Red light cameras are traffic safety equipment that have been installed to ensure the safety of motorists. The cameras ensure that motorists do not violate the rules by cutting through the lights. However, in the US, these red light cameras are one of the most debated topics. There are a lot of myths and misconceptions about the red light cameras, leaving motorists confused about what is true.
To ensure that drivers and others who share the road are equipped with accurate knowledge, it is crucial that this misinformation be debunked. By doing so, we can foster more responsible and informed behavior on the road. It also helps gain the citizens’ trust in the traffic system. So here are a few common myths about red light camera tickets that have been debunked for you.
1. Red Light Camera Tickets Are Not Real Tickets
When we think of a traffic violation ticket, we naturally imagine a policeman stopping us and handing over a ticket to us. But in the case of red light camera tickets, many drivers are under the assumption that they are not real tickets, as they aren’t handed over by policemen. But you should know that a red light camera ticket is a valid ticket just like any other violation ticket.
So, if you plan to ignore a red light camera ticket, just remember, it can lead to fines and other penalties, including issues with the registration of your vehicle.
2. Ignoring a Red Light Camera Ticket Is Fine
Sometimes, when a driver gets a red light camera ticket, they toss it into the trash can. They think that making the ticket disappear or losing it means that they will not have to pay the fine amount.
But they are unaware of the fact that they are making a huge mistake. An unpaid red light camera ticket may keep accumulating late fines or even prevent you from renewing your license plate or registration.
3. Red Light Cameras Are Inaccurate
One of the main concerns that people have with red light cameras is that they think the cameras are inaccurate and unreliable. While it is true that not all technology can be completely depended on, one must know that the red light cameras are designed for high accuracy.
They make use of sensors and timed photography techniques to ensure that the violation is captured accurately and clearly. Instead of real-time monitoring, the camera only captures the license plates of vehicles that enter the intersection after the red light is turned on.
4. Red Light Cameras Are Used For Making Money
One of the most common assumptions about the red light cameras is that they are just a way for the city to make money. While the fine amount may be used as revenue, it is not the ultimate motive of these cameras. The real goal is to capture and identify motorists who run red lights and improve road safety. In fact, it has been found that areas with red light cameras have fewer accidents when compared to other areas.
5. You Cannot Fight a Red Light Camera Ticket
One of the assumptions that people have about red light tickets is that they think that once the camera snaps their car, there is no way for them to escape, even if they were not wrong. But if you have been wrongly captured, you can always go to court to prove yourself not guilty. You can show that you were taking a legal right turn, or that the photo captured the wrong vehicle, or also if the signals weren’t proper.
Final Thoughts
A few other myths about red light camera tickets include the notion that out-of-state tickets are not relevant or that red light cameras are typically located only in high-income areas. While red light cameras can be frustrating, it is important that you don’t fall for these myths and be a responsible driver.
