Red light camera tickets have caused motorists more frustration than tickets issued for just about every other moving violation. Years ago, most recipients would just pay the associated fines to make the tickets go away. But today, more and more people consider red light tickets to be unfair and even unconstitutional.
They’re going to court to fight them. And importantly, they’re seeing success.
If you’ve received a red light ticket because a camera supposedly caught you violating the law, don’t simply pay the fine. You can fight the ticket and keep your driving record clean.
Notice Of Violation Vs. A Moving Violation Ticket
The first item you’ll receive in the mail is a Notice of Violation. It generally arrives within 30 days of the alleged offense. The Notice of Violation isn’t a ticket. Your driving record isn’t affected by it. Moreover, if you pay the corresponding fine (typically $158), your insurance rates are unlikely to increase.
If you refuse to pay the fine, the state of Florida will issue a formal moving violation ticket regarding the alleged offense. It will impose a larger fine (typically $277) and you’ll be given 60 days to pay it.
What To Do When You Receive A Red Light Ticket
What you do at that point ultimately determines the ticket’s impact on your driving record and insurance rates. Most people capitulate. They give in and pay the fines. The problem with doing so is that it guarantees the offense will show up on their driving records. When their auto insurers check their records, they’re likely to increase their rates.
A better course of action is to contest the ticket. Hire a law firm with experience in fighting red light camera tickets and go to court. Your attorney may be able to get the citation dismissed. A dismissal would not only help to keep your driving record clean, but also prevent your auto insurance rates from climbing as the result of a conviction.
Skubiak & Rivas, longtime Florida traffic defense attorneys, have more than 40 years of combined experience handling thousands of cases for their clients. If you’ve received a Notice of Violation or a red light ticket in the mail, contact us today. Call 407-894-4449 for a free, private consultation.
