What You Should Know About a Chicago Red Light Ticket

A Chicago red-light ticket can be a costly and stressful experience. If you’ve received one recently, or want to avoid getting one in the future, our car accident law firm has put together this handy guide to answer your questions.

How Much Is a Red-Light Ticket in the City of Chicago?

Chicago imposes hefty fines for red light violations. In cases where a driver runs a red light the fine is $100.

For exceeding the speed limit by 6-10 MPH, the penalty is $35. If your vehicle’s recorded speed exceeds the limit by 11 MPH or more, the fine increases to $100.

Failing to pay these fines on time will result in a late payment fee which will double the amount paid.

Can I View Red Light Camera Footage?

Yes, if you think you’ve received a red light or speed violation in Illinois but don’t want to wait for the ticket, you can check for the violation online. The website allows you to search for parking tickets, view photos and videos of violations, and contest a ticket if necessary.

How Long Does the Red-Light Camera Video Stay Available?

The 24-hour stream of the red-light intersections is available for 30 days, while footage of violations can be viewed for up to two years. There’s a limited time to dispute a ticket.

Can I Ignore a Red-Light Traffic Camera Ticket in Chicago?

No. Evading payment for tickets can result in doubled fines and potential penalties, including the towing of your vehicle and suspension of your driver’s license in Illinois. It’s important to pay tickets promptly to avoid escalating consequences.

Can I Dispute a Red-Light Ticket in Chicago?

Yes, you can request an in-person hearing date by phone to contest a red-light ticket, but there are limited qualifying defenses available.

Call the City of Chicago’s Ticket Helpline at 312-744-7275 or 312-744-7277 (TTY – Hearing Impaired).

How Long Do I Have to Pay a Red-Light Ticket in Chicago?

In Chicago, you have 21 days to pay or contest a ticket; failing to do so will double the fine. It’s crucial to note the payment due date upon receiving the ticket to avoid increased penalties for unpaid tickets.

How Long Does It Take to Receive a Red-Light Ticket in Illinois?

If you saw a flash at an intersection, a red-light camera may have captured your license plate. Expect a ticket and notice to be sent to the vehicle and registered owner who’s registered address within five to seven business days.

Where Are the Red Light Cameras In Chicago?

The Chicago Department of Transportation offers the Chicago Traffic Tracker which provides real-time updates on traffic, speed camera locations, and congestion information. Red light camera intersections are clearly marked with signs indicating if they are “photo enforced.”

What Happens if the Light Turns Yellow or Red When I Am Still in the Intersection?

If you find yourself already in the intersection when the light turns yellow, you should have ample time to safely clear it.

Yellow lights in Chicago have intervals of three seconds when the speed limit is 30 miles per hour or lower, and four seconds when it is 35 miles per hour or higher. This ensures smooth traffic flow, adherence to national safety regulations, and provides ample time for vehicles to stop at an intersection. The city of Chicago has used this timing on yellow lights for several decades.

What Is Considered a Red Light Violation?

According to Illinois law, drivers are required to obey all traffic signals and signs. Running red lights or performing a rolling stop while making a right hand turn on red are red light violations.

Will I Get a Red-Light Ticket for a Rolling Stop?

Yes. Rolling through a red light—failing to stop at a red light—can result in red light tickets. To avoid a ticket for a right turn on red, make sure to come to a full stop first.

Do Red Light Camera Tickets Go on My Record in Illinois?

No, they don’t. In Illinois, red light camera tickets don’t affect your driving record or insurance rates, as they are not considered moving violations. They are similar to parking tickets in this regard.

Can Red Light Camera Footage Help Me Prove Fault in a Car Accident?

If you’re injured in an accident and you think a red light camera may have caught the other driver committing a traffic violation, it is possible the footage may help your case.

We can assess your case to find evidence like video footage of traffic accidents or images from red light cameras to support your claim and maximize the value of your case.