How to Appeal a Red Light Traffic Fine in Lesaka: Downloadable Template

Receiving a traffic fine for running a red light in Spain can be a stressful experience, especially if you believe the citation was issued in error or lacks sufficient evidence. If you have been fined in the municipality of Lesaka, you have the legal right to challenge the penalty. This article provides a practical guide and a ready-to-use template in Spanish to help you file an administrative appeal (Recurso de Alegaciones) effectively.

How and Where to Submit Your Appeal in Lesaka

In Spain, the procedure for appealing a traffic fine is governed by the Law on Traffic, Motor Vehicle Circulation, and Road Safety. Once you receive the notification, you generally have 20 calendar days to file your appeal.

To submit your appeal in Lesaka, you have three primary options:

• In-Person: You can visit the Town Hall (Ayuntamiento de Lesaka) or the relevant municipal traffic office. Ensure you bring two copies of the document so the clerk can stamp one as your receipt (registro de entrada).
• Electronic Registry: If you possess a digital certificate (Certificado Digital) or Cl@ve PIN, you can submit your appeal through the official electronic office (Sede Electrónica) of the Lesaka municipal website. This is the fastest and most secure method.
• Certified Mail: You may send the document via "Correo Administrativo" at any Correos post office. Ensure the envelope is left open so the official can stamp and date the document before sealing it.

A LA JEFATURA DE TRÁFICO / AYUNTAMIENTO DE LESAKA

DATOS DEL INTERESADO:
Nombre y Apellidos: [Your Full Name]
DNI/NIE: [Your ID Number]
Dirección a efectos de notificaciones: [Your Address]
Teléfono: [Your Phone Number]

EXPONE:
Que habiendo sido notificado de la denuncia con número de expediente [Insert File Number], formulada el día [Date of Fine] por la supuesta infracción consistente en "no respetar la luz roja de un semáforo", vengo a presentar en tiempo y forma el presente escrito de ALEGACIONES basándome en los siguientes hechos:

HECHOS Y FUNDAMENTOS:
1. Que los hechos descritos en la denuncia no se ajustan a la realidad, toda vez que [Explain your reason: e.g., the traffic light was yellow/amber, there was a technical error in the camera, or the vehicle identified is not mine].
2. Que solicito se aporte la prueba fotográfica íntegra y el certificado de calibración del cinemómetro/dispositivo de captación de imágenes conforme a la normativa vigente.

SOLICITA:
Que se tengan por presentadas las presentes alegaciones, se practiquen las pruebas propuestas y, tras los trámites oportunos, se dicte resolución dejando sin efecto la sanción impuesta.

En [City], a [Day] de [Month] de [Year].

Fdo.: [Your Signature]

Additional Documentation Required

To strengthen your case, you must attach supporting evidence to your template. Do not submit your only original documents; always use photocopies. Essential items include:

• A copy of the fine notification: Include the original document received by mail.
• Proof of Identity: A clear photocopy of your DNI, NIE, or Passport.
• Evidence: Any documents that support your claim, such as photos of the intersection, witness statements, or documents proving your vehicle was elsewhere at the time (e.g., a workshop invoice or parking receipt).

Expert Tip: Remember that if you pay the fine within the first 20 days, you are entitled to a 50% discount. However, be aware that paying the fine voluntarily constitutes an admission of guilt and will effectively cancel your right to file an appeal. If you are certain that the fine is incorrect, file the appeal first before considering any payment. If the municipality rejects your initial appeal, you may proceed to the "Recurso de Reposición," though you may wish to consult with a legal professional at that stage.