Traffic and Red Light Cameras in Dallas, TX
Red light traffic cameras were first introduced in the United States in the 1990s. Since then, these cameras have been implemented around the country, aiming to reduce car accidents and punish individuals who have violated traffic laws.
Today, though, places like Texas have stopped using red-light traffic cameras. So what does that mean for drivers, and is it possible to still receive traffic camera citations?
While red light traffic cameras are no longer operational in places like Dallas, it’s still possible to receive traffic citations from law enforcement officers. Violating road rules and receiving citations can actually impact your situation if you’ve been involved in a car accident. This may aid in proving cause and liability.
How Do Red Light Traffic Cameras Work, and What Is Their Purpose?
Red light traffic cameras are installed on or around traffic lights at intersections. Sensors activate the cameras when a violation has likely occurred, such as when speeding through an intersection. The cameras take photos of the vehicle, capturing the physical appearance of the car and the license plate information.
City employees review traffic camera footage to determine whether a violation has, in fact, occurred. With the information captured, they obtain the vehicle owner’s information and mail a traffic citation. Once received, the vehicle’s owner can either pay the fine or fight the ticket, which usually involves scheduling a court date.
Generally, traffic cameras were introduced to try to deter individuals from committing traffic violations, like purposely running red lights or making wrongful turns. This could, in turn, increase the chances of collisions.
The Story With Traffic Cameras in Texas
Red light traffic cameras were introduced in the state of Texas around 2003. However, the law regarding traffic cameras changed in 2019 when Governor Abbott signed a law banning their use throughout the state. Now, the Texas Transportation Code clearly reflects these changes.
Soon after the new law was passed, Dallas shut off its 52 traffic cameras and halted the issuance of new citations for violations captured by red light cameras throughout the city. When the traffic camera ban took place, the city of Dallas was only two years into a six-year contract for the operation of red light cameras.
Even with the ban, certain municipalities continued operating red light traffic cameras until the completion of contracts with third parties. Today, it’s not likely anyone in Dallas would receive any type of red light traffic camera ticket, considering they’ve been shut off and remained off for several years.
However, certain cities may still have active traffic camera contracts, which means you may receive a citation in different Texas locations. Any driver who receives a traffic camera citation should not ignore it. While the new law may shield you from certain repercussions, it could impact you in other ways, such as regarding your vehicle’s registration.
Even Without Red Light Traffic Cameras, It’s Still Possible To Receive a Citation
Although Texans may believe that the red light traffic camera ban protects them from citations from receiving violations, it doesn’t. If you violate Texas laws while on the road, you may still receive a traffic citation from local law enforcement. If you do, you’ll need to pay your fine or schedule a day in court.
Traffic violations can play a significant role in car accidents. If you’re involved in a collision in Texas, discuss your case with a Dallas auto accident attorney right away. Your attorney can determine whether a violation played a role in your crash and use this information to strengthen your case.
Contact Our Car Accident Law Firm in Dallas, TX
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Dallas, Texas, and need legal help, contact our Dallas car accident lawyers at Jay Murray Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today.
Jay Murray Personal Injury Lawyers
2512 State St,
Dallas, TX 75201
(214) 855-1420
