Should You Seek Mitigation on a Red Light Camera Ticket
My question involves a traffic ticket from the state of: Washington
I recently received a notice of infraction from the city of Bellevue for making a right turn on red without coming to a complete stop beforehand.
I know that this infraction is treated as a parking ticket and will not go on my driving record(because they don't know who was driving), however, I'm wondering If I go to a mitigation hearing and I present the circumstances, including that I was driving the car, could they put this on my driving record(because I admitted it was me who committed the violation)?
Is this legal, not legal or gray area ? Have you ever heard about this being done ?
Also, are there any other possible negative consequences of going to a mitigation hearing instead of paying the ticket as-is ?
Thanks!
Re: Any Possible Disadvantages to Mitigation of a Red Light Camera Ticket in Wa
The ticket can never be more than what is written on the NOI. The judge cannot impose a new penalty.
A mitigation hearing is admitting that you have committed the infraction. Regardless of what you say in court, you have already admitted fault.
Photo Violations are not part of your driving record and can never be included on your driving record.
Re: Any Possible Disadvantages to Mitigation of a Red Light Camera Ticket in Wa
Thanks for your response!
One more thing, If I request a mitigation hearing and can't make it, what are the consequences for this? Extra penalties ? Will I be reported to the DOL ?
Best!
Re: Any Possible Disadvantages to Mitigation of a Red Light Camera Ticket in Wa
If you haven't already paid the ticket, failure to appear for the mitigation hearing will result in you being found liable for the entire fine PLUS $52.
If you aren't going to make it, it behooves you to pay the ticket before your hearing date.
Re: Any Possible Disadvantages to Mitigation of a Red Light Camera Ticket in Wa
Thanks! One more question: What approach would be recommended for getting maximum "mitigation" out of the hearing ?
The video shows my car slowing down, not coming to a full stop, then proceeding to make a right turn ( all of this while the light was red ).
Re: Any Possible Disadvantages to Mitigation of a Red Light Camera Ticket in Wa
Mitigation will generally net you a lowered fine, subject to some minimum amount. These violations are treated like parking tickets; they don't go on your record, so there is no reason not to mitigate if you are admitting guilt to the infraction.