Does running a red light capture the front or rear of the vehicle?
2 Answers
Running a red light captures the rear of the vehicle. It is determined by three photos taken by an electronic camera: the first photo shows the vehicle crossing the intersection stop line, including the red light signal and license plate number; the second photo shows the vehicle completely passing the stop line, including the red light signal and license plate number; the third photo shows the vehicle continuing to move, mainly by comparing the change in the vehicle's position in the second photo, including the red light signal and license plate number. Capturing these three photos confirms the vehicle ran a red light. 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 means stop, a green light means go, and a yellow light serves as a warning. A red light is a traffic signal prohibiting passage, and driving through an intersection during a red light 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 red light is on, the vehicle cannot brake in time, and the front crosses the stop line): If the vehicle only just crosses the stop line during a red light but stops immediately, this is not penalized. However, if there is obvious movement after crossing the line, it will be penalized. The electronic camera captures three photos for running a red light: 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 present is it confirmed as running a red light, which incurs a six-point deduction under Article 10 of the "Road Traffic Safety Law." 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 stop line at a red light (failing to brake in time, causing the entire vehicle to cross the stop line): If the vehicle stops completely after crossing the stop line without further movement, this is not considered running a red light. 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 turns, steep slopes, or tunnels. Violations may result in a warning or fine. Mistakenly running a red light behind a large vehicle (due to obstructed view from a large vehicle ahead, following it through the intersection): Drivers must maintain sufficient visibility to see traffic signals and ensure a safe braking distance. Generally, if a vehicle is captured behind a large vehicle while rushing through an intersection, it is penalized as running a red light. Passing through an intersection during a yellow light (crossing the intersection when the signal turns yellow): If the driver continues to proceed after the yellow light is already on, this is also considered running a red light if captured.
I've been driving for many years, and regarding the issue of running red lights being photographed, traffic cameras usually capture the position of the front wheels because the key is to record whether the vehicle crosses the stop line at the moment the light is red. The cameras are mostly installed on poles at intersections, aimed at the front of the car from directly above or at a side angle, which allows for a clear record of the license plate and time. Once, I accidentally ran a red light, and later saw the evidence in the ticket photos, which showed the front part of my car. Don't underestimate this issue; running a red light is extremely dangerous, as it can easily cause accidents and result in fines and demerit points. Always pay attention to traffic signals, slow down and observe when approaching an intersection, and if the yellow light starts flashing, don't rush through—it's better to wait a few extra seconds for safety. Remembering the rules can save you a lot of trouble.
