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Frequently Asked Questions About Red Light Camera Tickets in Virginia
Admin • Oct 22, 2019
Frequently Asked Questions About Red Light Camera Tickets — Hillsville, VA — Tolbert & Tolbert, LLP

Red light cameras are becoming more and more prevalent. However, different states have different laws in regards to whether the cameras are legal and what types of penalties you may face if a camera catches you running a red light.



If you live in the state of Virginia or have received a red light camera ticket in Virginia, you may have many questions. Here are a few frequently asked questions about red light camera tickets in Virginia.



Are Red Light Cameras Legal in Virginia?

Cameras that catch drivers running red lights are legal in the state of Virginia. Police officers are responsible for reviewing the footage captured by a red light camera and determining whether or not a citation should be mailed out. 



Can the Cameras Tell If You Stop to Make a Right Hand Turn Against a Red Light?

In the state of Virginia, sensors placed in the ground can determine whether or not your car comes to a full and complete stop prior to making a right hand turn. While it is legal to make a right hand turn against a red light, the law does require you to come to a full stop at any red light, even if you turn at the light. If the sensors indicate you did not stop, the cameras will activate and take photos of your car. 



Is the Owner of the Car Responsible for a Ticket?

In some states, the driver of the vehicle is responsible for the red light violation. In other states, the owner of the vehicle is responsible for the red light violation. Per Virginia State Code 15.2-968.1, the owner of a vehicle is responsible for a red light camera ticket even if they were not driving. This is the same way a parking ticket works.


If your car was reported stolen and you made a police report, all red light camera tickets will be waived for the period your car was out of your possession. 



What Are the Penalties for a Red Light Camera Ticket?

In the state of Virginia, a red light camera violation is treated differently than a ticket that is issued by a police officer who caught you running a red light. A red light camera ticket is not considered a moving violation in the state of Virginia. This means that it will not go on your driving record, nor will it affect your auto insurance rates. The maximum penalty for a red light camera ticket in the state of Virginia is $50. 



Can You Receive Both a Red Light Camera Ticket and a Ticket From Law Enforcement?

If you run a red light and a law enforcement officer witnessed the incident, they may pull you over and issue you a citation. When a police officer issues this type of citation, it is a moving violation that can affect your driving record. It also carries a penalty of up to $350. However, the red light camera does not realize that a police officer caught the violation and pulled you over. As such, you may receive a red light camera ticket and a ticket from law enforcement. 



If this occurs, you will be able to note this on the red light camera ticket and have that ticket dismissed. You will then be able to pay the fine for the officer-issued violation or dispute that ticket if desired. You will not be required to pay both tickets for the same offense.



If you have received a red light camera ticket in the state of Virginia that you do not feel is fair, Tolbert & Tolbert, LLP, can help you to fight the ticket. Contact us today to discuss any and all traffic violations you are facing, and let us help you to get them reduced or dismissed. 

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