Red Light Camera Ticket Defense in NYC

What is a Red Light Camera Ticket?

In New York City, red light camera tickets are issued automatically when a driver’s vehicle is recorded entering an intersection after the light has turned red. High-resolution cameras capture an image of the vehicle’s license plate, and a ticket is mailed to the registered owner. Unlike a ticket issued by a police officer, there is no face-to-face stop yet the consequences can still be costly.

Who Gets Red Light Camera Tickets in NYC?

  • Vehicle Owners: Tickets are mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle, regardless of who was driving at the time.
  • Private and Commercial Vehicles: Both personal cars and commercial fleets (including taxis, limousines, Uber/Lyft vehicles, and delivery vans) can receive tickets.
  • Lease and Rental Cars: Owners and rental companies may be billed, and the costs are passed down to drivers.

When Are Red Light Camera Tickets Issued?

  • After the Light Turns Red: Tickets are triggered only when a vehicle enters the intersection after the light has turned red.
  • Mailed Notices: Usually mailed within 30 days of the violation, with clear photos of the license plate and vehicle.
  • Any Time of Day: Cameras operate 24/7 across NYC intersections, so drivers can receive tickets at any hour.

What are the Consequences of a Red Light Camera Ticket?

  • Fines: Typically $50 for each violation, but repeat offenses add up quickly.
  • No Points on Your License: Unlike officer-issued red light tickets, camera violations do not add points to your license.
  • Impact on Professional Drivers: For TLC-licensed drivers, multiple tickets may still raise concerns with employers or insurance providers.
  • Insurance Issues: While points aren’t added, a pattern of violations may increase your risk profile with insurers.

What if I Plead Guilty to a Red Light Camera Ticket in NYC?

If you plead guilty to a red light camera ticket in NYC, here’s what happens:

  • You Pay a Fine: The standard fine for a red light camera ticket in NYC is $50. Unlike officer-issued tickets, there are no court surcharges attached.
  • No Points on Your License: Camera tickets are considered “owner liability” violations. That means the penalty applies to the vehicle owner, not the individual driver. Because of this, no points are added to your driving record, even if you were the one driving.
  • Insurance Impact: Technically, red light camera tickets are not reported to the DMV, so they don’t go directly on your driving record. However, if you receive multiple violations, insurance companies may notice a pattern and consider you a higher-risk driver—especially if you are a professional or commercial driver.
  • Impact on Professional Drivers (Uber/Lyft/TLC): While one ticket may not cause major issues, repeated camera violations can trigger concerns with the Taxi & Limousine Commission (TLC) or with rideshare platforms like Uber and Lyft. Too many tickets can raise questions about safety and lead to disciplinary action, suspension, or difficulty renewing your TLC license.
  • No Chance to Defend: Once you plead guilty and pay, the case is closed. You lose the opportunity to challenge the ticket based on camera accuracy, notice issues, or misidentification.

How We Support You Against Red Light Camera Tickets in NYC?

Even though these tickets are automated, there are still defenses available. Our attorneys know how to challenge the validity of the ticket and reduce its impact. We examine:

  • Camera Accuracy & Calibration: Ensuring the system was functioning properly at the time.
  • Image Quality: Reviewing whether the plate and vehicle are clearly identifiable.
  • Driver vs. Vehicle Responsibility: Contesting ownership liability in rental or fleet situations.
  • Procedural Issues: Reviewing notice requirements, timelines, and other legal technicalities that may warrant dismissal.

Knowledge & Experience

Red light camera tickets are issued automatically when a driver’s vehicle is recorded entering an intersection after the light has turned red. High-resolution cameras capture an image of the vehicle’s license plate, and a ticket is mailed to the registered owner.
Pleading guilty to a red light camera ticket means you’ll pay the fine and close the case, but it’s often worth contesting if you’ve received multiple violations, are a professional driver, or believe the camera made an error.
Our NYC traffic attorneys regularly defend drivers against stop sign and red light tickets. We know the procedures at the Traffic Violations Bureau (TVB) and how to challenge officer testimony, traffic camera evidence, and signage visibility. In most cases, we appear in court on your behalf, saving you time while we fight for your record and your license.

Fight Your Red Light Camera Ticket Now

While many drivers assume red light camera tickets can’t be challenged, that isn’t true. With the right legal strategy, you may be able to reduce or dismiss the penalties and protect your record.

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