How to Appeal a Red-Light Camera Citation

The ticket shows up in the mail a month after some normal drive to work, along with a handful of black and white pictures and a hefty fine claiming that you ran a red light on such-and-such day. But you know you're being scammed because it's the same light you drive through every day and always stop at. Here's how to appeal that traffic ticket that you've been issued by a system of bogus cameras and computers that has little-to-no human oversight.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Pay the man. Unfortunately, this is the first step. If you don't, the fine will get bigger and your opportunity to appeal will be relinquished. Cut and mail the check.

2. Attach with your payment a letter explaining your case. If the pictures sent to you don't back you up (check the MPH against the time elapsed), ask the clerk to review the tapes and file a formal appeal.

3. Attend the hearing, if required, once the court schedules one. A lawyer is optional. Chances are, you will be contacted before this hearing date, if one is scheduled at all. Any stops over the stop bar, even complete ones, activate the cameras, and usually the police will admit the cameras have it wrong. This is the most common mistake and most fines are withdrawn. You will be refunded. Cheers.

Tips & Warnings

• Laws vary by region. Check with the relevant departments in your area before proceeding.