure to follow the deadlines and procedures outlined on the ticket, as failure to do so may result in the ticket being upheld. It is also recommended that you consult with a traffic attorney who can help you navigate the process and increase your chances of having the ticket dismissed. The attorney can help you gather evidence, prepare your case, and represent you at the hearing.
What happens if I lose my contest of a red light camera ticket in Florida?
If you lose your contest of a red light camera ticket in Florida, you will be required to pay the fine. The fine for a red light camera ticket in Florida is typically $158, although it may be higher in some cases. You will also be required to pay any additional fees or costs associated with the ticket.
If you fail to pay the fine, you may face additional penalties, such as a suspension of your driver’s license or a warrant being issued for your arrest. It is recommended that you pay the fine promptly to avoid any additional consequences. You may also want to consider consulting with a traffic attorney to see if there are any other options available to you.
Can I appeal the decision if I lose my contest of a red light camera ticket in Florida?
Yes, you can appeal the decision if you lose your contest of a red light camera ticket in Florida. If you are not satisfied with the outcome of your contest, you have the right to appeal the decision to a higher court. The appeal process typically involves filing a written notice of appeal and paying a filing fee.
You will then have the opportunity to present your case to a judge, who will review the evidence and make a decision. It is recommended that you consult with a traffic attorney who can help you navigate the appeal process and increase your chances of having the decision overturned. The attorney can help you prepare your case, gather evidence, and represent you in court.