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1. What is this all about?

The City of Frederick began red light photo enforcement in 2005 as a part of our comprehensive system of traffic enforcement. In our view, even one accident or injury is too many. Intersection accidents as a result of red light running can and do cause serious injuries and property damage. Since the police cannot be everywhere, red light cameras are another method by which we have additional “eyes” in the community to help enforce the law and keep our citizens safe. Unlike speed enforcement systems, red light cameras are in operation 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

2. This is to generate revenue because the City needs money, right?

No. While there will be revenue generated because inevitably there will be those who, inadvertently or intentionally, run red lights, the main purpose of the program is public safety. Conceivably, we could install red light cameras at every intersection in the City. However, only after careful analysis of data, site surveys, and engineering analysis are red lights cameras proposed. The process is geared toward installing cameras only where there is a safety need. The entire cost of the program is funded by violators.

3. How does the system work?

Each intersection in the program is equipped with a camera and appropriate lighting that is set to monitor the intersection. The equipment is data linked to the vendor. Monitoring of intersections is continuous; however recording only occurs when a violation is detected. The equipment detects when a vehicle enters the intersection (crosses the white stop line) after the light has turned red. Once a violation is recorded, it is sent to the vendor who performs a preliminary check of the violation to ensure it meets our guidelines and that there are no exemption factors present, such as funeral processions, emergency vehicles with emergency equipment activated, or even vehicles clearing the way for emergency vehicles. If the vendor approves the violation, the video, along with registration information, is forwarded the police department for review. Each and every violation is reviewed by a police employee, who verifies the violation as well as the vehicle registration and type of vehicle. Once finally approved by the police department, the vendor sends out a violation notice to the registred owner of the vehicle.

4. How do you know I was driving the vehicle when it ran the red light?

We do not. The law allows for the violation notice to be sent to the registered owner of the vehicle. The camera does not image the driver of the vehicle.

5. I have heard there is no way to fight these tickets. Is this true?

No. When you receive the violation notice, there are instructions for how to pay the citation or request a court date in the District Court. If you request a court date, a police employee will be present to show the evidence on which the citation was based.

6. What happens to my license and insurance if I pay the ticket or I am found guilty in court?

Nothing. Speeding violations captured by red light cameras are civil violations. There is no impact on your license status, no points assessed, and no insurance impact. The only penalty is monetary.

7. What is the maximum fine?

The citation fee if you pay it is $75.00, and this is stated on the violation notice. If you choose to stand trial the judge could impose a fine of up to $100. Additionally, if you do choose to stand trial in the District court and either plead guilty or are found guilty, the court may impose an additional court cost of $22.50