New Jersey Traffic Ticket Lawyer

Running Red Light Violations

According to NJSA 39:4-81, "The driver of every vehicle...shall obey the instructions of any official traffic control device applicable thereto, placed in accordance with the provisions of this chapter, unless otherwise directed by a traffic or police officer." The law goes on to state, "When, by reason of a power failure or other malfunction, a traffic control signal at an intersection is not illuminated, the driver of a vehicle or street car shall, with respect to that intersection, observe the requirement for a stop intersection, as provided in R.S.39:4-144."

Municipalities have the authority under a pilot program established by N. J. S. A. 39:4-8.14 to use red light camera systems to issue summonses for running a red light if certain preconditions are met. Under the statute a vehicle's registered owner along with the operator may be held to account for a violation. The owner may defend against the charge by showing that the vehicle was used without his or her consent, expressed or implied. The owner of a vehicle leased to an operator may avoid liability by providing proper notice to the court of their lessor status and the name and address of the lessee. No MVC points or insurance eligibility points are assessed for a red light camera violation.

Penalties for Running a Red Light

A violation for ignoring a traffic signal carries a fine of from $50 to $200, which must be doubled if it occurred in a construction zone. Two Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) points and two insurance eligibility points will be imposed, and a jail term of up to 15 days may also be imposed. If you have other violations the consequences can be even more severe.

There may be viable defenses to a traffic light charge based on the circumstances in a particular case. This determination requires a review of all of the relevant facts. We are committed to doing this in every case we become involved in. Contact us for the legal advice you need to properly address your charge.

The above information should not be taken as legal advice and is intended solely for your information. Many legal principals and factual considerations that may be important to your case have not been included.

If you are charged with running a red light, it is important to contact a New Jersey traffic ticket lawyer for legal assistance.