Getting a traffic ticket can be frustrating, but it can be even more so when it comes in the form of a red light camera ticket. Red light camera tickets are issued when a driver runs a red light at an intersection that has a camera installed. If you’ve received a red light camera ticket in Maryland, you may be wondering what your options are. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at how to contest red light camera tickets in Maryland.
Check the Ticket for Accuracy
The first thing you should do when you receive a red light camera ticket is to check it for accuracy. Make sure that the date, time, and location of the violation are correct. Also, check the photo evidence to see if the vehicle in the photo is actually yours. If there are any inaccuracies on the ticket, you may be able to have it dismissed.
Request a Trial
If you want to contest a red light camera ticket in Maryland, you can request a trial. You can do this by filling out the form on the back of the ticket and mailing it to the address provided. Be sure to request a trial by mail or in person. If you do not request a trial, you will be found guilty by default and will be required to pay the fine.
Prepare Your Defense
If you’ve requested a trial, you’ll need to prepare your defense. You can do this by gathering any evidence that may help your case, such as witness statements or photos. You should also familiarize yourself with Maryland traffic laws, specifically those related to red light violations. You may want to consult with an attorney who specializes in traffic violations to help you prepare your defense.
Attend Your Trial
On the day of your trial, be sure to arrive early and dress appropriately. Be respectful and courteous to the judge and other court officials. Present your evidence and arguments clearly and concisely. If you’ve prepared a written statement, you may be allowed to read it in court. After hearing all the evidence, the judge will make a decision and either dismiss the ticket or find you guilty.
Appeal the Decision
If you are found guilty and you believe that the decision was unjust, you may be able to appeal the decision. You can do this by filing an appeal with the Maryland Circuit Court. Keep in mind that there is a deadline for filing an appeal, so be sure to do so as soon as possible.
Consider Hiring a Traffic Ticket Lawyer
If you are unsure about how to proceed with contesting your red light camera ticket in Maryland, or if you feel overwhelmed by the process, you may want to consider hiring a traffic ticket lawyer. A traffic ticket lawyer can help you understand your legal options and guide you through the process of contesting the ticket. They can also represent you in court and argue on your behalf, increasing your chances of having the ticket dismissed or reduced.
Be Aware of the Consequences
It’s important to be aware of the consequences of contesting a red light camera ticket in Maryland. If you are found guilty, you will be required to pay the fine and any associated court costs. You may also face points on your driving record, which can lead to increased insurance premiums. Additionally, if you ignore the ticket or fail to pay the fine, your driver’s license may be suspended.
Practice Safe Driving
The best way to avoid getting a red light camera ticket in Maryland is to practice safe driving habits. Make sure to stop at red lights and obey traffic signals. Always be aware of your surroundings and other drivers on the road. By practicing safe driving, you can avoid getting a ticket in the first place.
As a law firm, we at Alpert Schreyer, LLC have extensive experience in handling traffic violation cases in Maryland, including red light camera tickets. We can assist you with contesting your red light camera ticket by providing legal advice and guidance throughout the process.
We can assess the validity of the ticket by reviewing it and gathering evidence to determine whether there are any inaccuracies that may help you get the ticket dismissed. If you request a trial, we can represent you in court and argue on your behalf. We can present evidence and make legal arguments that may help you get the ticket dismissed or reduced.
In some cases, we may be able to negotiate with the prosecution to reduce the charges or negotiate a plea bargain that is more favorable to you. If you are found guilty and wish to appeal the decision, we can assist you in filing an appeal with the Maryland Circuit Court.
We can provide you with the legal representation and guidance you need to contest your red light camera ticket in Maryland. By working with an experienced traffic violation attorney, you may be able to avoid paying the fine and any associated points on your driving record. Contact us today!