Does Stopping on the Pedestrian Crossing at a Red Light Count as Running a Red Light?
1 Answers
After the red light turns on, if a vehicle crosses the stop line and stops in front of the pedestrian crossing at the opposite intersection, this already constitutes running a red light. According to Article 10 of the 'Scoring Standards for Road Traffic Safety Violations,' if a motor vehicle driver fails to follow traffic signal instructions, they will be penalized with a deduction of 6 points. Running a red light refers to the act of a motor vehicle violating traffic signal instructions by crossing the stop line and continuing to move when the red light is on, prohibiting passage. Determining a red light violation requires at least three pieces of photographic evidence: the vehicle has not left the stop line when the red light turns on; the vehicle passes through the intersection while the red light is on; the vehicle has crossed the line and continues to move forward when the red light is on. Common scenarios of running a red light: When the red light turns on, if the front wheels touch the stop line, stopping immediately does not count as running a red light, but continuing to move does. If the entire vehicle crosses the stop line and stops on the pedestrian crossing after the red light turns on, this is not considered running a red light but qualifies as over-line stopping, which incurs a 2-point deduction and a fine of 100 RMB. However, if the vehicle moves noticeably on the pedestrian crossing or obstructs pedestrian passage, it will be judged as running a red light. If the front wheels cross the stop line and then reverse back behind the line when the red light turns on, this constitutes illegal reversing, which may result in a fine of 20-200 RMB. If this causes a traffic accident with a following vehicle, the driver will bear primary responsibility. If the vehicle crosses both the stop line and the pedestrian crossing, reaching the opposite intersection after the red light turns on, this is considered running a red light. Ways to avoid running a red light: Follow arrow signals if available; otherwise, observe the circular light. When the red light is on, the front of the vehicle must not cross the stop line. When the yellow light is on, the front of the vehicle must not cross the stop line. When the green light starts flashing, if the vehicle is close and moving fast, it should proceed, as braking might not stop it in time to avoid crossing the stop line. If the vehicle is far, moving slowly, or the intersection is congested, it should stop. When driving in the city, develop the habit of looking for traffic lights whenever encountering a pedestrian crossing, stop line, or intersection.
