Experienced Legal Defense for a GA Red Light Violation Ticket
Key Takeaways
- Camera vs. Officer Tickets:
- Red-light camera citations are civil, carry no points, and cost up to $70.
- Officer-issued red-light tickets are moving violations, add 3 points, and fines can reach $1,000.
- Owner Liability: The registered owner, not necessarily the driver, must pay camera tickets; failure to pay can trigger extra fees, collections, and even license suspension.
- No Court Challenge for Camera Tickets: Georgia law does not allow attorneys to dispute mailed red-light camera citations in court.
- Right-on-Red Rule: State law requires a full stop before turning right on red and yielding to traffic and pedestrians; some localities (e.g., parts of Atlanta) ban right-on-red altogether where posted.
- Legal Consequences: Officer-issued violations fall under O.C.G.A. § 40-6-20(a); camera tickets under § 40-6-20(f)(3). Know which code applies to your case.
- Why Hire a Lawyer: A Georgia red-light ticket attorney, such as Attorney Scott Fortas, can fight officer-issued tickets, aiming to reduce points and protect your insurance rates.
- Free 24/7 Help: For personalized advice and potential reduced penalties, call Georgia Traffic Lawyers at (404) 315-9936 for a FREE consultation.
Understanding Red Light Violations in Georgia
Types of Red Light Violations
- Officer-Observed Violations: A uniformed police officer who claims to have observed the offense issues a red light ticket as a moving violation assessed against the driver. This type of offense carries a maximum fine of $1,000 and three points on your license.
- Camera-Detected Violations: Violations detected by traffic cameras photograph the driver committing the violation. These are often less severe but still carry penalties.
Consequences of Red Light Tickets
- Fines: The maximum fine for an officer-issued red light ticket is $1,000.
- Points on License: Accumulating points can lead to increased insurance rates and potential license suspension.
- Camera Tickets: While these do not add points to your license or affect insurance rates, they carry a fine of up to $70.
Failure to Obey Traffic Control Device Violations in Georgia
A driver in Georgia can face charges for not obeying a traffic control device in several ways, including:
- Running a red light
- Failing to stop at a flashing yellow light
- Not halting at a flashing red light
If you have been accused of failing to comply with a traffic device or any other traffic violation in Georgia, reach out to our team of Georgia red light ticket violations lawyers for assistance.
Common Defenses for Red Light Violations
- Poor Timing: Arguing that the yellow light duration was insufficient for you to stop safely.
- Not Safe to Stop: Proving that stopping suddenly would have caused an accident due to a closely following vehicle or other dangerous circumstances.
- Poor View: Demonstrating that the officer did not have a clear view to accurately observe your actions.
Even if you don’t have a strong defense, an experienced Georgia traffic attorney can help negotiate for reduced points and/or a reduced violation. Contact Georgia Traffic Lawyers today at (404) 315-9936 for a free consultation.
Red Light Camera Tickets in Georgia
What You Need to Know
- Non-Moving Violation: Tickets from red light cameras do not add points to your license and do not affect your insurance rates.
- Fines: The fine for a red light camera ticket can be up to $70.
- Responsibility: The registered owner of the car is responsible for the ticket, even if they were not the one driving. They can seek reimbursement from the actual driver.
- Consequences of Non-Payment: Failing to pay a red light camera ticket can lead to additional fees or collections action and potential license suspension.
- Red light camera tickets received in the mail cannot be disputed in court by a lawyer in Georgia.
Laws and Consequences of Red Light Tickets in Georgia
Georgia Code Violation § 40-6-20(a)
This law pertains to violations observed directly by police officers. It covers various scenarios where a driver fails to obey traffic control devices, including running red lights and not stopping at flashing signals. Violations under this code can result in significant fines and points on your driving record.
Georgia Code Violation § 40-6-20(f)(3)
This law addresses violations detected by red light cameras. These automated systems capture images of vehicles running red lights. While the penalties are less severe than officer-issued tickets, they still carry fines and require timely payment to avoid further consequences.
Many drivers question if Georgia law require you to stop before turning right on a red light. Under Georgia law, drivers must come to a complete stop before turning right at a red light. After stopping, you may proceed with the right turn only if the intersection is clear of oncoming traffic and pedestrians, and no signs prohibit the maneuver. It’s essential to yield the right of way to all vehicles and pedestrians within the intersection.
However, be aware that some local jurisdictions may have specific restrictions. For instance, Atlanta has enacted ordinances prohibiting right turns on red in certain areas, with enforcement beginning once signage is in place. Therefore, it’s improtant to observe and comply with all posted traffic signs and signals to ensure safety and adherence to local laws.
Frequently Asked Questions About Red Light Tickets in Georgia
How much is a ticket for going through a red light?
The price is different depending upon where you were driving when you received the ticket. The maximum penalty is Georgia for this violation is $1000. Each jurisdiction has its own fines in place for a red light ticket.
How many points is a red light ticket?
Officer-Issued Tickets: These add 3 points to your driving record. Accumulating 15 points within 24 months can lead to license suspension. Additionally, moving violations can result in increased insurance premiums.
Red light camera Ticket: Typically, a red light camera does not carry any points if you pay it, but please confirm with the number provided on your ticket.
The Role of Georgia Red Light Ticket Lawyers:
Why You Should Hire a Georgia Red Light Ticket Violations Lawyer
- Professional Legal Advice: A Georgia red light ticket lawyer can provide professional legal advice tailored to your specific situation.
- Protect Your Driving Record: Lawyers can work to reduce or eliminate points on your driving record, helping to keep your insurance rates low and prevent license suspension.
- Representation in Court: Experienced attorneys can represent you in traffic court, presenting a strong defense and negotiating with prosecutors.
- Reduce Fines and Penalties: Lawyers can often negotiate for reduced fines and penalties, saving you money in the long run.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that you have a knowledgeable and experienced attorney on your side can provide peace of mind during a stressful time.
Free Red Light Ticket Consultation
Call our Georgia red light ticket lawyers for a free consultation. We can discuss your case and help you understand your options without any financial commitment. This is an excellent opportunity to determine the best course of action.
Red light ticket violations in Georgia can have serious consequences, but understanding your rights and knowing how to handle the situation can make a significant difference. By hiring a Georgia red light ticket lawyer, you can protect your driving record, reduce the violation, and receive skilled legal representation.
If you have received a red light ticket in Georgia, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance. Contact Georgia traffic lawyers today at 404-315-9936 for a free consultation. Experienced Georgia red light ticket lawyers have the knowledge to help you achieve the best possible outcome in traffic court.
Additional Tips for Dealing with Red Light Tickets
- Stay Calm and Composed: Keeping a calm demeanor can help de-escalate the situation.
- Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with your rights during a traffic stop to avoid unnecessary searches and potential legal issues.
- Document the Incident: If you feel your rights were violated, document the details of the traffic stop as soon as possible. This information can be crucial if you decide to contest the ticket.
- Seek Legal Advice Promptly: Don’t delay in contacting a Georgia red light ticket lawyer. Prompt action can be crucial in building a strong defense.
By being informed and prepared, you can protect minimize the potential damage a red light ticket may cause. Remember, a red light ticket is not just a minor inconvenience; it can have lasting effects on your driving record and finances. Take the necessary steps to safeguard your future by contacting a Georgia red light ticket lawyer today.
Contact us for red light ticket, or failure to obey traffic control device ticket defense.
Free consultation, call 404-315-9936, 24/7.
