Denis Leary had plenty to say about slowpokes driving in the left lane and now so do Florida legislators. A new law make it a ticketable offense to drive 10 or more miles below the speed limit in the left lane without getting out of the way for oncoming vehicles. We are interested to see how this pans out, given that we have devoted over 20 years to defending drivers for driving too fast, not too slow! Proponents claim that it will reduce road rage and accidents associated with drivers attempted to maneuver around slow-moving vehicles. The law went into effect on July 1. If you receive a ticket for driving too slowly and want to speak to an experienced traffic ticket attorney, call us at 1.800.CITATION.

Many police cars are equipped with small cameras that scan license plates. Through this invasion of our privacy, law enforcement officials claim they are able to locate stolen vehicles and apprehend individuals driving with a suspended license.

Most recently, the Sun Sentinel reported that the City of Fort Lauderdale is considering using cameras to catch license plates associated with unpaid parking tickets. The cameras would be attached to traffic enforcement vehicles and officers would boot cars with three or more unpaid parking tickets. This is the latest way for cash-strapped cities to try to generate revenue. The Sun Sentinel reports that a three hour test of the system netted the City of Fort Lauderdale $2,345.65, which included late fees and penalties.

Programs that scan license plates violate individual privacies. Notwithstanding claims about improving safety and catching the bad guys, these cameras are intended as revenue generators. Keep an eye out for the roving cameras and The Ticket Clinic will continue to bring you the latest news on this topic as the programs unfold.

Maybe you turned right at a red light, stopped over the line at the intersection, or passed through just as the light turned red. If so, you may come to receive a hefty fine in the mail if you have been found in violation of a red light camera. Understanding how these devices work and how to dispute them may help you prevent a steep fine, higher insurance premiums, and other consequences on your driving record.

Not all states and counties have red-light cameras in use. According to a report by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles in 2017, 63 Florida jurisdictions implement the use of these devices.

Red light cameras are a relatively new photo enforcement technology that is becoming increasingly prevalent in Florida intersections. These devices are used to automate the process of recording drivers committing a red light violation, serving as a major ally in prosecution. As a driver passes over a sensor in the intersection while the traffic signal is red, a camera is activated, taking pictures of the driver and their front license plate. After the violation is recorded, an enforcement program issues a citation, which is then mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle. The red light camera can also capture up to 12 seconds of video as further evidence of the crime committed.

Due to the timeliness of these photos, many drivers are caught “red-handed” in an illegal act, like passing through an intersection while the signal is red. Though these may seem like indisputable pieces of evidence, there are still ways for drivers cited by these cameras to fight the tickets.

While many states vary in who is held responsible when a red light camera captures a violation, in the state of Florida, the registered owner of the vehicle receives the bill. This means that if someone is borrowing your car and triggers a red light camera, you will likely be the one to receive the citation.

In some situations, like in the case of a recently-sold car under new ownership or a stolen vehicle, the citation issued can be dismissed with the submission of an affidavit. It is recommended that drivers seeking dismissal should consult a local attorney specializing in traffic tickets for proper guidance.

Red Light Cameras in the state of Florida capture a number of violations, many of which are accompanied by a citation in the mail issued to the owner of the car. Failing to make a complete stop when turning right at a red light, passing through an intersection while the light is red, or stopping in the middle of an intersection during a red light can all result in a Notice of Violation (essentially, a ticket in the mail). Legally, each of these violations will result in a citation for s, 316.075(1)(c)1., Fla.Stat., which mandates drivers to come to a complete stop before a red light. These violations are captured in both photo and video form by the red light camera.

It is important to note that not all photos that were taken result in a violation. For instance, breaking beyond the line at a red light may trigger a camera without a violation having occurred. Every image captured by a red light camera is eventually reviewed by a police officer, who will decide whether the driver was in violation of traffic laws.

Over the years, there have been many debates over the legality of police departments utilizing red light cameras provided by third-party vendors. Florida’s House approved a statewide ban on these devices in 2017, however, soon after the Florida Supreme Court ruled that red light cameras are legal and may be used in the interest of public safety.

Since the ruling, some cities in Florida have chosen to end their use of Red Light Cameras, while others continue to use them. For instance, in Palm Beach County, only Boynton Beach is currently using these cameras.

For the most accurate information regarding the locations of red light cameras, drivers should check their city’s website. Most cities post the location of cameras, the fines associated with citations issued from the cameras, and the process of receiving and paying or disputing a citation.

While some cities in Florida have refused to reactivate their cameras since the ruling in 2017, they are within their rights to reactivate them at any time. Your best course of action at any traffic signal is to obey state laws and wait until the light turns green.

Costs can vary depending on the county, but the typical cost for a red light camera ticket in Florida is $158. This fee can rise to $262 if you fail to pay the ticket after the first mailed notification.

If you receive a traffic ticket from a red light camera and do not choose to contest the citation, you must pay the fine listed on the ticket within 30 days of receiving it. If you do so, no points are added to your record. However, if you miss this deadline, not only will your fine increase, but you will also incur court costs and three points on your license.

Continuing to ignore the citation can result in the suspension of your license, even higher fines, and the fee of reinstating your driver’s license.

If you plan to contest the violation, your first step should be finding a local attorney that specializes in traffic tickets. An attorney can guide you through the legal red tape, ensure that all deadlines are met and all evidence is gathered and presented in the way that best represents your case.

A great way to increase your chances of reducing the fine or getting the charge dismissed entirely is to call the lawyers at The Ticket Clinic or hire us online. Since 1987, The Ticket Clinic has resolved over 3,000,000 traffic-related cases across the nation. Call 1-800-CITATION (1-800-248-2846) now for your free consultation!

Ever wonder what you are paying for when you pay your car insurance premiums? Here is an overview of the different kinds of insurance and what is generally covered.

Liability coverage – Almost every state requires drivers to have liability coverage to pay for damages that the insured causes to other drivers and their property. For example, Florida requires drivers to have a minimum of $10,000 of bodily injury coverage for one person injured in an accident and a minimum of $20,000 of coverage for all injuries in one accident. Florida further requires drivers to have $10,000 minimum in property liability for an accident.

Collision and comprehensive coverage pays for injuries to your car from either an accident with another car that you, the driver caused (collision), or another type of accident, such as fire or vandalism (comprehensive).

Uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage covers damages to you and your car if you are injured by a driver that does not have auto insurance. Some states require you to have this type of coverage. Check with your local DMV.

Many insurers also off additional insurance programs, such as coverage for a rental car or coverage for roadside assistance.

Each state’s laws differ on car insurance requirements. Moving this summer? Check with the local DMV in your new neighborhood to see what the requirements are in your state.

Last night, attorney Ted Hollander appeared on NBC6 to discuss police removal of Hialeah resident Juan Santana’s tag from his wife’s car parked outside his home. Santana filmed the entire event with his cell phone camera. According to The Ticket Clinic’s veteran traffic attorney, the removal was improper under Florida law because the car was not being operated. Check out the video here.

Maybe you turned right at a red light, stopped over the line at the intersection, or passed through just as the light turned red. If so, you may come to receive a hefty fine in the mail if you have been found in violation of a red light camera. Understanding how these devices work and how to dispute them may help you prevent a steep fine, higher insurance premiums, and other consequences on your driving record.

Not all states and counties have red-light cameras in use. According to a report by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles in 2017, 63 Florida jurisdictions implement the use of these devices.

Red light cameras are a relatively new photo enforcement technology that is becoming increasingly prevalent in Florida intersections. These devices are used to automate the process of recording drivers committing a red light violation, serving as a major ally in prosecution. As a driver passes over a sensor in the intersection while the traffic signal is red, a camera is activated, taking pictures of the driver and their front license plate. After the violation is recorded, an enforcement program issues a citation, which is then mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle. The red light camera can also capture up to 12 seconds of video as further evidence of the crime committed.

Due to the timeliness of these photos, many drivers are caught “red-handed” in an illegal act, like passing through an intersection while the signal is red. Though these may seem like indisputable pieces of evidence, there are still ways for drivers cited by these cameras to fight the tickets.

While many states vary in who is held responsible when a red light camera captures a violation, in the state of Florida, the registered owner of the vehicle receives the bill. This means that if someone is borrowing your car and triggers a red light camera, you will likely be the one to receive the citation.

In some situations, like in the case of a recently-sold car under new ownership or a stolen vehicle, the citation issued can be dismissed with the submission of an affidavit. It is recommended that drivers seeking dismissal should consult a local attorney specializing in traffic tickets for proper guidance.

Red Light Cameras in the state of Florida capture a number of violations, many of which are accompanied by a citation in the mail issued to the owner of the car. Failing to make a complete stop when turning right at a red light, passing through an intersection while the light is red, or stopping in the middle of an intersection during a red light can all result in a Notice of Violation (essentially, a ticket in the mail). Legally, each of these violations will result in a citation for s, 316.075(1)(c)1., Fla.Stat., which mandates drivers to come to a complete stop before a red light. These violations are captured in both photo and video form by the red light camera.

It is important to note that not all photos that were taken result in a violation. For instance, breaking beyond the line at a red light may trigger a camera without a violation having occurred. Every image captured by a red light camera is eventually reviewed by a police officer, who will decide whether the driver was in violation of traffic laws.

Over the years, there have been many debates over the legality of police departments utilizing red light cameras provided by third-party vendors. Florida’s House approved a statewide ban on these devices in 2017, however, soon after the Florida Supreme Court ruled that red light cameras are legal and may be used in the interest of public safety.

Since the ruling, some cities in Florida have chosen to end their use of Red Light Cameras, while others continue to use them. For instance, in Palm Beach County, only Boynton Beach is currently using these cameras.

For the most accurate information regarding the locations of red light cameras, drivers should check their city’s website. Most cities post the location of cameras, the fines associated with citations issued from the cameras, and the process of receiving and paying or disputing a citation.

While some cities in Florida have refused to reactivate their cameras since the ruling in 2017, they are within their rights to reactivate them at any time. Your best course of action at any traffic signal is to obey state laws and wait until the light turns green.

Costs can vary depending on the county, but the typical cost for a red light camera ticket in Florida is $158. This fee can rise to $262 if you fail to pay the ticket after the first mailed notification.

If you receive a traffic ticket from a red light camera and do not choose to contest the citation, you must pay the fine listed on the ticket within 30 days of receiving it. If you do so, no points are added to your record. However, if you miss this deadline, not only will your fine increase, but you will also incur court costs and three points on your license.

Continuing to ignore the citation can result in the suspension of your license, even higher fines, and the fee of reinstating your driver’s license.

If you plan to contest the violation, your first step should be finding a local attorney that specializes in traffic tickets. An attorney can guide you through the legal red tape, ensure that all deadlines are met and all evidence is gathered and presented in the way that best represents your case.

A great way to increase your chances of reducing the fine or getting the charge dismissed entirely is to call the lawyers at The Ticket Clinic or hire us online. Since 1987, The Ticket Clinic has resolved over 3,000,000 traffic-related cases across the nation. Call 1-800-CITATION (1-800-248-2846) now for your free consultation!

It’s summertime. So whether you’re a Ticket Clinic follower in Florida, California or elsewhere, it is probably warming up in your neck of the woods. This is a good time to remember to NEVER leave your pet unattended in a parked car. When the temperature is hot outside, it can get up to 30 degrees hotter in the car. Even a few minutes in a parked car can kill a man’s (or woman’s) best friend. So if you and your pet are making the rounds to the beach or pool, run all of your errands before you go or take your pet with you. Have a great summer!

One thing we hear a lot at The Ticket Clinic is “I didn’t know my license was suspended.” Generally people come to us after they have been pulled over and at that point, the potential penalties for driving with a suspended license can be more severe.

Here are some infractions that commonly result in a suspended license:

1) Failing to comply with a traffic summons, appear on a traffic summons or pay a fine.

2) Failing to complete court ordered traffic school or traffic school you elected to take but failed to attend.

3) Inadequate vision.

4) Obtaining too many points on your license – 12 points in 12 months, 18 points in 18 months or 24 points in 36 months will earn you a suspension anywhere from 30 days to one year.

5) Failing to maintain proper auto insurance. Florida has minimum car insurance requirements: at least $10,000 of coverage for personal injury protection and $10,000 in property damage liability.

5) Failing to pay child support.

If you have a suspended driver’s license and have questions about reinstating it, consider contacting The Ticket Clinic. Since 1987 we have been handling only traffic-related offenses, including DUI. Call us at 1.800.CITATION.

Many states have so-called open container laws, which make it illegal to have an open container of alcohol anywhere in the passenger compartment of a vehicle. If you are the driver of the vehicle, it is important for you to know that you can be cited under an open container law even if you are not the person consuming the alcohol.

In Florida, an open container is defined as “any container of alcoholic beverage which is immediately capable of being consumed from, or the seal of which has been broken.” So under Florida law, even an empty beer can can be considered an open container. If you are the driver of a vehicle where passengers have been drinking, it is in your best interest to ensure that no one bring a “to-go cup” into the car for the trip home. We said it but it bears repeating – even if you, the driver, are not consuming the alcohol, you run the risk of receiving a ticket under the open container laws. Penalties range from fines to a potential criminal conviction, so it is not worth the risk. If you are driving home from a party and have leftover alcohol, store it in a locked trunk to ensure you are in compliance with the law.

If you are cited for having an open container, whether as the driver or the passenger, you may want to talk to an experienced traffic ticket attorney to assist you. The penalties for open container violations can be severe so before you go at it alone, consider having a lawyer in your corner. The Ticket Clinic has defended over 1 million traffic-related offenses, including open container violations and DUI. Call us at 1.800.CITATION.

In recent news, the Florida legislature created a way to appeal red light camera tickets. The new bill also creates an appeals process for fighting red light camera violations (NOVs). The new bill also creates an appeals process for fighting red light camera violations before they become a Uniform Traffic Citation (UTC). Under the current law, in order to fight a red light camera ticket, a driver must purposely not pay the original ticket, which is an administrative violation issued by a city or county, and have a UTC issued by the State of Florida. Then the driver can seek a hearing in traffic court. The problem with this process is that at UTC carries higher fines if you are found guilty.

While the new bill claims to be offering an opportunity to appeal the red light ticket, we believe that the new bill merely seeks to create loopholes for the cities and counties at the expense of citizens. Under the new bill, the city or county that issued the ticket appoints a hearing officer, not a judge. The hearing officer works for the same entity that issued the ticket, raising significant questions about impartiality. The hearing office is not required to be a lawyer, nor is the officer even required to have any legal training! Second, the rules of evidence do not apply in these administrative hearings. This is particularly problematic because drivers, or their attorneys, cannot, under the new law, question whether the cameras were properly calibrated or whether the pictures were properly transmitted. At The Ticket Clinic, we have successfully defended thousands of red light camera violations based upon the rules of evidence. In an effort to continue to raise revenues at the expense of its citizens, Florida’s new law seeks to strip drivers of due process by eliminating the rules of evidence from the proceeding! Fortunately, the new law does not eliminate the old process, allowing those who receive a red light camera violation to ignore the first ticket and receive a UTC, which allows them to appear before a real judge, rather than a puppet of the city or county. While it remains to be seen whether this bill will become law in Florida, it is important to remember that you can fight a red light camera violation. If you receive a violation and wish to fight it, consider talking to an experienced traffic ticket attorney. The Ticket Clinic is leading the red light camera fight. Call us at 1.800.CITATION with questions.