Red Light Tickets

Some Key Facts about Red Light Tickets in Ontario

Red light tickets in Ontario are issued for violations related to running a red traffic light. Here are some key facts about these tickets:

Legislation: The rules for red lights are outlined in the Highway Traffic Act (HTA), specifically under Section 144.
Violation: It is illegal to enter an intersection when the traffic signal is red. This rule applies to all vehicles, including cars, trucks, and bicycles.

Fines: The base fine for running a red light is typically $325, but it can increase to $400 with additional surcharges and fees.
Demerit Points: Running a red light results in 3 demerit points being added to your driving record.

Automated Enforcement: Many municipalities in Ontario use red light cameras to automatically detect and record red light violations.
Camera Locations: Red light cameras are typically installed at high-risk intersections and are marked with signs to inform drivers of their presence.
Ticket Issuance: If a red light camera captures a violation, a ticket is mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle. The ticket includes a photo of the vehicle at the intersection and details of the violation.

Police Authority: Police officers can issue red light tickets based on their observations of the violation or using evidence from red light cameras.
Evidence in Court: For red light camera tickets, evidence includes photographs and sometimes video footage showing the vehicle entering the intersection while the light is red.

Challenging a Ticket: If you receive a red light ticket, you can either pay the fine or contest it in court. To contest, you must request a trial and present your case.
Defenses: Possible defenses might include arguing that the camera or traffic signal was malfunctioning, or providing evidence that you were not the driver at the time.

Premium Increase: A conviction for running a red light can lead to increased insurance premiums, as it is considered a serious traffic violation that indicates a higher risk of causing an accident.

Awareness Campaigns: There are various public awareness campaigns aimed at reducing red light violations and improving road safety. These campaigns emphasize the importance of obeying traffic signals and avoiding risky behavior at intersections.

Accident Risk: Running a red light increases the risk of severe accidents, as vehicles from the intersecting road may be crossing simultaneously.
Intersection Safety: Obeying traffic signals and stopping at red lights help ensure the safety of all road users and reduce the likelihood of collisions.

Emergency Vehicles: Emergency vehicles with flashing lights and sirens are exempt from certain traffic signal rules, including red lights, when responding to emergencies.
Turning on Red: In some cases, turning right on a red light is permitted unless posted otherwise. However, you must come to a complete stop and yield to pedestrians and oncoming traffic before making the turn.

Compliance: Drivers are responsible for observing and obeying all traffic signals and regulations. Running a red light is considered a serious infraction that can endanger yourself and others on the road.

Understanding these facts about red light tickets can help you avoid violations and enhance road safety.