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If you receive a red light camera ticket in Texas, the equipment that supports the law was banned in 2019. According to code 707.021 of the state’s transportation code, a local authority is not allowed to issue a criminal or civil citation or charge you for a violation that is based on a recorded traffic signal enforcement photo.
In many U.S. cities, traffic cameras have become popular in recent years as a way to capture and issue traffic violations without police intervention. However, a large number of Texas residents do not support the installation of the devices.
Before the ban, the traffic camera ticket represented a fine. This fine was issued by mail when a vehicle was detected running a red light or speeding through an intersection by an enforcement camera. So, the Lone Star State mainly used these cameras for red light enforcement.
If you fail to pay a ticket, in some cases, the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles or the county assessor may prevent registration of the vehicle that violated the law. This type of response is called a scofflaw block. If you try to renew your registration through the DMV online, your registration could be blocked.
The reference to scofflaw is directed to someone who accumulates large debts by not paying their parking tickets and fines. In addition, you may have the city where you live start collections on the fine. This may happen in Leon Valley, which still operates the equipment at this time.
A camera ticket is considered to be a civil violation and therefore is equated with getting a parking ticket. Both types of fines will not count against you on your driving record, nor will they increase your insurance costs.
Many of the drivers in Texas thought the camera invaded their privacy. Therefore, in response,
Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed House Bill 1631 into law in 2019 – legislation that banned the use of red-light cameras throughout the state.
However, certain cities were able to continue using these cameras until their existing contracts with the vendors expired. Jurisdictions that currently use the equipment include Balcones Heights, Humble, Leon Valley, and Amarillo.
While most cities have stopped using red-light cameras, there are still some instances where drivers can receive a ticket from a remaining camera.
Many individuals choose not to pay these fines due to technicalities and the legal ambiguity surrounding the ban. Therefore, it’s wise to consult with a lawyer or legal professional for advice. If fines are not paid, in some instances, it can affect your credit score or the registration for your vehicle may be blocked.
In conclusion, traffic camera tickets in Texas are something of a gray area due to the statewide ban on red-light cameras. While most cities have phased them out, there are still some tickets that are still being issued. Whether or not you choose to pay these fines depends on your personal approach to risk and your confidence in contesting them legally.
If you have any legal questions along these lines, your best defense is to consult with an attorney – a law professional who handles legal matters, including driving infractions and accidents. In Texas, contact Mendoza Law to learn more about your rights today.
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