Can I contest a traffic light camera ticket for an incomplete stop?

There are many traffic light camera tickets issued in various jurisdictions today, and just as with any ticket, you have the right to fight it if you believe it is in error. In fact, there are many fake tickets being issued, often by the police or other scam artists hoping to obtain extra fine money or personal information. The first step, then, is to verify the ticket with the issuing court through their website or a phone call.

If the ticket is valid, you have several options to fight it.

• If the ticket does not contains your license plate number and photo, you have grounds to dispute it.

• If there is no notification of a ticket camera at the intersection, or if it was obscured, pictures may provide evidence for dismissal.

• If you did not receive the ticket within the appropriate period (often as little as 15 days), it may be invalid.

• If someone else was originally ticketed and identified you, you can request that that witness testify in court. If they do not appear, it may be grounds to have the ticket dismissed.

Many of these defenses can be handled without an attorney, but if you have prior tickets, it may be more important for you to win this case. You may want to consult with a traffic ticket attorney to ensure the best defense possible.