Installing red light cameras has helped law enforcement capture evidence of traffic violations. It has also helped to reduce the number of negligent drivers running red lights.

However, the state of Nevada prohibits red light camera tickets. If cameras are used, a law enforcement officer must also be on the scene to confirm the violation and issue the ticket.

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Are red light cameras legal in Nevada?

Red light cameras are prohibited in Nevada with limited exceptions. A 1999 statewide law bans cameras that are remotely controlled to collect evidence against negligent drivers. As a result, no red light camera tickets are issued. Any traffic camera, including red light cameras, can only be used if it is directly connected to a cop who is in the field.

What should I do if I receive a red light camera ticket?

Since red light cameras cannot be used to capture traffic infractions, no red light camera tickets are issued in Nevada. On the other hand, you can still get a ticket for running a red light if the police catch you. The fine for running a red light in Nevada is a hefty $1,000.

Other penalties are also severe and include possible jail time of up to six months and four demerit points added to your driving record.

If you are issued a red light ticket in Nevada, there are two options to handle it. You can pay the fine that’s cited on the ticket or fight the ticket to get the charges dismissed or reduced. Each option will have its pros and cons depending on your situation.

How to pay a red light camera ticket

Fighting a ticket can take a lot of time that many people do not have the luxury to spare. In this case, you can pay for the fine and not stress about court dates. In Nevada, paying for your ticket is easy—you can do so online, by phone, by mail, or in person.

If you decide to pay for your red light ticket, you are assumed to be pleading guilty and will forfeit your right to a trial in court and receive all the penalties deemed appropriate. Depending on the circumstances, you could also be charged with reckless driving.

In some cases, you may be able to complete a driver’s education course to dismiss the ticket or reduce the points on your record. Ask the judge if this option is available to you.

How to fight a red light camera ticket

The heavy penalties of a red light ticket may be enough of a reason to fight it. If the points incurred from this charge mean the total points on your record exceed 12, you could face loss of license. For some, this might impact your career.

To fight a red light ticket, you will need evidence. It’s helpful to know what evidence is being used against you in order to build a case. If a Nevada police officer was manning a traffic camera and the footage is being used to back up the charge, this can be challenged in the following ways:

Request proof that the camera was used properly. Incorrect use of the camera could lead to ticket dismissal.

Argue that running a red light was necessary to avoid greater harm. The ticket may be dismissed if you can prove an accident would have happened if you didn’t run the red light.

To fight the ticket, you will need to appear in court to submit a not guilty plea. Keep in mind that failing to appear in court can result in a warrant being issued for your arrest, and the Nevada DMV can suspend your license.

Hiring an experienced traffic attorney will give you a better chance to fight a red light ticket successfully. You may want to get their opinion before entering a not guilty plea.

How does a red light camera work?

Sensors installed in traffic lights get triggered when a car goes through an intersection on a red light. This then signals the red light camera to capture photo and/or video footage, which records the following information:

License plate number

Date and time of the incident

Vehicle speed

Location

Time since the light turned red

Since most red light cameras are operated by third-party companies, the footage and data from the camera will get sent to the appropriate agencies. A ticket is then issued to the red-light violator based on the information received.

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)

did a study that found a 14% decrease in fatal crashes at intersections in major cities when a red light camera is installed. This has led many states to legalize the use of red light cameras for traffic enforcement. However, Nevada prohibits the use of these cameras with limited exceptions.

How to find affordable car insurance in Nevada

Getting a red light ticket in Nevada would lead to a significant

increase in your car insurance rates

. However, this doesn’t mean you’ll be stuck with high premiums forever. The car insurance broker app

Jerry

can help you search for lower rates on comparable coverage.

The process to switch policies is quick and efficient. Just download the Jerry app and sign up in 45 seconds or less. Jerry scans competitive quotes from over 50 top-tiered insurance providers and delivers the best deals straight to you. Once you’ve found a policy that fits your budget and needs, Jerry will take care of the paperwork to complete the switch.

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FAQs

How do I know if a red light camera ticket is real?

If you receive a red light camera ticket by mail, email, or phone, It is best to check the legitimacy before paying any fines. Call your local law enforcement’s non-emergency line or reach out to the Nevada DMV for assistance.

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