Does Running a Red Light Capture the Front or Rear License Plate?
4 Answers
Running a red light captures the rear license plate. Electronic cameras take three photos to determine the violation: a photo of the vehicle crossing the intersection stop line, showing the red light and license plate number; a photo of the vehicle completely passing the stop line, showing the red light and license plate number; and a photo of the vehicle continuing to move, comparing the vehicle's position changes, showing the red light and license plate number. Capturing these three photos confirms the vehicle ran a red light. The act of running a red light is clearly defined in the Road Traffic Safety Law. Article 26 states that traffic signals consist of red, green, and yellow lights. A red light indicates prohibition of passage, a green light permits passage, and a yellow light serves as a warning. A red light is a traffic signal prohibiting passage, and if a vehicle passes through an intersection during a red light, it constitutes the traffic violation of running a red light. Six scenarios of running a red light: Stopping immediately after crossing the line at a red light (when the light turns red, the vehicle cannot stop in time, and the front of the vehicle crosses the stop line): If the vehicle has just crossed the stop line during a red light but stops immediately, this is not penalized as running a red light. However, if there is noticeable movement after crossing the line, it will be penalized. The three photos taken by electronic cameras for running a red light are: the front wheels crossing the stop line, the rear wheels crossing the stop line, and the front wheels crossing the opposite stop line. Only when all three photos are captured is it confirmed as running a red light, which incurs a 6-point deduction under the new regulations. Running a red light under police direction (the signal is red, but the traffic officer signals to proceed): When there is a conflict between the traffic signal and the officer's gesture, drivers must obey the officer's on-site command. If running a red light occurs due to the officer's direction, the driver can request a diversion certificate from the local traffic police station to avoid penalties. If the driver disputes the penalty, they can appeal through administrative reconsideration or litigation. Stopping after the entire vehicle crosses the line at a red light (failing to brake in time, causing the entire vehicle to cross the stop line): If the entire vehicle crosses the stop line but does not continue moving, it is not considered running a red light. However, this constitutes crossing the stop line, which, according to Article 4, Clause 5 of the Scoring Standards for Road Traffic Violations, results in a 3-point deduction for failing to drive or stop as required at an intersection. Reversing after crossing the stop line (attempting to avoid penalties by reversing after crossing the stop line at a red light): Vehicles are prohibited from reversing at railway crossings, intersections, one-way roads, bridges, sharp curves, steep slopes, or tunnels. Violators may receive a warning or fine. Accidentally running a red light behind a large vehicle (due to obstructed visibility, following the large vehicle through the intersection): Drivers must maintain sufficient visibility to see the traffic signals ahead and ensure a safe braking distance. Generally, if a vehicle behind a large vehicle is photographed, it is due to rushing through the intersection. This behavior is penalized as running a red light. Passing through an intersection during a yellow light (proceeding through the intersection as the light turns yellow): Traffic authorities state that Article 26 of the Implementation Regulations of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China specifies that vehicles that have already crossed the stop line when the yellow light flashes may continue to proceed. If the driver accelerates through the intersection after the yellow light has turned red, it is considered running a red light if captured.
As an automotive repair technician, I often get asked about traffic cameras. When running a red light, cameras typically capture the rear license plate of the vehicle. This is because the cameras are mounted on poles near the traffic signals. When the light turns red, sensors detect vehicles illegally crossing the line and trigger the camera to photograph the rear of the vehicle, capturing the rear license plate information. Photographing the rear plate is more reliable as it isn't affected by driver movements. Of course, some advanced systems may photograph both front and rear, but the mainstream approach remains rear plate capture. By the way, running red lights isn't just about fines - it can lead to fatal accidents. I always remind fellow drivers to pay attention to signal changes when stopping and maintain safe distances. Don't underestimate those few seconds at a red light - following the rules is the sustainable approach. Regular inspection of your vehicle's braking system can also help prevent accidents.
I've been driving for over a decade and have encountered similar situations. Generally speaking, red light cameras capture the rear license plate because the lens is aimed at the intersection entrance. Once my neighbor ran a red light, and the ticket photo clearly showed his rear license plate. In urban areas, the equipment is more sophisticated, making it easier to capture the rear plate. Smaller towns might have fewer cameras, but the principle remains the same. The rear position of the vehicle makes license plate identification easier. Stay calm while driving and don't take risks just to save time. I've also noticed that during rainy days or at night when visibility is low, cameras rely more on infrared technology for accuracy. Remember, safe driving is more important than anything else. When approaching traffic signals, slow down and observe your surroundings—don't race against the clock.
From a road safety perspective, I firmly believe that red-light cameras are designed to capture rear license plates. Rear-facing cameras document vehicles entering intersections, facilitating subsequent accountability. This not only deters violators but also protects pedestrians and vehicles. In practice, traffic signal systems prioritize rear captures to avoid windshield glare issues. I always emphasize that obeying traffic rules is a fundamental responsibility. Running red lights often results from distraction or impatience—develop the habit of slowing down in advance. Accident rates rise in bad weather; regularly check lights to ensure visibility. Maintain safe following distances—don't let minor issues escalate into disasters.
