Traffic tickets in Alberta are a common occurrence, with thousands of drivers being issued fines and penalties every year. The Alberta Traffic Safety Act is the primary legislation that governs traffic laws in the province, and it is enforced by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and municipal police services. According to the Alberta Government's website, the province issues over 700,000 traffic tickets annually, resulting in significant revenue for the government. In this article, we will delve into the world of traffic tickets in Alberta, exploring the different types of tickets, the penalties associated with them, and the options available to drivers who receive a ticket.
Types of Traffic Tickets in Alberta
There are several types of traffic tickets that can be issued in Alberta, each with its own set of penalties and fines. Some of the most common types of tickets include:
- Speeding tickets: These are issued to drivers who exceed the posted speed limit. Fines for speeding tickets in Alberta can range from 57 to 353, depending on the severity of the offense.
- Red light tickets: These are issued to drivers who fail to stop at a red light or stop sign. Fines for red light tickets in Alberta can range from 146 to 243.
- Distracted driving tickets: These are issued to drivers who are caught using a handheld electronic device while driving. Fines for distracted driving tickets in Alberta can range from 287 to 543.
- Seatbelt tickets: These are issued to drivers who fail to wear a seatbelt or ensure that all passengers are wearing a seatbelt. Fines for seatbelt tickets in Alberta can range from 115 to 243.
Penalties for Traffic Tickets in Alberta
The penalties for traffic tickets in Alberta can be significant, and can include fines, demerit points, and even license suspensions. The following table outlines the penalties for some of the most common traffic tickets in Alberta:
| Offense | Fine | Demerit Points |
|---|---|---|
| Speeding (1-15 km/h over) | 57-107 | 2 |
| Speeding (16-30 km/h over) | 107-177 | 3 |
| Speeding (31-50 km/h over) | 177-253 | 4 |
| Distracted driving | 287-543 | 3 |
| Red light | 146-243 | 3 |
Drivers who accumulate too many demerit points can face license suspensions, which can range from 30 days to 1 year or more, depending on the number of points accumulated.
Options for Dealing with Traffic Tickets in Alberta
Drivers who receive a traffic ticket in Alberta have several options for dealing with it. These include:
- Paying the fine: Drivers can pay the fine associated with the ticket, which will result in the ticket being considered paid and the offense being recorded on their driving record.
- Contesting the ticket: Drivers can contest the ticket in court, which can result in the ticket being dismissed or the fine being reduced.
- Requesting a reduction in demerit points: Drivers can request a reduction in demerit points associated with the ticket, which can help to avoid a license suspension.
It’s worth noting that drivers who receive a traffic ticket in Alberta should respond to the ticket within 15 days of receiving it, as failure to do so can result in additional penalties and fines.
How to Contest a Traffic Ticket in Alberta
Contesting a traffic ticket in Alberta involves several steps, including:
- Reviewing the ticket: Drivers should carefully review the ticket to ensure that all of the information is accurate and complete.
- Gathering evidence: Drivers should gather any evidence that may be relevant to their case, such as witness statements, photos, or videos.
- Preparing a defense: Drivers should prepare a defense, which can include arguing that the ticket was issued in error or that there were mitigating circumstances.
- Attending court: Drivers should attend court on the scheduled date and time, where they will present their case to a judge.
It’s worth noting that contesting a traffic ticket can be a complex and time-consuming process, and drivers may want to consider hiring a lawyer to represent them in court.
What happens if I don't pay a traffic ticket in Alberta?
+If you don't pay a traffic ticket in Alberta, you may face additional penalties and fines, including a late payment fee and a suspension of your driver's license. You may also be subject to collection activities, such as wage garnishment or bank account seizures.
Can I appeal a traffic ticket conviction in Alberta?
+Yes, you can appeal a traffic ticket conviction in Alberta. You must file a notice of appeal with the court within 30 days of the conviction, and you must provide reasons for the appeal. The appeal will be heard by a judge, who will review the evidence and make a decision.
How long do traffic tickets stay on my record in Alberta?
+Traffic tickets can stay on your record in Alberta for up to 3 years, depending on the type of offense and the number of demerit points associated with it. After 3 years, the ticket will be removed from your record, and you will no longer be subject to the penalties and fines associated with it.
In conclusion, traffic tickets are a common occurrence in Alberta, and can result in significant fines and penalties. Drivers who receive a traffic ticket have several options for dealing with it, including paying the fine, contesting the ticket, and requesting a reduction in demerit points. By understanding the options available and the penalties associated with traffic tickets, drivers can make informed decisions about how to proceed.
