Introduction
The Rowland St S & Barranca Ave red light camera in Covina, California, is one of the city’s busiest and most closely monitored intersections. This automated traffic enforcement system was installed to improve road safety, reduce dangerous red-light running, and protect both drivers and pedestrians. It operates 24/7 and is triggered when a vehicle enters the intersection after the light turns red.
While many drivers view these cameras as a safety measure, others see them as a source of costly fines. This guide will explain everything about the camera’s location, purpose, operation, and how you can avoid unnecessary tickets.
Intersection Profile & Context
The camera is positioned at the intersection of Rowland Street South and South Barranca Avenue, an area surrounded by:
- Schools such as Covina High School and Barranca Elementary, leading to heavy student and pedestrian traffic.
- Local businesses that attract both foot traffic and vehicles throughout the day.
- High vehicle volume during rush hours, making this a critical spot for accident prevention.
Because of its location near schools, there are also time-based restrictions for turning on red, especially during morning and afternoon school hours.
History & Purpose of Installation
The Rowland St S & Barranca Ave red light camera was installed as part of Covina’s broader traffic enforcement program. Other intersections, like Grand & Badillo and Azusa & Cypress, also have cameras to monitor violations.
The decision to place a camera here was driven by:
- A high number of red-light violations reported by officers.
- Collision statistics showing increased risk for right-angle (T-bone) accidents.
- Pedestrian safety concerns near nearby schools.
How the System Works
The Rowland St S & Barranca Ave red light camera operates using embedded road sensors and high-resolution imaging. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
- Detection – Sensors in the road detect if a car enters the intersection after the signal has turned red.
- Image & Video Capture – The system takes multiple photos: one before the stop line and one in the intersection. It also records a 12-second video (6 seconds before and after the violation).
- Data Recording – Each capture logs:
- Date and time
- Yellow and red light durations
- Vehicle speed
- License plate details
- Review – Covina Police Department officers review all footage before issuing a citation.
Signage & Legal Compliance
California law requires warning signs for intersections with red-light cameras, and Rowland St S & Barranca Ave is no exception. Signs are placed before the intersection to alert drivers.
There are also signs for turn restrictions, like “No Turn on Red” during certain school hours. Failure to follow these signs can still result in a camera-captured violation.
Citation & Ticket Process
If the system confirms a violation, a citation is mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle. The ticket includes:
- Photographic evidence of the violation.
- A link to view the video online.
- Instructions for payment or contesting the ticket.
Typical fine breakdown for a red-light camera ticket in California:
| Charge Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Base fine | $100 |
| Court & processing fees | $300–$350 |
| Total | Around $490 |
If the registered owner was not driving, they can submit an Affidavit of Non-Liability to transfer responsibility.
Common Violation Triggers
Drivers often get cited at this intersection for:
- Running a red light – entering the intersection after the light turns red.
- Rolling stops before a right turn on red – California law requires a full stop.
- Violating time-based restrictions – especially during school hours.
- Stopping past the limit line – even if you stop, crossing the line can trigger the camera.
Real-World Experiences
Some Covina drivers have reported getting tickets even when they believed they stopped. This is often due to stopping past the limit line or misunderstanding school hour restrictions.
Concerns raised by residents include:
- Whether the camera’s main purpose is safety or revenue.
- How effective cameras are at reducing accidents versus increasing rear-end collisions.
How to Contest a Ticket
If you receive a ticket, you have the right to review and dispute it. Steps include:
- Check the evidence – Photos and videos can be viewed online.
- Verify signs and timing – Make sure signage was visible and the yellow light timing met California standards.
- Consider valid defenses – Examples include poor sign visibility, inaccurate detection, or legal exemptions (emergency driving).
- Use Trial by Written Declaration – Contest without appearing in person.
If someone else was driving, submit the Affidavit of Non-Liability with proof.
Safety Impact
The city’s goal for the Rowland St S & Barranca Ave red light camera is to:
- Reduce severe collisions at a busy intersection.
- Protect pedestrians, especially school children.
- Encourage safer driving habits through visible enforcement.
Studies show that while red-light cameras may slightly increase rear-end collisions, they significantly reduce dangerous angle crashes that can cause serious injuries.
Conclusion
The Rowland St S & Barranca Ave red light camera is a key part of Covina’s traffic safety strategy. By monitoring high-risk intersections, the city hopes to prevent accidents and encourage responsible driving.
For drivers, the best way to avoid tickets is simple: stop fully at red lights, follow posted signs, and pay attention to school-hour restrictions. Being aware of how the system works can save you money, stress, and most importantly—help keep the roads safer.
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