Yes—a number of New York’s jurisdictions legally use red light cameras to catch red-light violators. Regardless of who was driving the car, however, the owner of the car is responsible for paying for the red light camera violation, unless the car was driven without the owner’s permission.

The price of a red light camera violation is a $50 ticket, but the violation will not go on the driver’s record or affect insurance premiums.

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

The penalty for running a red light and being captured on a red light camera in New York is $50. It does not affect your insurance premiums nor does it appear on your driving record.

So with that in mind, you have the option to contest the fine, or you can simply pay it. There are pros and cons to both options, which are discussed below.

MORE:

Does running a red light increase your car insurance rates?

How to pay a red light camera ticket

If you decide to pay the ticket, you’re forfeiting your right to contest it in the future. Considering the fine is relatively small, and there won’t be any negative impact on your driving record or insurance, you’ll be avoiding a major hassle.

Paying a red light camera ticket in New York is fairly simple because there is no shortage of options. You can pay via mobile app, online, mail, or in person. You can find the pertinent information on where to go for any of these options on the ticket itself.

How to fight a red light camera ticket

Considering the lower price of the ticket, and that there are no points levied against you for a red light camera violation, it’s advised that you simply pay the fine. But if you strongly feel that you have a case, you can plead not guilty and try to support your claim.

You can argue your case either in person, via a lawyer, or an affidavit. Be aware that most lawyers will not take on cases of this type because the cost of the ticket and the lack of any real long-term punishment simply isn’t worth their time.

How does a red light camera work?

Red light cameras work with traffic light sensors to determine when the lights change to red. Once the light changes, the cameras go to work, capturing photo and video footage of every car that passes through the intersection on a red light. The cameras capture the following information for every recorded violation:

Vehicle’s license plate number

Vehicle’s traveling speed

Date and time of the violation

Location of the intersection where the violation occurred

How much time has elapsed since the light turned red

Red light cameras, including those in New York, are typically owned and operated by third-party companies. These companies, however, are not in charge of issuing the tickets for violations. They submit their footage of any violations to law enforcement agencies, who then handle distributing tickets as needed.

Although a study carried out by the

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)

determined a 14% reduction of fatal traffic accidents in intersections due to red light cameras, they still remain a source of ongoing controversy.

But no matter what side of the issue you find yourself on, keep in mind that a ticket from an officer for running a red light will go on your driving record and is more expensive than a ticket from a red light camera.

How to find affordable car insurance in New York

Don’t worry if you’ve got a red light camera violation in New York—your insurance won’t be affected! But if you still feel like it’s time to find more affordable coverage, just call on

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FAQ

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

Watch out for tickets sent by email or phone—the New York DMV only issues tickets through the mail. If you receive a ticket with any missing or suspicious information, call the court to confirm whether or not the ticket is legitimate.

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