Red light cameras are a fact of life in Chicago, and understanding how they work — and what to do when you receive a ticket — can save you time, money, and serious headaches. Whether you’re dealing with a fine or were injured in an accident where a red light camera may have captured the at-fault driver, Riz Injury Law is here to help you navigate what comes next.
Things You Should Know About a Chicago Red Light Ticket
How Much Is a Red Light Ticket in the City of Chicago?
Chicago imposes hefty fines for red light violations. For running a red light (violation code 9-102-020), the fine is $100. For exceeding the speed limit by 6–10 mph (violation code 9-101-020), 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 you must pay. Do not ignore these notices — the consequences compound quickly.
Can I View Red Light Camera Footage?
Yes. If you believe you’ve received a red light or speed violation in Illinois but haven’t received the ticket yet, you can check for the violation online. The City of Chicago’s online portal allows you to:
- Search for parking and traffic tickets
- View photos and videos of violations
- Contest a ticket if necessary
Reviewing the footage early gives you the best chance to build a dispute if you believe the ticket was issued in error.
How Long Does the Red Light Camera Video Stay Available?
The 24-hour stream of red light intersection camera enforcement is available for 30 days, while footage of specific violations can be viewed for up to two years. That said, there is a limited window to formally dispute a ticket, so act promptly once you receive a notice.
Can I Ignore a Red Light Traffic Camera Ticket in Chicago?
No. Skipping ticket payments can lead to doubled fines and serious penalties, including having your vehicle towed or your driver’s license suspended in Illinois. Make sure to pay tickets on time to avoid these escalating consequences.
Can I Dispute a Red Light Ticket in Chicago?
Yes. You can request an in-person hearing to challenge a red light ticket, but only a few specific defenses are eligible under Chicago municipal rules.
To request a hearing or get more information, contact the City of Chicago’s Ticket Helpline:
- 312-744-7275
- 312-744-7277 (for the hearing impaired)
- Hours: Monday through Friday, 7 a.m.–7 p.m. Central Time
Be prepared with any evidence that supports your case, including photos, witness statements, or documentation showing you were not the driver.
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 act within that window will double the fine. As soon as you receive a ticket, note the payment due date and decide quickly whether you want to pay or dispute.
How Long Does It Take to Receive a Red Light Ticket in Illinois?
If you noticed 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 registered owner’s 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 conditions, speed camera locations, and congestion information. Red light camera intersections are clearly marked with signs indicating they are “photo-enforced,” so drivers have fair warning before entering monitored intersections.
What Happens If the Light Turns Yellow or Red When I Am Already in the Intersection?
If you are already in the intersection when the light turns yellow, you should have ample time to clear it safely.
In Chicago:
- Yellow lights last three seconds when the speed limit is 30 mph or less
- Yellow lights last four seconds when the speed limit is 35 mph or more
This timing is designed to help traffic flow smoothly, meet national safety standards, and give drivers adequate time to stop or safely clear the intersection.
What Is Considered a Red Light Violation?
Under Illinois law, drivers are required to obey all traffic signals and signs. The following actions constitute red light violations:
- Running a red light — entering an intersection after the light has turned red
- Rolling stop on a right turn — failing to come to a complete stop before turning right on red
Both violations can be captured by automated camera systems and result in fines.
Will I Get a Red Light Ticket for a Rolling Stop?
Yes. Rolling through a red light — failing to come to a complete stop — can result in a red light camera ticket. To avoid a ticket when making a right turn on red, always come to a full and complete stop before proceeding. Even a slow roll is enough to trigger the camera system.
Do Red Light Camera Tickets Go on My Driving Record in Illinois?
No, they do not. In Illinois, red light camera tickets will not impact your driving record or insurance rates because they are not classified as moving violations. They are treated more like parking tickets — a financial penalty, but not a mark against your license.
This is an important distinction for drivers concerned about rate increases or license points. However, unpaid tickets can still lead to license suspension and vehicle registration blocks, so don’t ignore them simply because they won’t appear on your record.
Can Red Light Camera Footage Help Me Prove Fault in a Car Accident?
Yes — and this is where red light camera evidence can be especially valuable beyond just traffic enforcement.
If you were injured in a car accident and believe the at-fault driver ran a red light, it is possible that the intersection’s camera system captured the violation on video. This footage can serve as powerful, objective evidence in a personal injury claim.
The attorneys at Riz Injury Law can assess your case and work to identify and obtain available traffic camera footage, intersection images, and other evidence tied to the traffic signal system. This documentation can help establish fault, support your claims, and maximize the value of your case.
Injured in a Chicago Car Accident? Riz Injury Law Can Help.
Red light camera footage doesn’t just catch traffic violators — it can be the key piece of evidence that proves another driver caused your accident and your injuries. If you or a loved one was hurt in a crash in Chicago or anywhere in Illinois, the attorneys at Riz Injury Law are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.
We understand how overwhelming the aftermath of a serious accident can be. Our team handles the investigation, the evidence gathering, and the legal strategy — so you can focus on your recovery.
Contact Riz Injury Law today for a free consultation. There are no fees unless we win your case.
Injured and have questions? The attorneys at Riz Injury Law offer free consultations — call (312) 546-5109.