How it works - Page 1

Beat Tickets! - How it Works

Photo traffic enforcement is used with several different methods, but all use a computerized photo system.

Photo radar is set to photograph vehicles traveling above a predetermined speed. The system measures your speed and takes your picture if you're traveling over a set limit (5 to 10 miles-per-hour over the speed limit).

Some fixed speed cameras use sensors that are embedded in the roadway to measure your speed.

And red light camera also use sensors in the roadway to capture your violation.

The results are reviewed and a ticket is mailed to you. Each negative contains the date, time, location and vehicle speed. The photo radar company develops the film and gets the owner information.

If the license plate is legible and the driver's face visible, the company mails the vehicle owner a summons. The summons usually gives three options; pay a fine, appear in court to contest the violation, or identify who the driver is, if not the owner.

The company provides expert witnesses to the cities for cases that go to court. For this service the company receives a share of fines paid in addition to the cost of their contract with the city. It is in the best interest of the company to testify against you in court, and it usually means additional pay for them.

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