What is a red light camera ticket?
As straightforward as it sounds, a red light camera is triggered when a driver enters an intersection while a red light is present. As a result a ticket is issued to the vehicle at fault.
How do red light camera tickets work?
All intersections where a red light camera is present will have relevant signage so that the driver will know that these sorts of traffic cameras are there.
A camera is then triggered by a sensor that is triggered as the vehicle enters the intersection on a red light. The camera captures a photo of the vehicle as it illegally enters the intersection, the photo is used to help authorities legally enforce that traffic law and a ticket is issued to the vehicle shortly after the occurrence.
The photo will capture the driver and the vehicle license plates, in some instances the camera will also record a video and may also be able to detect if the vehicle was speeding as well.
Are red light cameras good at preventing accidents?
Simple answer, yes and the data backs it up.
As with any traffic law it is made with the intention of keeping drivers and pedestrians alike as safe as possible and this is no different with red light cameras.
You will usually find a red light camera installed on intersections that have historically been a hot spot for accidents and collisions. In some areas where a red light camera has been installed, statistics show that accidents and collisions have been reduced by up to ~40%, a resounding success in reducing the number of fatal accidents.
Do you get demerit points from a red light camera ticket?
No, you cannot get demerit points on your license from a red light camera ticket.
This is because a ticket from a red light camera is the only type of ticket where the ticket is not issued to the driver but in fact it is issued to the vehicle, by way of license plate. It is issued to the vehicle instead as there are many instances where the driver cannot be positively identified from the photograph or video.
How much is a red light camera ticket?
Within Ontario, if you are caught going through a red light camera you can expect a fine of up to $325 but at least you will receive no demerit points.
How to fight a red camera ticket?
You could potentially be able to reduce the amount of your fine by disputing the ticket. This is a common tactic from many drivers as it is not associated with the driver and merely the vehicle.
However, given the nature of the ticket which is considered to be very dangerous it is unlikely you will receive a heavy discount but these reductions are decided on a case by case basis.
Is my car insurance affected if I get a red light camera ticket?
Fear not, your car insurance is not affected if you receive a red light camera ticket.
As mentioned these types of traffic tickets are not associated with the driver and only the vehicle so your car insurance won’t increase if you get a ticket from a red light camera.