What to Do If You Get a Red Light Ticket on Your Bicycle in California

Getting a red light ticket while riding your bicycle in California can be a surprising and frustrating experience. Although it’s more common to associate traffic tickets with driving, cyclists are subject to many of the same traffic laws as motor vehicles, and therefore you can be given a ticket for running a red light or stop sign on your bicycle. Here’s a guide to help you understand your options and what steps to take if you receive a red light ticket while on your bike.

1. Understand the Law

In California, bicyclists are generally required to follow the same rules of the road as motor vehicle drivers under the California Vehicle Code (CVC) Section 21200. This means that running a red light or stop sign while on a bicycle can result in a traffic ticket, just as it would if you were driving a car.

The penalty for failing to come to a complete stop at a red light or stop sign is exactly the same as it would be if you were driving a motor vehicle.

While a driver’s license isn’t required in order to ride a bicycle in California, if an officer stops you because you violated a traffic law, you are required to provide valid identification.

2. Decide How to Respond

You have several options when responding to a red light ticket on your bicycle:

  • Pay the Fine: If you acknowledge the violation and prefer to resolve the matter quickly, you can pay the fine. Be aware that paying the ticket is an admission of guilt, and it may go on your driving record. Under CVC Section 1803, the law allows courts to decide whether or not to send a notice to the DMV of a traffic code violation when a person gets a ticket while riding their bicycle – while this reporting is mandatory when a person gets a ticket while driving a motor vehicle.
  • Contest the Ticket: If you believe the ticket was issued in error, you have the right to contest it. You can plead “not guilty” and request a court hearing in Traffic Court. At the hearing, you’ll have the opportunity to present evidence and argue your case.
  • Request a Lower Fine: If you are unable to afford to pay the fine, you can request that the fine be reduced, that a payment plan be set up, or that you do community service instead.

3. Prepare for Court (If Contesting)

If you choose to contest the ticket, prepare thoroughly:

  • Gather Evidence: Collect any evidence that might support your case, such as photos of the intersection, traffic signal timing records, or witness statements.
  • Research the Law: Familiarize yourself with relevant sections of the California Vehicle Code to understand your rights and responsibilities as a cyclist.
  • Consider Legal Advice: If the situation is complex, consulting with a traffic attorney could be beneficial. However, given the usual cost of red light or stop sign tickets, hiring an attorney may not be worth the cost.

4. Attend Your Court Hearing

At the court hearing, you’ll present your case. Be respectful, clear, and concise when explaining why you believe the ticket should be dismissed. The judge will consider your argument along with any evidence and make a decision.  If you are going to contest your ticket, make sure you show up for any court dates, or additional fines will likely be added.

5. Pay Any Fines or Fees

If the court upholds the ticket, you’ll need to pay the fine and any additional court fees. Make sure to do so by the deadline to avoid further penalties.

6. Learn From the Experience

Regardless of the outcome, use this experience as a learning opportunity. Understanding and adhering to traffic laws not only helps avoid future tickets but also ensures your safety and the safety of others on the road.