Incorrect Red Light Camera Tickets To Be Refunded In Alexandria

ALEXANDRIA, VA — Refunds for some red light camera tickets will be issued after an error was identified with the red light camera programming at one Alexandria intersection.

The refunds will affect some tickets from the red light camera at Duke and S. Walker Streets in the West End. A review found the red light camera at the intersection was issuing tickets without the amnesty period of 0.5 seconds required by state law. Red light enforcement cameras are required to have this amnesty period, which means citations cannot be issued until 0.5 seconds after a light turns red.

The error was found by Redflex Group, which used to be the vendor for the city's red light camera program. The incorrect citations were issued between Jan. 26, 2016 and Oct. 4, 2019. A total of 4,709 citations were incorrectly issued, or 0.74 percent of all citations during that time period. The erroneous citations add up to $187,673.35 in fines.

"Additional protections to safeguard against future programming errors have been implemented, including monthly and quarterly operational audits to ensure all cameras are programmed correctly and in compliance with Virginia law," the city stated in a news release.

The red light camera program began in 2011 at several intersections, including Duke and S. Walker Streets. Cameras run 24/7, capturing images and videos of vehicles that do not follow the traffic signals. The maximum fine for a red light offense in Virginia is $50.

Drivers affected by the city's erroneous fines will be contacted by mail. The city's photo enforcement customer service call center can be contacted from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at 877-847-2338, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. When calling, have your citation number or the vehicle’s license plate information on hand.