How Do Red Light Camera Tickets Work?
All intersections with red-light cameras have signs so drivers know the cameras are there.
The camera takes a picture when a vehicle enters the intersection after the light has turned red. A provincial offences officer reviews the pictures before a ticket is issued.
Red-light cameras photograph the vehicle and its licence plate. They do not identify the driver.
Is My Car Insurance Affected If I Get a Red-Light Camera Ticket?
A red-light camera ticket is issued to the registered owner of the vehicle, not the driver. It will not appear on your driving record and will not affect your insurance rates.
Are Red-Light Cameras Good at Preventing Accidents?
Red-light cameras are intended to make intersections safer for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians. They are often installed at intersections where collisions have been a problem.
York Region reports that right-angle collisions decreased by 50% at intersections included in its red-light camera program.
Do You Get Demerit Points From a Red-Light Camera Ticket?
No. You don’t get demerit points from a red-light camera ticket because the ticket is issued to the vehicle’s registered owner rather than an identified driver.
This is different from being stopped by a police officer for running a red light. A police-issued ticket may result in demerit points.
How Much Is a Red-Light Camera Ticket?
The amount depends on where the violation occurred.
For example, York Region currently lists a total payable fine of $325 outside a community safety zone and $490 inside one. Check the amount shown on your ticket.
If you don’t pay the ticket, additional charges may apply and you may be unable to renew your licence plate.
How to Pay a Red-Light Camera Ticket in Ontario
Payment methods vary by municipality. Follow the instructions on your ticket to pay online, by mail, by phone or in person.
Make sure you pay before the deadline shown on the ticket.
How to Dispute a Red-Light Camera Ticket in Ontario
Check the ticket for instructions and the deadline to dispute it. The process differs by municipality.
In Toronto, red-light camera penalties can be disputed through a screening review under the city’s Administrative Penalty System.
Review your options before paying. In some municipalities, paying the penalty may end your right to dispute it.