Modesto’s red light cameras rack up over $120K in fines since April launch
Since Modesto’s new red light cameras launched in April, 253 citations have been issued, bringing approximately $122,705 in fines.
Ten intersections were selected for installation, though only five cameras are currently live.
According to a Facebook post by the Modesto Police Department, the most citations — 75 — were issued at the intersection of Briggsmore Avenue at Coffee Road. The Oakdale Road intersection at Briggsmore was next, with 72. The fewest were at Pelandale Avenue at Carver Road.
This is a drop from the 30-day warning period in March, when the camera at Briggsmore and Coffee captured more than 400 possible violations in its first 11 days of operation.
Not every captured incident results in a ticket, though. Potential violations are reviewed before a citation is issued, and some may be dismissed.
Fines are $485 and result in one point on a driver’s license, potentially impacting insurance rates.
The Modesto City Council approved the red light camera program last year. The city contracted with Verra Mobility, a traffic safety technology company, to administer it.
The cameras operate daily, around the clock, capturing images of vehicle license plates and sending them through video. Law enforcement verifies the infraction before issuing a fine.
Whether or not a citation is issued, Verra Mobility stores all the data for six months.
Police have said the goal of the program is to reduce crashes, prevent injuries and improve safety at intersections across the city. Modesto has ranked high in crash rates compared to similar-sized California cities, according to state traffic safety data.
“Traffic safety is something we all play a role in, and these numbers serve as a reminder that the choices we make behind the wheel matter,” reads a Facebook post from the Modesto Police Department. “Our goal isn’t citations — it’s safer intersections, fewer crashes, and making sure everyone gets home safely.”
