How to Fight a Running a Red Light Ticket in Hawaii
If you got a running a red light ticket in Hawaii, you can usually pay it, contest it in court, or pursue a dismissal/mitigation option. Running a red light violates HRS § 291C-32 (traffic signal obedience).
How to fight a red light ticket in Hawaii, step by step
Decide how to plead
To contest a red light citation in Hawaii, plead not guilty and request a hearing. The state must prove you entered the intersection while the signal displayed red.
Check Hawaii's dismissal & mitigation options
To contest a red light citation in Hawaii, plead not guilty and request a hearing. The state must prove you entered the intersection while the signal displayed red.
Request the evidence in your case
Ask the court for the officer's notes and any photos, device records, or calibration logs relied on to issue your running a red light citation — you have a right to review what the case against you is built on.
Know exactly what you're contesting
Running a red light violates HRS § 291C-32 (traffic signal obedience).
Show up prepared
Running a red light violates HRS § 291C-32 (traffic signal obedience). Arrive early, dress neatly, and bring your documents plus a short, factual statement of your side.
Prepare for your Hawaii court date — free
Get a guided prep chat for your exact violation, then a court-ready mock script you can rehearse.
Start my free court prep →Hawaii Running a Red Light ticket — frequently asked questions
What is the fine for running a red light in Hawaii?
Running a red light violates HRS § 291C-32 (traffic signal obedience). It is a traffic infraction. Fine amounts are set by the court schedule — typically $200 for a first violation (same tier as speeding first offense). Hawaii has no demerit point system, so no points are assessed. The violation IS recorded on your driving record. Verify with the court on your citation or at courts.hawaii.gov.
Can a red light ticket be dismissed in Hawaii?
To contest a red light citation in Hawaii, plead not guilty and request a hearing. The state must prove you entered the intersection while the signal displayed red. Defenses: signal was yellow (not red) when you entered; signal was malfunctioning; emergency circumstances. If the citing officer fails to appear, the citation may be dismissed. Hawaii has no statewide diversion program for traffic infractions.
Zigpon is an educational self-help guide, not a law firm — this is general information, not legal advice. Laws change and every case is different; verify details with your court or a licensed attorney before acting.