Culver City red light camera... not a fair ticket, how do I fight it?

[vipponah]

I made a left turn on a red light on a Culver City street, simply because there was so much traffic that I had no choice. Did not pose a single threat to any soul, as the cars could plainly see me making the turn- happens all the time in traffic. So, I am most definitely not paying that goddamn city nearly 500 bucks for a technicality.

I've made some research and found that if you did not receive the ticket thru the mail, the ticket has no effect on your record nor can a judge issue a warrant against you. And yes, what "not receiving it in the mail" means to me is simply if I receive it, I will ignore it. I simply do not deserve it. I have a clean record and am a safe driver.

Anyone have any luck dealing with the devil this way? Give me tips.

[bronsin]

Some people have challenged the constitutionality of it on grounds of the right to face your accuser. Like if a cop writes a ticket, and doesn't show up in court, it is dismissed. I don't think anyone has had much luck through. The good thing is it doesn't go on your record or accumulate points, and doesn't increase your insurance.

[berwin]

On your citation should be a court date, or a phone number to call for information. You can appear before a judge on the court date and plead your case. Otherwise, you ignore the summons at your own peril. Whether you agree with the law or not, you are subject to penalty if you break it. If you do not plead guilty and pay the fine, or appear before the judge to present your case, you will be subject to arrest when/if you come in contact with law enforcement. At the very least, your license will be suspended and you cannot renew it until you take care of the infraction.