Understanding Camera Violations and Legal Obligations in Arizona: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

If you receive a camera violation in the mail in Arizona, but were not personally served, does this mean you have to pay the ticket or go to court? This guide will explore the legal processes and obligations related to camera violations for Arizona drivers, providing clarity on what to do when receiving such notifications.

What Constitutes a Valid Violation Notice?

Any violation notice you receive, whether via mail or any other form, is merely a receipt. Simply throwing it away does not erase the actual citation. Your violation is recorded in city databases and is a traffic ticket, not a court subpoena. The process of serving a citation can be done through the mail, making it valid even if not handed to you in person.

Arizona’s Two-Stage Process

Arizona follows a two-stage process for camera violations:

Stage One: Notification - A violation notice is sent to you. Stage Two: Court Appearance (if necessary) - If you disagree with the citation, you may appear in court to contest it.

According to the information provided, it seems that the specific details of the second stage depend on the specific notice you have received.

Evaluation of Red Light Camera Installation Benefits

While advocates may claim that Red Light cameras reduce the risk of accidents, research indicates that adding one extra second to the yellow light timing is more effective than the cameras. This modification does not require additional equipment, maintenance costs, or additional personnel to review footage and issue citations. The primary purpose of installing these cameras is to increase revenue for the city, rather than enhance safety.

Jeff Kirk’s argument highlights the financial incentive behind camera installations, rather than the safety improvements they are often marketed for.

Legal Consequences of Ignoring Mail Violations

In California, the state DMV no longer suspends driver licenses due to failure to pay fines, effective from 2018. However, Arizona may still follow a different procedure. If you ignore the violation notice, the fine will increase, and the situation can escalate. Failing to pay can result in:

A significant increase in fines and penalties. Issuance of a wheel boot or vehicle tow. A warrant for your arrest. An increased likelihood of arrest during a routine traffic stop.

It is advisable to either pay the ticket or attend traffic school, or if necessary, contest the citation in court.

Legal Obligations and Personal Service

For ordinary moving violations, parking tickets, and similar offenses, personal service is not required. However, if there are specific Arizona rules regarding criminal procedure, you should check them. Generally, one must be personally served before a case commences. If this rule applies in Arizona, you can legally ignore the ticket.

Conclusion

Understanding the legal processes and your obligations is crucial if you receive a camera violation in the mail in Arizona. The law requires you to either pay the ticket or contest it in court. Ignoring the citation can result in escalating consequences, including increased fines, a warrant for your arrest, and potential vehicular impoundment. Stay informed and take appropriate action to manage your traffic violations effectively.