The benefits and disadvantages of red-light cameras are a controversial issue.
The fine for running a red light at an intersection with red-light cameras installed could be as much as $500, but that is only a fraction of the actual expense.
The real expense comes when the DMV assesses NOTS points and your insurance company takes your good driver’s discount and adds the risk associate with running a red light.
Red-light cameras are changing how traffic safety is enforced across California. Authorities claim these systems help prevent collisions caused by drivers who ignore traffic signals. However, this is a controversial statement because sometypes of collisions actually increase.
At Bigger & Harman, we understand how red-light cameras affect our clients.
How Red-Light Cameras Work
Automated red-light cameras operate 24/7, capturing images of vehicles that run red lights.
When vehicles enter the intersection after the signal turns red, the system records the license plate, time, and light status. This information must be verified by an experienced traffic patrolperson before the citation is mailed to the registered owner the red light ticket.
California cities like Bakersfield, Modesto, Merced, and Glendale have implemented red-light cameras at key intersections.
Here are a few examples:
- Bakersfield: Eight intersections, including California Avenue & Oak Street and Bernard Street & Oswell Street.
- Modesto: Ten intersections approved by the City Council on August 15, 2025.
- Merced: Two intersections at 16th Street & R Street are being monitored in both directions.
- Glendale: Multiple intersections along Brand Boulevard and Colorado Street.
These locations are chosen for their high crash rates and traffic volume. However, this is not a complete list.
Safety Impact of Red-Light Cameras
Studies by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) show that cities using automated enforcement see fewer fatal intersection crashes.
In California, some intersections reported more than a 60% reduction in serious collisions after red-light cameras were installed. But there are also studies that show more rear end accidents occur with red light cameras installed than without.
Addressing Public Concerns
Some drivers question whether red-light cameras exist mainly to generate revenue. Sometimes getting a ticket in the mail without a chance to explain to the officer all of the circumstances of the incident that may justify the action is quite frustrating.
These tickets are treated as traffic offenses, not parking tickets. That means drivers can dispute them in court to prevent points on their license or higher insurance premiums, possibly.
Local Enforcement on California Roads
In traffic-heavy areas near Highway 99 in Bakersfield or Interstate 5 in Modesto and Merced, red-light cameras help reduce severe crashes at busy intersections.
In Glendale, near Highway 134, automated enforcement is used to enforce the law at some intersections.
The Economic and Safety Benefits
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), intersection crashes cost the U.S. over $97 billion annually. By reducing these incidents, California saves millions in emergency services and property damage. Red light cameras are one of their more controversial attempts to do so.
What Are the Benefits of Legal Representation to Dispute a Ticket
When California drivers are ticketed for running a red light, many with legal representation have had favorable outcomes when disputing these charges in court.
One major benefit of not being in court is that the defendant does not have to answer awkward questions from the traffic court judge about who was driving.
A teen on your auto insurance policy found guilty of running a red light will cost you thousands more in increased premiums.
“Parents adding a teen driver to their policy can expect to pay 130 percent more than the California average cost of full coverage.”—Bankrate.com.
Now, imagine adding another 30 to 40 percent for the lost “good driver’s discount of 20%” and additional risk associated with running a red light.
The officer or judge can put you in an awkward position by asking you about who was driving. In those situations, it is often best to have legal counsel handle the case for you.
Consult Bigger & Harman About Red-Light Cameras
Before paying a fine or admitting guilt, drivers in Bakersfield, Modesto, Merced, or Glendale should consult Bigger & Harman, APC.
Our team helps drivers dispute red-light camera citations in local traffic courts, including Kern, Stanislaus, Merced, and LA Counties.
We can review the citation, check the camera’s yellow-to-red time intervals, challenge blurred photos, and instances where the driver clearly made a full stop prior to the crosswalk, then rolled forward to make a right turn on red.
Our goal is to protect your driving record and keep you on the road.
Call us at (661) 349-9300 — se habla Español 349-9755, or email attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com. You can also use our online contact form to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Section
Q: How do red-light cameras detect violations?
A: They use still photos and videos that capture the license plate and driver of those vehicles that enter an intersection after the light turns red.
Q: How much is the fine for running a red light at a camera-enforced intersections?
A: The fine is generally around $490, but the owner’s insurance premium could increase as much as $850 per year for full coverage for three years or until the DMV removes the paid fine or record of conviction from your driving record.
Q: Can I dispute a red-light camera ticket in California?
A: Drivers or their attorney can challenge errors such as unclear photos, the camera’s view point, malfunctioning equipment, or improperly set yellow-red intervals, depending on the speed limit along the roadway. Caltrans sets the statewide interval in the California Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (CA MUTCD).
References:
The Caltrans CA MUTCD.
The Bankrate.com article, Average cost of car insurance in CA for 2025.
CA VC Sections 21453, Offenses Relating to Traffic Devices [21450 - 21468].