PRACTICE AREAS

Red Light Violation Lawyer in Renton, Washington
 

At Duncan Law, PLLC, we are experienced in defending clients against red light violations in Washington State. If you've received a red light ticket, we can help you navigate the legal process, potentially reduce fines, and minimize the impact on your driving record. Contact us today at 206-237-7714 or visit our website at Duncan Law, PLLC to schedule a consultation.
 

Understanding Red Light Violations in Washington State

Red light violations in Washington State can result from either being caught by a police officer or through automated traffic safety cameras. These infractions can lead to fines, potential impacts on your driving record, and increased insurance premiums.
 

Types of Red Light Violations
 

1. Traditional Red Light Tickets: Issued by law enforcement officers who witness the violation.

2. Red Light Camera Tickets: Issued through automated traffic safety cameras at intersections.
    

Red Light Camera Tickets: What You Need to Know
 

Red light camera tickets in Washington State are treated differently from traditional traffic infractions:
 

• They are legally equivalent to parking tickets.

• They do not get reported to insurance companies or the Washington Department of Licensing.

• They do not affect your driver's license status.

• Failure to respond or pay will not result in a license suspension, but may lead to collections action and a hold on vehicle registration.
   

Fines and Penalties
 

The maximum penalty for a red light camera violation in Washington State cannot exceed $145 per incident, adjusted for inflation every five years. However, traditional red light tickets issued by police officers may carry higher fines and impact your driving record.
 

Why Hire a Red Light Violation Lawyer?
 

Hiring a red light violation lawyer can provide several advantages:
 

• Knowledge: We understand the nuances of traffic laws and can identify potential defenses.

• Reduced Penalties: We can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce fines and points on your driving record for traditional tickets.

• Court Representation: We will represent you in court, saving you time and stress.

• Protection of Driving Record: For traditional tickets, we can help prevent the violation from appearing on your driving record.
   

Our Legal Services
 

At Duncan Law, PLLC, we offer comprehensive legal services for individuals facing red light violations, including:
 

• Case Evaluation: We provide an initial consultation to discuss your case and determine the best course of action.

• Defense Strategy Development: We develop a personalized defense strategy based on the specifics of your case.

• Negotiation: We negotiate with prosecutors to seek reductions or alternative outcomes.

• Court Representation: We represent you in court, presenting a strong defense to protect your rights and interests.
   

Frequently Asked Questions
 

1. Can I contest a red light camera ticket?

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Yes, you can contest a red light camera ticket. However, it's important to note that these tickets are treated similarly to parking tickets and don't impact your driving record.

2. What if I wasn't the driver when the red light camera ticket was issued?

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If you weren't driving, you can submit a declaration of non-responsibility. 
 

3. How do red light camera tickets differ from traditional red light tickets?

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Red light camera tickets don't affect your driving record or insurance rates, while traditional tickets issued by officers can have these impacts.
 

4. Is it worth hiring a lawyer for a red light camera ticket?
 

For red light camera tickets, the cost of hiring a lawyer may outweigh the potential benefits since these tickets don't affect your driving record or insurance rates. However, for traditional red light tickets issued by officers, legal representation can be valuable.
 

5. Can the fine for a red light violation be reduced?

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For traditional tickets, a lawyer may be able to negotiate a reduced fine. 
 

Recent Changes in Washington State Law
 

A new law signed in 2024 expands the use of traffic cameras in Washington State. Key points include:
 

• Allows greater use of traffic cameras by cities and counties.

• Permits use of cameras to detect vehicles failing to stop at crosswalks or traveling in bus lanes.

• Requires cities and counties to report revenue collected from violations and how it's spent.
   

Contact Duncan Law, PLLC for Red Light Violation Defense
 

If you're facing a red light violation in Washington State, don't hesitate to seek legal help. At Duncan Law, PLLC, we have the experience and knowledge to provide you with a robust defense for traditional red light tickets.Contact us today at 206-237-7714 or visit our website at Duncan Law, PLLC to schedule a confidential consultation. We're here to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome in your case. Remember, while we offer expert defense for traditional red light tickets, we generally don't recommend hiring a lawyer for red light camera tickets due to their limited impact on your driving record and the potential cost-benefit imbalance. However, we're always available to discuss your specific situation and provide guidance on the best course of action.

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