South Dakota Red Light Cameras
Red light cameras aren’t permitted in South Dakota, but running a red light is—and it could cost you up to $500.
Red light cameras aren’t permitted in South Dakota, but running a red light could cost you $500, three points on your record, and maybe even jail time, so it’s crucial to know your choices for handling a ticket.
If you get a citation for running a red light in South Dakota and suspect that it’s a mistake, you’ll need to know all the options you have for challenging the ticket.
If you run a red light in South Dakota, you could be stuck with a misdemeanor charge, which can come with significant penalties. To lay out all your possible options,
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is here to shed light on all you need to know about red light citations in South Dakota—including how to keep your South Dakota insurance rates
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Are red light cameras legal in South Dakota?
No—South Dakota law 32-28-17 prohibits any device that detects red light violations. This law also forbids any county, municipal, or township authority to contract with a private company that provides red light cameras. South Dakota is one of eight states that currently bans red light cameras.
What should I do if I receive a ticket for running a red light?
A stoplight or stop sign violation in South Dakota counts as a Class 2 misdemeanor. Class 2 misdemeanors in South Dakota come with a maximum penalty of a $500 fine and/or 30 days in jail. However, these moving violations are typically only fined a total of $122.50 with no jail time.
These convictions also come with three points against your driving record. Under extreme circumstances, a red light violation could lead to a reckless driving charge as well.
If you get stuck with a red light ticket in South Dakota, you can either accept the charge and pay the fine or plead not guilty to challenge the ticket. Both options have their benefits and drawbacks, so let’s take a look at each option.
How to pay a red light ticket
If you’d prefer to skip all the hassle of challenging the ticket, you can pay the fine
online
, by mail, or in person. The mailing address and court address should be listed on your ticket.It’s important to note that paying the fine outright counts as pleading guilty.
How to fight a red light ticket
To fight the ticket, you’ll need to plead “not guilty” to the court. Many courts in South Dakota require you to submit a plea in person. Since the violation is a misdemeanor, you’ll need to respond to the magistrate court.
Once your plea is accepted, you’ll be assigned a court date to attend either a preliminary hearing or a dispositional conference. A dispositional conference may lead to your penalties being reduced.
It’s a good idea to hire a traffic lawyer to guide you through the process. An attorney will also increase your chances of the ticket being dismissed.
How to find affordable car insurance in South Dakota
When you get a ticket for running a red light, you can expect your car insurance rates to increase. Don’t stress just yet—this is the perfect chance to reevaluate your insurance policy and find one with a better rate.
Your ticket doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be stuck with high rates forever—not with
Jerry
anyways. Our trustworthy insurance comparison app
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