Although some California cities have done away with camera-enforced red-light tickets, Bakersfield has ten intersections monitored by these automated systems:
Bernard Street and Oswell Street
California Avenue/New Stine Road/Stockdale Highway
California Avenue and Oak Street
Coffee Road and Stockdale Highway
Coffee Road and Truxtun Avenue
Chester Avenue and Brundage Lane
Ming Avenue and Real Road
Ming Avenue and Old River Road
Ming Avenue and Valley Plaza
White Lane and Wible Road
After a seasoned local patrol officer conducts a comprehensive review process of the still photo of the front registration plate and the driver to determine if issuing a citation is warranted, the Bakersfield Police Department (BPD) mails thecamera-enforced red-light ticket to the vehicle owner.
If you receive a camera-enforced red-light ticket in Bakersfield, CA, understanding the high costs, potential defenses, and the option of attending traffic violator school (TVS) is crucial.
Consulting a Bakersfield traffic attorney is the best course of action to navigate this situation effectively.
Why Camera-Enforced Red-Light Tickets Cost More Than Officer-Issued Citations
A camera-enforced red-light ticket in California can be significantly more expensive than a ticket issued by a police officer.
While a typical officer-issued (sometimes called a bumper or roadside stop) citation will cost about $238.
A camera-enforced ticket carries a fine of approximately $490. This price difference stems from the costs associated with maintaining the camera systems and paying the private companies that manage them.
Additionally, a law enforcement officer must review the video and photo evidence before issuing the citation, which sometimes might require overtime for the BPD.
Potential Defenses for a Camera-Enforced Red-Light Ticket
While the fines associated with camera-enforced red-light tickets are substantial, these citations are not always uncontestable.
Here are some potential defenses to explore with a Bakersfield traffic attorney:
Unclear Driver Identity: The burden of proof lies with the state to identify the driver behind the wheel. If the video evidence doesn't clearly show the driver, you may have a defense. The registered owner is not required to identify the driver unless directly questioned by the judge in court. An attorney can help ensure the owner stays out of court.
Equipment Malfunction: If the camera malfunctioned at the time of the alleged violation, it could be a valid defense.
Premature Change from Yellow to Red Light: California law mandates minimum yellow light durations based on the speed limit. If the light turned red too quickly before you could safely stop, you might have a defense.
No Warning Signs Posted: Proper signage must be present before a camera-enforced intersection. The absence of such signage could be grounds for dismissal.
No Violation: The video evidence must clearly show a red-light violation. Entering the intersection before the light turns red is not a violation. Human error during video review can occur.
Remember, every situation is unique and should be reviewed by a qualified traffic attorney. Just because someone else was found guilty of running a red light doesn't mean your circumstances are identical. Always consult with an attorney before deciding to pay the fine.
Traffic Violator School (TVS): Keeping the Ticket Confidential
In some cases, you might be eligible to attend traffic violator school (TVS) to keep the conviction confidential. This option can prevent the ticket from appearing on your public driving record, potentially saving you money on insurance and future job applications.
However, eligibility for TVS has limitations, so discussing this possibility with your attorney is crucial.
When TVS Might Not Be the Best Option
Not all traffic tickets qualify for TVS attendance. Plus, attending TVS will likely add just underl $100 to your total. You must plead guilty, pay the entire fine of $490, the Kern County admin fee or $64, the tuition fee, and complete the course before the court-ordered completion date, or all bets are off, and the conviction becomes a part of your record.
Here are some instances where TVS might not be an option:
You recently attended TVS within the past 18 months (you can only use TVS once within this timeframe to keep a ticket confidential).
You have multiple outstanding traffic tickets.
You were driving a commercial vehicle at the time of the red-light violation.
Your ticket was not a minor infraction (a red-light ticket is). Major infractions, misdemeanors, and felonies are not eligible.
There might be other limitations; consult with an attorney for further clarification.
Considering a Bakersfield Traffic Attorney
The high cost of a camera-enforced red-light ticket conviction makes consulting a Bakersfield traffic attorney a wise investment.
An attorney can challenge the evidence, question the officer's judgment on the video review, and represent you effectively in court.
Final Thoughts
Understanding your rights, exploring potential defenses, and consulting a Bakersfield traffic attorney can significantly improve your chances of successfully contesting a camera-enforced red-light ticket.
The average Californian could pay nearly $700 more per year for full coverage for the three years the NOTS points will stay on their record after a red-light ticket conviction.
The exact increase depends on various factors. Always consult a traffic attorney before you decide to pay the fine or dispute the ticket in court.
Contact Bigger & Harman
When you are considering disputing a red-light ticket in Bakersfield Courthouse in Kern County, contact Bigger & Harman, APC. Give us a call at (661) 349-9300—Se habla Español (661) 349-9755.
Use the contact form to schedule a consultation, or email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
References:
The Bankrate.com article, Average cost of car insurance in CA for 2024.