Receiving a red light camera ticket can be a frustrating experience, especially if you’re unsure about the process and the potential consequences. In Washington, red light cameras are used to monitor intersections and capture images of vehicles that run red lights. If you’ve received a red light camera ticket in Washington, it’s essential to understand the process, the fines, and the potential impact on your driving record.
How Red Light Cameras Work in Washington
Red light cameras in Washington are typically installed at busy intersections to monitor traffic and capture images of vehicles that run red lights. These cameras use sensors to detect when a vehicle enters the intersection after the light has turned red. When a vehicle is detected, the camera takes a photo of the vehicle’s license plate and a video of the incident. The images and video are then reviewed by law enforcement to determine if a citation should be issued.
Types of Red Light Camera Tickets in Washington
There are two types of red light camera tickets that can be issued in Washington:
- Infraction: This type of ticket is issued when a vehicle is detected running a red light, but the driver is not considered to be reckless or negligent. The fine for an infraction is typically lower than for a more serious offense.
- Reckless Driving: This type of ticket is issued when a vehicle is detected running a red light in a reckless or negligent manner. The fine for reckless driving is typically higher than for an infraction, and it can also result in the suspension of the driver’s license.
How Much is a Red Light Camera Ticket in Washington?
The cost of a red light camera ticket in Washington varies depending on the type of ticket and the location where it was issued. Here are some general guidelines on what you can expect to pay:
- Infraction: The fine for an infraction red light camera ticket in Washington is typically around $124. However, this amount can vary depending on the location and the specific circumstances of the incident.
- Reckless Driving: The fine for a reckless driving red light camera ticket in Washington is typically around $550. However, this amount can also vary depending on the location and the specific circumstances of the incident.
| Location | Infraction Fine | Reckless Driving Fine |
|---|---|---|
| Seattle | $124 | $550 |
| Spokane | $124 | $550 |
| Tacoma | $124 | $550 |
Additional Fees and Penalties
In addition to the fine, you may also be required to pay additional fees and penalties, such as:
- Court costs: These are fees associated with the administration of the court system. They can range from $20 to $50.
- Penalty assessments: These are additional fees that are assessed on top of the fine. They can range from 10% to 50% of the fine.
- Insurance increases: If you receive a red light camera ticket, your insurance rates may increase. The amount of the increase will depend on your insurance company and your driving record.
How to Contest a Red Light Camera Ticket in Washington
If you receive a red light camera ticket in Washington, you have the right to contest it. Here are the steps you can take:
- Review the citation: Carefully review the citation to ensure that it is accurate and complete.
- Gather evidence: Gather any evidence that may support your case, such as photos or witness statements.
- Request a hearing: Request a hearing with the court to contest the citation.
- Attend the hearing: Attend the hearing and present your case to the judge.
Defenses to a Red Light Camera Ticket
There are several defenses you can use to contest a red light camera ticket in Washington, including:
- The camera was malfunctioning: If you can prove that the camera was malfunctioning, you may be able to have the citation dismissed.
- The citation was not properly served: If you can prove that the citation was not properly served, you may be able to have it dismissed.
- You were not the driver: If you can prove that you were not the driver of the vehicle, you may be able to have the citation dismissed.
Conclusion
Receiving a red light camera ticket in Washington can be a frustrating experience, but it’s essential to understand the process and the potential consequences. By knowing how much a red light camera ticket costs and how to contest it, you can make informed decisions about your case. Remember to always follow the rules of the road and drive safely to avoid receiving a red light camera ticket in the first place.
Additional Resources
If you have received a red light camera ticket in Washington, there are several resources available to help you navigate the process. Here are a few:
- Washington State Department of Licensing: The Washington State Department of Licensing website provides information on traffic laws and regulations, as well as resources for contesting a citation.
- Washington State Courts: The Washington State Courts website provides information on the court system and the process for contesting a citation.
- Red Light Camera Laws: The Red Light Camera Laws website provides information on red light camera laws and regulations in Washington and other states.
What is a red light camera ticket in Washington?
A red light camera ticket in Washington 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 to capture images of vehicles that enter the intersection after the light has turned red. The cameras use sensors to detect when a vehicle has entered the intersection and then take a photo of the vehicle’s license plate.
The ticket is then mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle, along with a photo of the vehicle and the license plate. The ticket will also include information about the date, time, and location of the infraction, as well as the amount of the fine. In Washington, the fine for running a red light is typically $124.
How do red light cameras work in Washington?
Red light cameras in Washington use a combination of sensors and cameras to detect and capture images of vehicles that run red lights. The sensors are usually installed in the road and detect when a vehicle has entered the intersection after the light has turned red. When a vehicle is detected, the camera takes a photo of the vehicle’s license plate and a second photo of the vehicle in the intersection.
The cameras are typically triggered by a vehicle’s speed and distance from the intersection. If a vehicle is traveling at a speed that indicates it will not be able to stop before the light turns red, the camera will be triggered. The cameras are also equipped with flash units to illuminate the license plate and vehicle at night.
What are the penalties for running a red light in Washington?
The penalties for running a red light in Washington include a fine of $124, as well as the possibility of having the infraction reported to the driver’s insurance company. In addition, if a driver accumulates multiple traffic infractions, including red light camera tickets, they may be subject to increased insurance rates or even license suspension.
It’s worth noting that running a red light is considered a moving violation in Washington, and as such, it can have serious consequences. If a driver is involved in an accident while running a red light, they may be held liable for damages and injuries. Additionally, if a driver is found to have been reckless or negligent while running a red light, they may face more severe penalties, including increased fines and even jail time.
Can I contest a red light camera ticket in Washington?
Yes, it is possible to contest a red light camera ticket in Washington. If a driver believes that the ticket was issued in error, they can request a hearing to contest the citation. To contest a red light camera ticket, the driver will need to submit a written request for a hearing within 15 days of receiving the ticket.
At the hearing, the driver will have the opportunity to present evidence and argue their case. The hearing will be conducted by a judge or a hearing examiner, who will review the evidence and make a decision. If the driver is found not guilty, the ticket will be dismissed, and the fine will be waived. However, if the driver is found guilty, they will be required to pay the fine and may also face additional penalties.
What are the defenses to a red light camera ticket in Washington?
There are several defenses that a driver may use to contest a red light camera ticket in Washington. One common defense is that the driver was not the one driving the vehicle at the time of the infraction. If the driver can provide evidence that someone else was driving the vehicle, the ticket may be dismissed.
Another defense is that the camera malfunctioned or was not properly calibrated. If the driver can provide evidence that the camera was not functioning correctly, the ticket may be dismissed. Additionally, if the driver can show that they were forced to run the red light due to circumstances beyond their control, such as another vehicle cutting them off, the ticket may be dismissed.
How do I pay a red light camera ticket in Washington?
To pay a red light camera ticket in Washington, the driver can follow the instructions on the ticket. The ticket will include information about how to pay the fine, including the amount of the fine and the deadline for payment. The driver can pay the fine online, by mail, or in person at a designated payment location.
It’s worth noting that if the driver fails to pay the fine by the deadline, they may face additional penalties, including increased fines and even a warrant for their arrest. Additionally, if the driver is found to have ignored the ticket, they may face more severe consequences, including license suspension and increased insurance rates.
What happens if I ignore a red light camera ticket in Washington?
If a driver ignores a red light camera ticket in Washington, they may face serious consequences. If the driver fails to pay the fine or respond to the ticket, the court may send a notice of delinquency to the driver. If the driver still fails to respond, the court may issue a warrant for their arrest.
Additionally, if the driver ignores the ticket, they may face increased fines and penalties, including license suspension and increased insurance rates. Ignoring a red light camera ticket can also lead to a negative impact on the driver’s credit score and may even result in the driver’s license being suspended or revoked.