Running a red light in Georgia might seem like a minor mistake, but the consequences can add up quickly. Beyond the immediate sting of fines, a red light ticket can lead to points on your driving record, increased insurance premiums, and even a suspended license if you accumulate too many violations. Fortunately, you don’t have to accept these penalties without a fight. A skilled traffic lawyer can review and challenge your ticket, potentially saving you from long-term headaches. Here’s what you need to know about Georgia’s red light laws, the impact of a ticket, and how The Ticket Clinic can help.
Georgia’s Red Light Ticket Laws and Penalties
Under Georgia law, running a red light is a moving violation that carries serious penalties. Whether issued by an officer or captured by a red light camera, the consequences can include:
- Fines: A red light ticket in Georgia typically costs up to $200, not including court fees and surcharges.
- Points on Your Driving Record: A conviction for running a red light adds 3 points to your driving record.
- Insurance Rate Increases: Insurance companies view red light violations as high-risk behavior, which can result in premium hikes for years.
If you accumulate 15 or more points on your record within a 24-month period, your license will be suspended. For professional drivers or individuals who depend on their license for work, this can be devastating.
Why Fighting a Red Light Ticket Matters
Many drivers assume that paying a red light ticket is the easiest way to resolve the issue. However, paying the fine is an admission of guilt, which automatically applies points to your record. Points can lead to bigger problems down the road, including license suspension and increased insurance costs.
Red light camera tickets pose their own challenges. These automated systems don’t account for nuances, such as malfunctioning traffic lights, unclear signage, or valid reasons for proceeding through an intersection. Without an experienced lawyer to challenge the ticket, you may end up paying for a violation you didn’t fully commit.
How a Traffic Lawyer Can Help
A traffic lawyer brings expertise and strategy to your case, increasing your chances of reducing or dismissing the ticket altogether. Here’s how they can help:
- Analyzing Evidence: Lawyers can examine the circumstances surrounding your ticket, including video footage, traffic light timing, and signage, to determine if the violation was legitimate.
- Identifying Errors: If there were procedural errors, such as incorrect issuance of the ticket or a malfunctioning red light camera, your lawyer can use this to challenge the citation.
- Negotiating Reduced Penalties: Even if the ticket isn’t dismissed, an attorney can often negotiate for reduced charges, such as a non-point offense that won’t impact your record.
- Defending Your Case in Court: With a lawyer on your side, you’ll have professional representation to argue your case effectively and protect your driving record.
Why Choose The Ticket Clinic?
When it comes to fighting traffic tickets, The Ticket Clinic has earned its reputation as the most respected traffic law firm in the nation. Here’s why they’re the best choice for Georgia drivers:
- Decades of Experience: With over 35 years of defending drivers against traffic violations, The Ticket Clinic has handled millions of cases with a proven track record of success.
- Comprehensive Service: Their attorneys handle every aspect of your case, from gathering evidence to appearing in court, so you can focus on your daily life.
- Affordable Solutions: Fighting a ticket can save you from costly fines, points, and higher insurance premiums, making their services a smart investment.
- National Reputation: Known for their professionalism and expertise, The Ticket Clinic is a trusted name across the country for traffic law defense.
Protect Your Driving Record with The Ticket Clinic
A red light ticket in Georgia may seem like a minor issue, but the long-term consequences can be significant. From points on your record to rising insurance costs, the impact of a single mistake can follow you for years.
The best way to avoid these penalties is to have a skilled traffic lawyer review and challenge every ticket. The Ticket Clinic’s experienced team knows how to navigate Georgia’s traffic laws and protect your driving privileges. Don’t let a ticket derail your life—contact The Ticket Clinic today and fight back with confidence.