Red Light Cameras in Ontario
If you haven’t yet had the experience of going through a red light camera in Ontario, or perhaps you recently saw a flash when going through a marked red light camera intersection, you may have questions about what will happen next and how a red light ticket might impact your insurance rates.
There are hundreds of red light cameras in Ontario and, while the vast majority are in the GTA, they are also in cities and towns everywhere including Guelph — we even have one near our Ostic Insurance offices. Red light cameras are placed at locations that have the highest volume and highest accident rates, with the important goal of slowing down traffic to help prevent accidents and injuries.
How Is A Red Light Camera Ticket Different Than A Ticket From A Police Officer?
When a driver runs through an intersection with a red light camera, a photo is taken of the vehicle and license plate, and a ticket is issued by mail to the registered owner. There is no difference in the fine structure, and the cost in 2022 is $325. This is consistent across Ontario, so small towns and large cities all carry the exact same fine for a red light ticket.
There are no demerit points issued with a red light camera ticket due to the fact that the image captures the vehicle itself, but not the driver. The ticket is issued by mail to the registered owner of the vehicle, and they are responsible to pay the fine. As a registered owner of a vehicle, failure to pay the fine can result in delays, or difficulty renewing your license plate or even your driver’s license.
Tickets generally arrive by mail about 30 days after the image is taken, however, it can take up to 8 weeks.
Can I Fight A Red Light Camera Ticket?
Fighting a red light camera ticket is very likely to be fruitless as there is photographic evidence of committing the offense. While it might be possible to get a fine reduced, it would make sense to consider the time and effort that would go into pursuing that goal.
How Do I Pay My Fine For A Red Light Camera Ticket?
Red light camera tickets can be paid by following the instructions that are enclosed with the ticket itself when it arrives in the mail. Tickets can also be checked online through the provincial offenses act online portal.
If you lose your red light camera ticket, you can call your local courthouse to inquire and it can be looked up for you. In most cases, you can take care of payment at the same time as the inquiry.
Is There An Impact On My Insurance Rates After Getting A Red Light Camera Ticket?
No. There is no impact on insurance rates after receiving a red light camera ticket. It will count for the vehicle’s owner as a fine, but not as a conviction that affects insurance rating.
What Is The Best Way To Avoid A Red Light Camera Ticket?
The best way to avoid a ticket is to slow down, drive cautiously, and stop well ahead of running a red light.
Knowing where all of the red light camera intersections are in your town, or wherever you are driving, is another way to avoid a fine – most cities have their red light camera locations listed on their websites.
All red light camera intersections are well marked, so stay alert and keep your eye on traffic signs. Lastly, be cautious when loaning out your vehicle. Educate any new or young drivers in your home about the rules and reality of red light tickets.
What Should I Do If I Have A Question?
As always, your Ostic Insurance brokers are here for your questions. Please contact us with any questions or concerns you may have, and we will be happy to help.