Running red lights is a reckless decision that endangers not only the driver but also the lives of others on the road and around them, including pedestrians and bicyclists. To help prevent and deter drivers from engaging in these dangerous behaviors, red light cameras have become a modern tool for enforcing traffic laws and holding drivers accountable. 

In California, these cameras are strategically placed at intersections to capture photos of drivers running red lights and penalize them. They are especially helpful when running a red light results in a car accident. The alarming statistics from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) highlight the importance of California’s red light camera location. They reported that there were around 116,000 injuries and 928 fatalities caused by red-light running crashes in the U.S. in 2020 alone. Currently, city and local governments in 23 states, including California and specifically San Bernardino, have installed red light camera programs to help deter drivers from this hazardous behavior and enhance road safety. 

If you are searching for an experienced San Bernardino accident lawyer to help you fight a red light camera ticket, contact the Gold Firm at 909-308-1118 for a consultation. 

What Are California Red Light Cameras?

A red light camera is a traffic enforcement tool used in various states at intersections to monitor and record vehicles that run red lights. In San Bernardino, and most other cities throughout California, these cameras are connected to sensors embedded in the road. When a vehicle crosses the intersection while the light is red, the sensor is triggered. When the sensor is triggered, it causes the camera to take a photo of the vehicle’s license plate and the driver. The camera flashes as the car passes through the intersection, capturing the necessary evidence, and often times the driver sees the flash as well. It’s also important to note that these cameras will photograph drivers when they make illegal right turns when there are signs saying it is prohibited. This is considered running a red light due to the signage saying making a right on red is illegal. 

California Red Light Camera Location

In California, red light cameras are strategically placed at most intersections where traffic lights are present, ensuring comprehensive coverage across high-traffic areas. These cameras are typically mounted right next to the stop light on top of the pole, and positioned at a downward angle that allows them to capture clear images of both the driver and the vehicle’s license plate. Red light cameras work in tandem with sensors that are embedded in the road. This setup ensures that the camera captures precise images, which are then used to document the incident and identify the vehicle involved.

How Much Is A Red Light Camera Ticket?

The cost of a red light ticket in California can vary due to a combination of the base fine and additional fees and surcharges. Depending upon the type of red light infraction, the fine will also vary. For running straight through a solid or flashing red light, the base fine is $100 but can go up to $500. 

If a driver makes an illegal right turn at a red light, the base fine is $35, and the same amount applies to running a stop sign. However, it’s important to note that these base fines are just the starting point, and are not the total of the fine you must pay. Various fees and surcharges can significantly increase the total amount owed for a red light camera ticket, making the overall cost of a red light violation much higher than the base fine alone. On average, the surcharges and fees required on top of the base fee can range between $100 and $500. 

Do I Have To Pay A Red Light Ticket If Someone Else Was Driving My Car?

If someone else was driving your vehicle when a red light camera ticket was issued, you are not automatically responsible for paying a red light ticket. In California, the ticket is only valid if the red light camera captures a clear photo of the driver’s face, either through the windshield or a side window. This rule is in place to ensure the correct individual is held accountable. While red light camera photos are not made public, you can request to view the photo associated with the red light ticket, which will allow you to verify whether it was your car and if you were driving at the time of the violation.

Can I Fight A Red Light Camera Ticket?

Yes, it is possible to fight a red light camera ticket in California. There are several arguments you can use to contest the citation. One approach is to challenge the clarity of the photo taken by the red light camera. If the photo doesn’t clearly show a violation, or if it fails to properly identify you as the driver, you may be able to have the red light camera ticket dismissed. Additionally, you can argue that the red light camera was falsely triggered. This can be done by looking at the time stamp for the photo, as sometimes the ticket will tell you when the red light turned and when the photo was taken. This may prove that you in fact did not run the red light.

Another strategy is to examine the signage related to the red light camera. California law requires that warning signs be posted near intersections with red light cameras, notifying drivers of the red light camera. These signs must be clearly visible to drivers and appropriately located. If the warning signs are missing, unclear, or improperly placed, they could be used as a strong argument when contesting the ticket.

You might also be able to argue that you ran the red light out of necessity, such as to avoid an accident. This may be considered a justifiable reason for the violation. While red light cameras are designed to enforce traffic laws, they can make mistakes, so it’s important to carefully review all the evidence if you plan to contest a ticket.

Contact an Experienced San Bernardino Red Light Camera Ticket Lawyer Near You

If you are searching for an experienced San Bernardino accident lawyer to help you fight a red light camera ticket, contact the Gold Firm at 909-308-1118 for a consultation.