Craig D. Rosenbaum | November 4, 2025 | Personal Injury
Traffic lights are critical for keeping intersections safe and reducing the risk of serious accidents. When drivers run red lights in New York City, the chances of a crash increase. To deter this behavior, NYC issues red light tickets through automated traffic cameras placed at high-risk intersections.
If you receive a red light camera ticket, it’s important to understand how the system works, how much you may owe, and whether it’s worth contesting.
How Red Light Camera Tickets Work
New York City uses red light cameras to enforce traffic laws without requiring a police officer at every intersection. These cameras capture still images of vehicles that enter intersections after the traffic light turns red.
Unlike tickets issued during a traffic stop, red light camera citations are mailed to the owner of the vehicle, regardless of who was driving. Because the camera cannot confirm the identity of the driver, these violations do not result in points on your license.
Before a ticket is issued, the New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) reviews the footage to determine whether a violation occurred. If confirmed, a notice is mailed to the vehicle owner.
How Much Does a Red Light Ticket Cost in NYC?
A red light camera ticket in NYC comes with a flat $50 fine. The cost is the same regardless of how many prior tickets you’ve received. However, late payments can lead to additional penalties, including:
- $25 late fee if not paid within 30 days
- A default judgment may be entered after 75 days
- 9% annual interest may apply to unpaid balances
You can pay your ticket online, by mail, or in person. Online payments include a $4 processing fee and a 2% surcharge for credit card payments. Paying by check via mail or in person avoids these fees.
Fighting a Red Light Camera Ticket
Vehicle owners have the right to contest a red light camera ticket if they believe it was issued in error. Valid defenses may include:
- You sold the vehicle before the violation occurred.
- The car was stolen at the time of the incident.
- The vehicle was misidentified by the camera system.
You can request a hearing to dispute the ticket online, by mail, or in person. At the hearing, you’ll have the opportunity to present your case and provide evidence supporting your claim. If the hearing officer agrees, the citation may be dismissed, and you won’t have to pay the fine.
Should You Fight or Pay the Ticket?
In many cases, paying the $50 fine is quicker and less stressful than contesting the ticket, especially since there are no license points or insurance penalties involved. For most drivers, this is a relatively minor infraction compared to other traffic violations.
However, there are exceptions. If the citation is connected to a traffic accident or if paying it could affect a pending legal claim, it may be in your best interest to speak with a personal injury lawyer before taking action.
An attorney can help determine how the citation could influence your case and whether fighting it is necessary to protect your rights.
Protecting Your Rights After a Violation
Red light camera tickets in NYC are among the least costly traffic citations and do not affect your driving record. Still, failing to act can result in unnecessary fees, interest, and legal judgments.
It’s important to respond within 30 days—either by paying the fine or requesting a hearing—to avoid escalation. If the ticket involves a crash or legal dispute, speak with a personal injury attorney for guidance.
Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers offers a free consultation with a New York personal injury lawyer, so reach out today.
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