Do Red Light Camera Tickets Affect Insurance?

As a means to encourage safe driving, red light cameras are becoming increasingly common at intersections across the country. While this innovation has been instrumental in promoting road safety, many motorists who have received these tickets are often curious as to whether their auto insurance will be impacted. In this blog, we’ll delve into red light camera tickets, discuss their effect on driving records and insurance, and offer tips to avoid receiving one of these tickets. Keep reading to learn more!

Please Note: This blog provides a general overview of red light camera tickets and auto insurance. It is not all-encompassing and should not be taken as specific advice. If you have any questions, be sure to discuss your unique circumstances with a licenced insurance broker.

What is a Red light Camera Ticket?

A red light camera ticket is a traffic citation issued when a vehicle is caught running a red light by an automated traffic enforcement system. These systems are typically installed at busy or accident-prone intersections to monitor traffic and discourage dangerous driving behaviours.

How do Red light Camera Tickets Work? 

When a vehicle enters an intersection after the traffic signal has turned red, the red light camera system is activated. Unlike traditional traffic violations where a police officer issues the ticket directly, red light camera tickets are based solely on photographic evidence. The camera captures high-resolution photographs and sometimes video footage of the violation, including the vehicle's licence plate and its position relative to the traffic signal. These details are used as evidence, and a citation is then mailed to the address of the registered owner of the vehicle.

What the Ticket Includes:

A red light camera ticket will usually include the following information:

• Date, time, and location of the violation
• Photographic evidence clearly showing the vehicle at the intersection
• The fine amount and payment instructions

How Do Red Light Tickets Affect Your Driving Record?

One of the key differences between red light camera tickets and tickets issued by police is how they affect your driving record. Traditional traffic violations, such as those issued by an officer for running a red light, often come with demerit points that stay on your driving record for a certain period.

However, red light camera tickets in most provinces do not come with demerit points because they are issued to the vehicle owner rather than the driver. Since there is no way to identify the person behind the wheel, the ticket is treated as a vehicle-related fine rather than a moving violation tied to your driving record.

It’s important to note that ignoring or failing to pay a red light ticket can lead to consequences that may indirectly affect your ability to drive. For example, unpaid tickets can result in licence plate renewal restrictions or even vehicle registration holds. That said, staying on top of these fines is essential to maintain your driving privileges and avoid unnecessary disruptions.

Do Red Light Camera Tickets Affect Your Insurance?

Generally speaking, red light camera tickets do not directly impact your auto insurance rates. Since they don’t add demerit points to your driving record or appear on your insurance abstract, insurance companies typically don’t use these tickets when assessing your risk profile. While this may not increase your premiums, receiving a ticket still has its financial consequences. For example, the cost of a red light ticket in Ontario is $325.

How to Avoid Red Light Tickets

The best way to avoid red light camera tickets is to practice safe driving habits. Here are some tips to help you stay ticket-free and keep yourself and others safe:

1. Always Approach Intersections with Caution: Slow down as you approach intersections, and be prepared to stop if the light turns yellow.
2. Don’t Try to Beat the Light: Trying to speed through a yellow light often leads to running a red light and increases the risk of a collision.
3. Stay Focused and Avoid Distractions: Keep your eyes on the road and avoid distractions, such as using your phone, that could cause you to miss a changing traffic light.
4. Maintain a Safe Following Distance: Keeping a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you gives you more time to react to changing traffic signals.

Stay Safe and Protected on the Road

Red light cameras play a crucial role in promoting road safety and reducing traffic violations. While receiving a red light ticket can be frustrating, it's reassuring to know that these citations generally don’t affect your auto insurance rates. By understanding how they work and adopting safe driving practices, you can avoid these penalties and help create safer streets for everyone.
To ensure you're fully protected on the road, contact a BIG broker or request a quote for car insurance today. We'll help you find the right coverage so you can drive with confidence no matter where the road takes you.