Red light cameras are a common sight at intersections across Ontario. They are designed to improve road safety by capturing images of vehicles that run red lights. But if you receive a red light camera ticket, one of the biggest concerns is whether it will affect your auto insurance rates. Unlike traditional traffic violations, red light camera tickets work differently, leading many drivers to wonder about their impact on insurance premiums.

In Ontario, the rules around traffic tickets and insurance rates can be complex. Not all violations result in higher premiums, but it’s crucial to understand how red light camera fines fit into the equation. This article will explore whether a red light camera ticket affects your car insurance in Ontario, how insurers view traffic violations, and what drivers should be aware of when handling these fines. Got a red light camera ticket in Ontario? While it won’t impact your insurance rates directly, staying informed about your driving record is key to keeping premiums low. At Aaxel Insurance, we help you navigate the fine print and find the best coverage for your needs—reach out today for expert advice!

Understanding Red Light Camera Tickets in Ontario

What is a Red Light Camera Ticket?

A red light camera ticket is an automated traffic violation issued when a vehicle is caught running a red light at an intersection monitored by a camera. Unlike a traditional traffic ticket given by a police officer, these violations are detected by sensors and cameras, which capture a photograph of the vehicle’s license plate.

Key aspects of a red light camera ticket:

• The ticket is mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle, not necessarily the driver.
• The fine for a red light camera ticket in Ontario is $325, which includes a victim fine surcharge and court fees.
• There are no demerit points associated with this violation.
• The ticket does not go on the driver’s record, only on the vehicle’s record.

Because these tickets are issued to the vehicle owner rather than the driver, they differ from other moving violations that could impact a driver’s insurance. However, many people still wonder: Will a Red Light Camera Ticket Affect Insurance in Ontario?

Do Red Light Camera Tickets Affect Insurance in Ontario?

One of the most important things to understand about red light camera tickets is that they are treated as non-moving violations. Unlike speeding tickets or careless driving charges, which add demerit points to a driver’s record, these tickets do not involve a driving conviction.

Why Red Light Camera Tickets Don’t Affect Insurance

• No Driver Identification: Since the ticket is issued to the vehicle owner, there is no way to prove who was driving at the time of the offense. Ontario insurance companies assess risk based on driver records, not vehicle records.
• No Demerit Points: Insurance companies typically increase rates for infractions that add demerit points to a driver’s license. Because red light camera tickets do not carry demerit points, they are not considered when calculating insurance premiums.
• Not Reported to Insurance Companies: Red light camera tickets are not recorded on a driver’s Motor Vehicle Report (MVR), meaning they are not visible to insurers when they review a policy.

Thus, if you receive a red light camera ticket in Ontario, it will not affect your insurance rates. This is a key distinction from police-issued tickets, which can have long-term consequences on auto insurance costs.

How Do Insurance Companies Determine Your Premiums?

While a red light camera ticket won’t increase your car insurance premiums, other violations can. Insurers in Ontario use various factors to assess risk and determine rates, including:

Factors That Impact Car Insurance Rates

If you are concerned about keeping your insurance rates low, avoiding infractions like speeding tickets, reckless driving, or at-fault accidents is more important than worrying about a red light camera fine.

What Happens If You Don’t Pay a Red Light Camera Ticket?

Although a red light camera ticket does not impact your insurance premiums, ignoring it can lead to consequences. If the fine is not paid by the due date, it may result in additional penalties.

Consequences of Not Paying a Red Light Camera Ticket

• Inability to Renew License Plate: In Ontario, unpaid traffic fines can prevent you from renewing your vehicle’s registration or license plate sticker.
• Additional Late Fees: The court may impose extra charges if the ticket remains unpaid for an extended period.
• Legal Action: Unpaid fines can be sent to collections, which may impact your credit score.

While the fine itself won’t increase your insurance rates, it is still crucial to pay it on time to avoid administrative hassles.

How to Avoid Red Light Camera Tickets

Since red light camera violations come with a hefty $325 fine, it’s best to avoid them altogether. Here are some simple yet effective ways to ensure you don’t get caught by a red light camera in Ontario.

Tips for Safe Driving at Intersections

• Be Aware of Camera Locations: Many intersections in Ontario are equipped with red light cameras. Look for posted signs indicating that a camera is in use.
• Slow Down When Approaching Intersections: If you see a yellow light, slow down instead of trying to rush through the intersection.
• Follow Traffic Signals: Always stop at red lights and avoid last-second decisions that could lead to running a light.
• Anticipate Traffic Flow: Pay attention to other vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists to avoid sudden stops or misjudging the light change.

By driving cautiously, you can prevent not just red light camera tickets, but also potential accidents that could harm your driving record and insurance premiums.

Differences Between Red Light Camera Tickets and Police-Issued Tickets

To further clarify why a red light camera ticket does not affect insurance in Ontario, it’s important to compare it with a police-issued traffic ticket.

As seen in the table, a police-issued red light ticket has a greater impact on insurance premiums because it involves demerit points and appears on your driving record.

Final Thoughts: Will a Red Light Camera Ticket Affect Insurance in Ontario?

The simple answer is no—a red light camera ticket will not impact your car insurance in Ontario. Since it is issued to the vehicle owner rather than the driver, it does not appear on your driving record, does not add demerit points, and is not reported to insurance providers.

However, ignoring these tickets can result in additional fees or issues with renewing your vehicle registration. While they won’t raise your auto insurance premiums, it’s always best to drive safely and avoid fines altogether.

If you’re looking for the best car insurance coverage in Ontario, it’s crucial to work with an insurer that understands your needs. Always compare rates, maintain a clean driving record, and stay informed about how different traffic violations impact your insurance costs.

By following these insights, you can stay ahead of unnecessary expenses and make informed decisions about your car insurance policy in Ontario.