Running a Red Light in North Carolina: What Are the Penalties?
If you recently ran a red light, you might be concerned about the potential penalties. Perhaps you just committed this infraction and noticed the “flash” of a traffic camera capturing your license plate. Maybe an officer pulled you over for this violation and gave you a ticket. Whatever the case may be, it makes sense to fully understand this North Carolina traffic offense in order to approach it in a confident manner.
You Face a $100 Fine for Running a Red Light in North Carolina
The normal fine for running a red light in North Carolina is $100. This is one of the higher traffic fines, and it is higher than those associated with minor offenses like speeding slightly over the limit. In comparison, a stop sign violation typically leads to a fine of just $50. Note that this $100 fee is only the “base fine,” and your total losses could rise much higher when you account for court expenses, assessments, and so on.
You Also Get Points Added to Your License
A red light violation will also add points to your license. As many drivers are undoubtedly aware, too many points on your license can eventually lead to a suspension. As a result, a red light violation could potentially lead to an automatic suspension if you have prior traffic offenses on your record. A red light violation adds more points to your license than many other traffic offenses. For example, forgetting your driver’s license at home results in only one point.
Your Insurance Premiums Could Go Up
One of the more subtle effects of a red light violation in North Carolina is an increase in insurance costs. Run a red light, and your insurer might assume that you’re a dangerous driver. As a result, you become a higher calculated risk in the eyes of the insurance company, and they’ll increase your premiums in order to reduce that financial risk. These premium increases may be shocking for some, and you might discover that you’re now paying 50% more each month (or higher).
Can You Fight a Red Light Violation in North Carolina?
Yes, it is possible to “fight” your red light violation in North Carolina. This could be a particularly important goal if your ticket “pushed you over the edge” and put too many points on your license. However, many shrewd drivers challenge their red light tickets in order to keep their premiums low.
If you want to fight your red light ticket violation, you should contact an experienced lawyer. These legal professionals can guide you through the next steps and potentially represent you during a hearing.
Can a North Carolina Traffic Offense Lawyer Help Me?
Although some may be content to simply pay the fine, others might decide to fight a traffic ticket in North Carolina. This could be particularly helpful if your recent traffic ticket will cause you to lose your license. A traffic ticket could also increase your insurance premiums. To discuss the next steps, consider speaking with an Asheville traffic offense lawyer at The Pritchard Firm at your earliest convenience.
Source:
ncleg.gov/enactedlegislation/statutes/pdf/bysection/chapter_20/gs_20-158.pdf