Questions & Answers Regarding Red Light Citations

Q: Why Did I Get This Citation?

A vehicle, registered or leased to you, was photographed by an automatic camera connected to a traffic signal, that is only active when the light is red (not yellow or green).  Vehicles crossing the stop bar after the light turns red are detected automatically and two photographs are taken.  Superimposed on each photograph is the date, time, location and time into the red signal when the violation occurred.  An example of the superimposed data bar appears below.

Q: Is This Citation a "Traffic Ticket"?

No. This citation is not considered a "moving violation." It is a civil citation holding the registered owner or lessee responsible for the violation (similar to a parking ticket).

NO POINTS CAN BE ASSESSED FOR THIS VIOLATION AND IT WILL NOT RAISE YOUR INSURANCE RATES!

Q: Can I Contest This Violation?

Yes.  You may request to appear in District Court by completing the Request a Court Date form on the rear of your citation. The Request for Court Date form must be received at least five days prior to the “Due Date” shown on the front of your citation.  If you appear in Court, the maximum amount you can be charged is a $100 fine and court costs.  You will be notified by mail of the court date.  If you do not receive a notice within 30 days, call the Westminster Police Department at (410) 848-1638.

Q: How Do I Arrange for Accommodations for Persons with Disabilities?

Both the District Court and the Police Department will make any reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities.  Requests should be directed to the appropriate agency prior to visiting the facility.

WESTMINSTER POLICE DEPARTMENT

(410) 848-4646

Carroll County District Court

101 North Court Street, Westminster, Maryland 21157

(410) 871-3500

Maryland Relay 711

Toll-free Number (In-State only) 1-800-943-9396