Florida Red-Light Camera Tickets: Are They Enforceable?

Red-light cameras are a common sight at intersections across Florida, capturing images of drivers who fail to stop at a red light. If you receive a red-light camera ticket in the mail, you may wonder whether you are legally required to pay the fine or if you have the option to fight it. While Florida law allows the use of red-light cameras, their enforcement has been challenged in court, and some cities have stopped using them altogether. Understanding how these tickets work, whether they are enforceable, and what legal options you have can help you decide whether to pay or contest the violation.

Are Red-Light Camera Tickets Legally Enforceable?

Red-light camera tickets are enforceable in Florida, but their legality has been widely argued. The Florida Supreme Court ruled in 2018 that red-light cameras are constitutional, allowing local governments to continue using them. However, enforcement varies across the state. Some cities and counties use them extensively, while others choose not to adopt them at all.

If you receive a Notice of Violation, you have the option to pay the fine or contest it. If ignored, the violation can escalate into a formal traffic citation, increasing penalties and making it more difficult to dispute. While these tickets do not add points to your driving record, failure to address them can lead to late fees and collections. It is vital to respond to these notices, even if you believe you have done nothing wrong.

Should I Pay the Ticket?

It is never a good idea to ignore a ticket from a Florida red light camera. This process might not feel fair, but there are additional consequences that can come into play if you fail to respond at all, including additional fees and collection efforts.

However, you are also under no obligation to pay a ticket without challenging it first. With the help of a criminal defense attorney, you can contest the ticket in an effort to avoid a mark on your record. Simply paying the ticket is an admission of guilt, which leads to a traffic conviction on your record. Let our attorneys advise you of your options.

Methods for Contesting Tickets

There are ways to fight these tickets, but doing so without a lawyer can be a mistake. An attorney can ensure you make the most of your opportunity to challenge the ticket. Some common strategies include claiming someone else was driving, providing evidence that you were responding to an emergency, or highlighting that your license plate was obstructed, resulting in a false identification of your vehicle.

Learn More About Red-Light Camera Tickets in Florida

Red-light camera tickets are more than a nuisance, and they should not be ignored. In fact, your best bet might be to challenge them in court. Reach out to Difilippo & Pica, PLLC, today to discuss your options.