Ty Robinson | January 28, 2026 | Car Accidents

Traffic and Red Light Cameras in Charleston, SC

Traffic and red light cameras are controversial, and South Carolina has banned automated ticketing since 2011. This article explains why the state prohibits these cameras, examines exceptions, compares them with those in other states, and offers safety tips and legal guidance for drivers in Charleston. 

Keep reading to learn more about traffic and red light cameras in Charleston, SC.

Why South Carolina Bans Cameras

South Carolina prohibits red‑light and speed cameras from issuing automated tickets. 

Key points of the law include:

  • Ticket issuance: A uniform traffic ticket must be issued in person at the time of the stop.
  • Photographic evidence: Photos or video alone cannot serve as the basis for a citation.
  • Legislative intent: The law was enacted in 2011 to protect due process after a small town used cameras to ticket out‑of‑state drivers.

Knowing these points explains why automated enforcement is banned.

How Enforcement Works

Since cameras cannot issue tickets, Charleston relies on police officers to enforce traffic laws. Officers must witness a violation and hand the ticket to the driver.

Cameras may record violations, but the footage can only corroborate an officer’s testimony and cannot be the sole evidence. This system ensures drivers have an opportunity to discuss the ticket with an officer, thereby preserving fairness and due process.

Permitted Camera Uses

There are a few legitimate uses for traffic cameras in South Carolina

Examples include:

  • Traffic monitoring: Cameras may monitor flow and detect accidents.
  • Law enforcement: Footage may assist in criminal investigations.
  • Private property: Businesses may use cameras for security or parking control, but these cannot issue moving violation tickets.

These exceptions reflect the state’s focus on safety rather than revenue.

Comparisons to Other States

While South Carolina prohibits automated enforcement, many other states and cities have adopted red‑light or speed camera programs. 

The rules and outcomes vary widely:

  • Permitting with safeguards: Some states allow cameras but require a police officer to review each violation and approve the ticket.
  • Outright bans: Others, like South Carolina, ban automated citations due to privacy and due process concerns.
  • Mixed safety results: Studies indicate that cameras can reduce dangerous right‑angle crashes at intersections but may increase minor rear‑end collisions when drivers brake suddenly to avoid a ticket.

Comparing approaches shows that there is no universal consensus on the effectiveness of automated enforcement, and policies often reflect local priorities and values. It is good practice to be aware of local traffic laws when traveling across state lines. 

Public Opinion and Future of Automated Enforcement

Public opinion on traffic cameras is divided. Some residents support cameras because they believe automated enforcement deters dangerous driving and frees police officers to focus on other tasks. Others argue that cameras are unfair because they cannot assess context, such as a driver moving through an intersection to make way for an emergency vehicle. 

In recent years, legislators have proposed bills to allow cameras in school zones or work zones to protect children and road workers, but these proposals have faced strong opposition and have not become law. As technology improves and debates continue, the state may revisit the issue, but for now, officers must witness violations in person.

Contact Our Charleston Car Accident Lawyer at Ty Robinson Personal Injury & Car Accident Law Firm for a Free Consultation

Even without automated enforcement, Charleston drivers can help make intersections safer. If you need help after a crash in the Holy City, contact Ty Robinson Personal Injury & Car Accident Law Firm today to schedule a free consultation with our Charleston car accident lawyer. Our team can help you understand your rights and legal options following a wreck. 

Ty Robinson Personal Injury & Car Accident Law Firm
28 Broad St Suite 204-2
Charleston, SC 29401
(843) 278-2222