William Gary | April 2, 2025 | Car Accident Lawyer Near Nashville Tennessee
Traffic and Red Light Cameras in Tennessee
Receiving a red light camera ticket in Nashville, Tennessee, can be both frustrating and confusing. Many drivers are caught off guard when they receive one in the mail. Read on to learn how these tickets work and how they may impact legal matters beyond simple fines.
Understanding the Difference Between Red Light Cameras and Other Traffic Cameras
In Tennessee, the term “traffic cameras” is often used broadly but encompasses different types of monitoring systems:
- Red light cameras: Designed exclusively to capture vehicles running red lights at intersections.
- Speed enforcement cameras: These are used to monitor and penalize drivers who exceed the speed limit.
- General surveillance cameras: These are installed to observe traffic flow and roadway conditions but are not used for issuing citations.
Each type of camera serves a different function, and enforcement policies vary by municipality.
How Traffic Cameras Work and Their Legal Status in Tennessee
Traffic enforcement cameras monitor and capture images of vehicles that violate traffic laws. The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) enforces strict regulations on using traffic cameras.
The two main types of enforcement cameras in Tennessee are:
- Red light cameras activate when a vehicle enters an intersection after the traffic signal turns red. In Tennessee, red light cameras typically capture images of the vehicle and its license plate but do not record an image of the driver. This is because citations are issued to the registered owner of the vehicle rather than the individual operating it at the time of the violation.
- Speed enforcement cameras detect and document vehicles exceeding the posted speed limit. These cameras are typically positioned in high-risk areas to deter reckless driving. Citations are issued to the vehicle’s registered owner rather than the driver driving at the time of the violation.
The legal status of traffic cameras in Tennessee has evolved over time. In 2015, the state legislature passed a law prohibiting the installation of new fixed speed enforcement cameras, though preexisting systems were allowed to operate until their contracts expired.
Some exceptions remain. Mobile speed cameras may still be utilized under specific regulations, particularly in school zones and construction areas.
What to Do When You Receive a Red-Light Ticket
If you receive a red-light camera citation in the mail, you have several options:
- Pay the ticket online through the city’s payment system, which is generally considered an admission of responsibility.
- Contest the ticket by requesting a hearing and presenting evidence.
- Submit documentation proving the citation was issued in error.
Before deciding how to proceed, carefully review the ticket for accuracy. Some common defenses include:
- The camera system malfunctioned.
- Someone else was operating the vehicle.
- The citation lacks clear evidence of a violation.
- Required signage was not posted or visible at the intersection.
To challenge a citation, you may need to gather supporting evidence such as:
- Photos of the intersection.
- Witness statements.
- Weather reports for the date and time in question.
When contesting a red light or speed camera ticket in Tennessee, the burden of proof typically falls on the issuing municipality. The city must demonstrate that the automated system was properly maintained, accurately calibrated, and legally authorized to enforce the citation.
How Violations Affect Your Record
Unlike traditional traffic stops, most camera-issued citations in Tennessee don’t add points to your driving record. They’re typically treated as non-moving violations, similar to parking tickets. However, this doesn’t mean you should ignore them. Unpaid tickets can result in serious consequences.
These consequences often include:
- Additional late fees
- Collection actions
- Potential issues when renewing vehicle registration
Each municipality handles enforcement differently, so check the specific rules in your area.
The Future of Traffic Cameras in Tennessee
Public opinion on traffic enforcement cameras remains divided. Supporters argue they improve safety at dangerous intersections, while critics question their effectiveness and constitutional implications. As technology improves, we may see new ways these systems work. Some cities are considering options that focus more on driver education than fines.
Contact the Nashville Car Accident Attorneys at Labrum Law Firm Personal Injury Lawyers Today
For more information, please contact the Nashville car accident law firm of Labrum Law Firm Personal Injury Lawyers, to schedule a free consultation today.
We proudly serve Nashville, Brentwood, and its surrounding areas in Tennessee:
Labrum Law Firm Personal Injury Lawyers – Nashville
315 Deaderick St, Suite 1525
Nashville, TN 37238
(615) 338-9500
Labrum Law Firm Personal Injury Lawyers – Brentwood
320 Seven Springs Way, Suite 250
Brentwood, TN 37027
(615) 338-9500
