Right on Red Automated Violation

[googoodolljen]

California- I recently received an automated violation for turning right on red at a very poorly posted location (Code 21453(a)CVC). I am now being asked to pay $381 for this. My question is whether or not there is a maximum fine for an infarction like this? My husband got hit at the same light 2 years ago for actually running it in the middle of the night and he was charged less. Can you please explain to me how they determine the costs of these fines? Also, is there rules the state needs to abide by regarding where they place the "no turn on red" sign at? Because the only sign stating this was placed across the intersection next to the cross walk sign rather than on the actual cross bar that contains the traffic light? Thanks

[CourtClerk]

Originally Posted by googoodolljen

California- I recently received an automated violation for turning right on red at a very poorly posted location (Code 21453(a)CVC). I am now being asked to pay $381 for this. My question is whether or not there is a maximum fine for an infarction like this? My husband got hit at the same light 2 years ago for actually running it in the middle of the night and he was charged less. Can you please explain to me how they determine the costs of these fines? Also, is there rules the state needs to abide by regarding where they place the "no turn on red" sign at? Because the only sign stating this was placed across the intersection next to the cross walk sign rather than on the actual cross bar that contains the traffic light? Thanks

According to regulation, signs need to be placed at each intersection that red light enforcement is done. On top of that, there must be a period of warning before the cameras begin ticketing and a fine is attached. Usually, it's 30 days. If in that 30 days, you run the light, you are sent a warning in the mail, but no fine. After that, you are fined.

My husband got hit at the same light 2 years ago for actually running it in the middle of the night and he was charged less.

Unfortunately, traffic fines in CA are extremely high and as of March 2007, the fines were increased (that $381 fine was $361) and before that, fines were raised for certain violations as of 1/1 and before that, fines were raised in 9/06. Those fines are statutory and as I tell people that come into the courthouse complaining about the amount of your fine, you need to call your state legislators and your board of supervisors...

One more thing. The City of LA has begun automated right turn enforcement and yes, you can receive and will receive (at those intersections) a red light camera ticket at an intersection where you are attempting to turn right. If you do not make a COMPLETE stop at the limit line, the camera will flash and you are caught.

[Pugilist]

Excellent reply by Court Clerk but I think the OP was asking where the "no right on red" signs had to be posted. In my opinion the signs should be before you get to the intersection, not on the far side. But I'm not a traffic engineer, and I don't know the specific answer. But I do know that sign placement is regulated/specified in something called the "CalTrans Manual." The Manual is available on line (it actually does not exist anymore as a paper document), and you can go to the CalTrans site to read it. But it is so voluminous that I would recommend simply phoning the CalTrans engineers in Sacramento and asking them where the signs are supposed to be.

For a lot more online info about your ticket, do a google on red light camera ticket.

Pug

[CourtClerk]

Originally Posted by Pugilist

Excellent reply by Court Clerk but I think the OP was asking where the "no right on red" signs had to be posted. In my opinion the signs should be before you get to the intersection, not on the far side. But I'm not a traffic engineer, and I don't know the specific answer. But I do know that sign placement is regulated/specified in something called the "CalTrans Manual." The Manual is available on line (it actually does not exist anymore as a paper document), and you can go to the CalTrans site to read it. But it is so voluminous that I would recommend simply phoning the CalTrans engineers in Sacramento and asking them where the signs are supposed to be.

For a lot more online info about your ticket, do a google on red light camera ticket.

Pug

The new red light camera project tickets are not specifically citing violators for "no right on red" violations. They are also citing violators for NOT COMING TO A COMPLETE STOP prior to making the turn (which is required when the light is red). It now has sensors to be able to tell whether or not the car (1) slowed or (2) stopped prior to making a turn. So to answer your question, no a no right on red sign does not need to be present, only that the intersection is being monitored by camera enforcement. Making a complete stop at a red light prior to turning is covered in the DMV Driver's handbook.