Receiving a red light camera ticket can be frustrating, especially if you believe it was issued in error. If you’re a Florida driver who has received one of these tickets, you may be wondering if you can simply ignore it and hope it goes away. However, ignoring a red light camera ticket in Florida is not a recommended course of action.
Understanding Red Light Camera Tickets in Florida
Before we dive into the consequences of ignoring a red light camera ticket, it’s essential to understand how these tickets work in Florida. Red light cameras are automated systems that capture images of vehicles that run red lights. These cameras are typically installed at intersections with high accident rates or where drivers frequently run red lights.
In Florida, red light camera tickets are considered civil infractions, not criminal offenses. This means that you won’t face jail time or points on your license for running a red light, but you will be required to pay a fine.
How Red Light Camera Tickets Are Issued in Florida
When a vehicle runs a red light, the camera captures a photo of the vehicle’s license plate and a video of the incident. The images and video are then reviewed by law enforcement or a third-party vendor to determine if a violation occurred. If a violation is confirmed, a ticket is mailed to the vehicle’s registered owner.
Consequences of Ignoring a Red Light Camera Ticket in Florida
Ignoring a red light camera ticket in Florida can lead to serious consequences. If you fail to respond to the ticket or pay the fine, you may face additional penalties, including:
- Increased Fines: The original fine for a red light camera ticket in Florida is typically $158. However, if you ignore the ticket, the fine can increase to $262 or more.
- Collection Agency Fees: If you ignore the ticket, the city or county may send your account to a collection agency. This can result in additional fees, which can increase the amount you owe.
- Credit Reporting: Unpaid red light camera tickets can be reported to the credit bureaus, which can negatively impact your credit score.
- License Suspension: If you accumulate multiple unpaid red light camera tickets, your driver’s license may be suspended.
What Happens If You Ignore a Red Light Camera Ticket and Get Pulled Over?
If you ignore a red light camera ticket and get pulled over by a law enforcement officer, you may face additional consequences. The officer may:
- Issue a New Ticket: If you’re pulled over and the officer discovers that you have an outstanding red light camera ticket, you may receive a new ticket for the original offense.
- Impound Your Vehicle: In some cases, the officer may impound your vehicle if you have multiple unpaid red light camera tickets.
Options for Dealing with a Red Light Camera Ticket in Florida
If you receive a red light camera ticket in Florida, you have several options for dealing with it:
- Pay the Fine: You can pay the fine online, by mail, or in person. Make sure to follow the instructions on the ticket carefully to avoid any additional fees.
- Contest the Ticket: If you believe the ticket was issued in error, you can contest it. You’ll need to submit a written explanation and any supporting evidence to the city or county that issued the ticket.
- Request a Hearing: If you’re not satisfied with the outcome of your contest, you can request a hearing. This will give you the opportunity to present your case to a judge or hearing officer.
How to Contest a Red Light Camera Ticket in Florida
To contest a red light camera ticket in Florida, you’ll need to follow these steps:
- Review the Ticket: Carefully review the ticket to ensure that all the information is accurate. Check the date, time, location, and license plate number to ensure that they match your vehicle and the incident.
- Gather Evidence: Collect any evidence that supports your claim, such as:
- Photos or videos of the incident
- Witness statements
- Maintenance records for your vehicle
- Submit a Written Explanation: Write a clear and concise explanation of why you believe the ticket was issued in error. Be sure to include any supporting evidence.
- Submit Your Contest: Mail or email your contest to the city or county that issued the ticket. Make sure to follow the instructions on the ticket carefully to avoid any additional fees.
Conclusion
Ignoring a red light camera ticket in Florida is not a recommended course of action. The consequences of ignoring a ticket can be serious, including increased fines, collection agency fees, credit reporting, and license suspension. If you receive a red light camera ticket, it’s essential to take action promptly. You can pay the fine, contest the ticket, or request a hearing. By understanding your options and taking the right course of action, you can avoid additional penalties and protect your driving record.
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Pay the Fine | Pay the original fine of $158 online, by mail, or in person. |
| Contest the Ticket | Submit a written explanation and supporting evidence to contest the ticket. |
| Request a Hearing | Request a hearing to present your case to a judge or hearing officer. |
By taking the right course of action, you can avoid the consequences of ignoring a red light camera ticket in Florida. Remember to always follow the instructions on the ticket carefully and seek legal advice if you’re unsure about how to proceed.
What happens if I ignore a red light camera ticket in Florida?
Ignoring a red light camera ticket in Florida can lead to additional penalties and fines. If you fail to respond to the ticket or pay the fine, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) will send you a second notice with an additional $25 late fee. If you continue to ignore the ticket, the FLHSMV may place a hold on your driver’s license and vehicle registration.
It is essential to address the ticket promptly to avoid further complications. You can either pay the fine, contest the ticket, or request a hearing to dispute the citation. Ignoring the ticket may seem like an easy way out, but it can lead to more severe consequences, including increased fines, court costs, and even a suspended license.
Can I contest a red light camera ticket in Florida?
Yes, you can contest a red light camera ticket in Florida. If you believe the ticket was issued in error or you have a valid reason for running the red light, you can request a hearing to dispute the citation. You will need to submit a written request for a hearing within 30 days of receiving the ticket. You can also hire an attorney to represent you at the hearing.
During the hearing, you will have the opportunity to present your case and provide evidence to support your claim. The hearing officer will review the evidence and make a decision. If the hearing officer rules in your favor, the ticket will be dismissed, and you will not be required to pay the fine. However, if the hearing officer upholds the ticket, you will be required to pay the fine and any additional costs.
How do I pay a red light camera ticket in Florida?
To pay a red light camera ticket in Florida, you can visit the website of the local clerk of court or the FLHSMV website. You will need to enter your ticket number and license plate number to access your ticket information. You can pay the fine online using a credit or debit card. You can also pay by mail by sending a check or money order to the address listed on the ticket.
It is essential to pay the fine promptly to avoid additional penalties and late fees. Make sure to keep a record of your payment, including the date and amount paid. If you are unable to pay the fine online or by mail, you can also pay in person at the local clerk of court office.
Will a red light camera ticket in Florida affect my insurance rates?
A red light camera ticket in Florida may affect your insurance rates, depending on your insurance company’s policies. Some insurance companies may consider a red light camera ticket a minor infraction and not increase your rates. However, other insurance companies may view it as a more serious offense and increase your rates.
It is essential to check with your insurance company to determine how a red light camera ticket will affect your rates. You can also shop around for insurance quotes to compare rates and find the best option for your situation. Keep in mind that a red light camera ticket can also lead to points on your license, which can increase your insurance rates.
Can I request a hearing to dispute a red light camera ticket in Florida?
Yes, you can request a hearing to dispute a red light camera ticket in Florida. To request a hearing, you will need to submit a written request to the local clerk of court within 30 days of receiving the ticket. You can also hire an attorney to represent you at the hearing.
During the hearing, you will have the opportunity to present your case and provide evidence to support your claim. The hearing officer will review the evidence and make a decision. If the hearing officer rules in your favor, the ticket will be dismissed, and you will not be required to pay the fine. However, if the hearing officer upholds the ticket, you will be required to pay the fine and any additional costs.
How long do I have to respond to a red light camera ticket in Florida?
You have 30 days to respond to a red light camera ticket in Florida. You can either pay the fine, contest the ticket, or request a hearing to dispute the citation. If you fail to respond within 30 days, the FLHSMV will send you a second notice with an additional $25 late fee.
It is essential to respond promptly to avoid additional penalties and late fees. Make sure to keep a record of your response, including the date and method of response. If you are unsure about how to respond or need more time, you can contact the local clerk of court for assistance.
Can I appeal a red light camera ticket in Florida?
Yes, you can appeal a red light camera ticket in Florida. If you are not satisfied with the outcome of the hearing, you can appeal the decision to the county court. You will need to file a written appeal within 30 days of the hearing officer’s decision.
During the appeal, you will have the opportunity to present your case and provide evidence to support your claim. The county court will review the evidence and make a decision. If the county court rules in your favor, the ticket will be dismissed, and you will not be required to pay the fine. However, if the county court upholds the ticket, you will be required to pay the fine and any additional costs.