Does running a red light capture the front or rear of the vehicle?

[StTeagan]

It is determined by capturing three photos through electronic cameras. 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 second photo where the vehicle's position has changed, including the red light signal and license plate number. Capturing these three photos can determine that the vehicle has run 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 indicates permission to pass, and a yellow light serves as a warning. A red light is a traffic signal prohibiting passage. 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 red light is on, 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 act of running a red light will not be penalized. However, if there is obvious movement after crossing the line, it will be penalized. The three photos captured by the electronic eye 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 these three photos are complete will it be considered running a red light, and Article 10 of the "Road Traffic Safety Law" stipulates a deduction of six points. Running a red light under the direction of a traffic officer (the signal is red, but the on-duty traffic officer indicates permission to pass): When there is a conflict between the traffic signal and the traffic officer's gesture, the driver must obey the on-site command of the traffic officer. If a red light is run due to the traffic officer's on-site command, the driver can obtain a diversion certificate from the local traffic police station to avoid penalties. If the party disagrees with the penalty, they can appeal through administrative reconsideration or administrative litigation. The entire vehicle crosses the stop line at a red light and stops (failing to brake in time, causing the entire vehicle to cross the stop line): If the entire vehicle crosses the stop line and does not continue to move, 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): Motor vehicles are not allowed to reverse at railway crossings, intersections, one-way roads, bridges, sharp turns, steep slopes, or tunnels. If reversing is done illegally, a warning or fine may be imposed. Mistakenly running a red light behind a large vehicle (due to the large vehicle blocking the view, following it through the intersection): Drivers must maintain sufficient visibility to see the traffic signals ahead and ensure a safe braking distance. Generally, if a motor vehicle is captured behind a large vehicle, it is because it rushed through the intersection. This behavior will be penalized as running a red light. Passing through an intersection during a yellow light (passing through the intersection when the signal turns yellow): The traffic police department states that the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China" stipulate that when the yellow light at an intersection is flashing, vehicles that have already crossed the stop line may continue to pass. If the yellow light is already on and the vehicle continues to rush through, it will be considered running a red light if captured.

[LaFrank]

Having driven for many years, I've encountered red-light running situations and am familiar with traffic camera setups. Those traffic cameras, installed at ground level in intersections, mostly target the rear of vehicles to capture license plate numbers, ensuring tickets are accurately delivered to vehicle owners. Sometimes they also photograph the front, particularly in cases involving pedestrian safety or supplementary evidence, but the primary focus remains the rear. I advise all drivers to obey traffic signals—not only to avoid fines but also to prevent accidents, like last month when I witnessed a car running a red light and nearly hitting a pedestrian. Regularly checking vehicle lights is also crucial, ensuring the braking system is in good condition to avoid unnecessary trouble.