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Getting a Red Light Camera Ticket
Red light cameras are installed at intersections to catch drivers who run red lights. These automated systems take clear pictures of vehicles that enter the intersection after the light has already turned red.
The camera activates when a vehicle crosses the stop line after the light turns red. If your vehicle triggers the system, two high-resolution photos are taken. The first one shows your vehicle just before entering the intersection, while the second photo, taken two or three seconds later, proves that the vehicle continued through. These images record your vehicle’s speed and the duration of the red light when you entered the intersection.
After capturing the images, an officer reviews the evidence and certifies the violation. The ticket is then mailed to the registered vehicle owner at the address on record. Unlike traditional traffic stops, no police officer needs to be present when the violation occurs.
Can You Fight a Red Light Camera Ticket in Ontario?
Fighting a red light camera ticket is difficult, but not impossible. Your options will depend on the municipality that issued the ticket.
Some municipalities allow you to dispute the fine in court, while others use the Administrative Monetary Penalty System (AMPS). The AMPS system eliminates the option of a traditional court trial and replaces it with an administrative review. Many municipalities are transitioning to this system, making it harder to challenge fines. The Ontario government has allowed the use of administrative penalties for red light cameras under Ontario Regulation 355/22.
Common Defenses Against a Red Light Camera Ticket
Errors in the ticket: This could include incorrect date, location, or license plate number.
Poor visibility or unclear evidence in the photos: If the images are unclear or fail to show the violation clearly.
Camera malfunction or maintenance issues: If the camera is not working properly, though it’s rare.
Municipal officers regularly check and certify red light cameras to ensure they are working correctly. This makes it difficult to argue that the equipment malfunctioned. The law assumes the recorded violation is accurate unless you can prove otherwise.
It’s rare to successfully get a red light camera ticket dismissed, but municipalities may reduce the fine or offer more time to pay. If you believe there is an error in your case, it’s important to act quickly and request a review or schedule a hearing.
What is the Fine?
A red light camera ticket in Ontario comes with a set fine totaling $325. This includes a $260 base fine (the “set fine”), a $60 victim surcharge, and a $5 court fee. The total amount does not change based on how long you were in the intersection or how many red light camera tickets you’ve received.
Does it Affect Insurance?
Red light camera tickets do not affect your insurance rates because they are issued to the vehicle owner, not the driver. Insurance companies assess risk based on driving records, and since these tickets do not appear on a driving record, they do not lead to rate increases.
The province treats red light camera violations like parking tickets. They are fines against the vehicle, not the driver, meaning they carry no direct consequences for your insurance. However, if the fine goes unpaid, the government may take action against your vehicle permit, leading to other administrative issues.
Does it Carry Demerit Points?
You do not receive demerit points for a red light camera ticket. The system only captures the vehicle’s license plate, not the individual behind the wheel, so the province cannot assign points to any individual’s driving record.
Demerit points only apply to traffic violations where a police officer pulls over the driver and issues a ticket in person. Since red light camera tickets don’t involve direct enforcement, they do not affect your driving history or result in point penalties.
For Commercial Vehicles (CVOR)
Commercial vehicle operators should take red light camera tickets seriously. While these fines do not affect insurance or demerit points for personal vehicles, they can impact a company’s Commercial Vehicle Operator’s Registration (CVOR) score.
A red light camera violation adds points to the CVOR record, which regulators use to monitor fleet safety. A high CVOR score can lead to increased inspections, higher operating costs, and potential restrictions on your business. If you manage a fleet, it’s crucial to track violations and address them promptly to avoid long-term consequences.
Questions About Traffic Tickets?
If you have further questions about traffic tickets, reach out to Option3. Our legal team has been helping drivers challenge traffic tickets, including speeding, careless driving, and other violations since 2004. We work to help you avoid fines, demerit points, and higher insurance rates. For a consultation or to book an appointment, visit our website: option3.ca. Option3 committed to securing a favorable outcome and protecting your driving record, along with handling your traffic ticket.
