Most violations of the Texas Traffic Code are classified as Class C misdemeanors. Someone convicted of this level of offense doesn’t face the threat of imprisonment. Instead, Texas law only authorizes a fine of up to $500.
Because of the wording of the law, the fine you might face for a red light ticket depends on your location and, in some counties, the judge overseeing your case.
How Much Is a Red Light Ticket?
Most Texas counties publish a uniform traffic fine schedule. This list includes the fines imposed by municipal court judges for traffic infractions.
The fines for a red light ticket vary widely across the state. The following examples are from three of the largest and most populous counties in Texas:
- $155 fine in Harris County
- $290 fine in Bexar County
- $286 fine in Travis County
Burnet County doesn’t publish a uniform traffic fine schedule. It may have an internal fine schedule that it doesn’t release publicly, or it may give municipal court judges discretion to determine fines on a case-by-case basis. Either way, the county provides no public information about the fine for a red light violation.
However, based on the fines in other counties and the $500 limit imposed by Texas law, one can surmise that a judge in Burnet County might impose a fine between $100 and $300. Additionally, courts can charge administrative fees and court costs on top of any financial penalties imposed.
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General Processes for Receiving a Red Light Ticket
Police officers typically issue red light tickets in two situations.
First, an officer who observes a traffic violation can stop the driver and issue a citation. Second, an officer can issue a citation after an investigation reveals that a red light violation caused an accident.
You can receive a red light ticket after violating either of the following rules when facing a steady red signal:
- Stop at the stop line or before the crosswalk if there’s no stop line
- Remain stopped until the light turns green
Texas allows right turns on red lights. However, drivers must stop as required and yield the right of way to pedestrians and cross-traffic vehicles before turning.
Texas law prohibits cities and counties from using automated cameras to issue traffic citations. Consequently, you shouldn’t receive a red light camera ticket in Texas.
Liability for Red Light Accidents
In addition to the criminal penalties for running a red light, drivers may also be liable for any car accidents they cause. Negligence is the determining factor for liability for crashes in Texas.
Your lawyer must generally prove the following four elements to establish negligence:
- Duty of care
- Breach of duty
- Causal link between the breach and the subsequent injury
- Actual harm or loss
The duty of care applies to all road users, including drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. They must follow traffic laws and exercise reasonable care for the safety of others. For example, someone traveling on foot who ignores a red light by jaywalking would likely be responsible for a resulting pedestrian accident, including any vehicle damage or driver injuries.
Similarly, a driver who disobeys a red light would likely bear liability if they strike another vehicle, a pedestrian, or a cyclist. In this case, they (or their auto insurer) would be required to pay for the resulting injuries and property damage.
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Resolving Red Light Tickets in Burnet
Red light violations can lead to both criminal and civil liability. However, fines for red light tickets are capped at $500 in Texas. Therefore, the civil liability for a crash is often much greater than any fines imposed.
To learn more, contact Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers today at (713) 500-5000 to schedule a free consultation with a Houston personal injury attorney.
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About the Author
Attorney Brian White is the founding partner of Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers in Houston, TX. A graduate of Texas A&M University and South Texas College of Law, he is Board Certified in Personal Injury Trial Law — a distinction held by only a small percentage of Texas attorneys, with years of experience handling a wide range of personal injury cases, including car accidents, truck accidents, maritime injuries, wrongful death, and more. He is dedicated to thorough preparation, strong advocacy, and helping accident victims secure the compensation they deserve.
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