How is running a red light when turning right determined?
3 Answers
If the right turn signal is a red arrow, vehicles should stop behind the stop line and wait for the green light before proceeding. Turning right when the right turn arrow is red is considered running a red light. If the right turn signal is not a red arrow, turning right is allowed. To determine whether a vehicle has run a red light, the electronic eye needs to capture three photos: the front wheels crossing the stop line, the rear wheels crossing the stop line, and the front wheels crossing the opposite stop line. According to the relevant regulations of the "Road Traffic Management Regulations of the People's Republic of China": In the absence of special traffic instructions (such as traffic signs or police instructions), motor vehicles can turn right at a red light without it being considered a red light violation. If there is a traffic sign (prohibiting right turns when the red light is on), motor vehicles cannot turn right when encountering a red light. Note: At intersections with signs prohibiting right turns, vehicles must stop when the red light is on. Turning right under these circumstances is equivalent to running a red light. According to the latest 2013 version of traffic regulations, driving a motor vehicle in violation of traffic signals results in a 6-point deduction. Special instructions: When the red light is on, right turns are prohibited. If there is an auxiliary sign next to the full-screen light stating "No right turn when red light is on" or a no-right-turn sign, right turns are not allowed even if the full-screen light is red. Otherwise, it will be penalized as running a red light, with a 6-point deduction. When turning right, yield to pedestrians: Although full-screen lights allow right turns, always remember to yield to pedestrians. Otherwise, a fine and a 3-point deduction will be imposed. Straight lanes do not allow right turns: Right turns must be made from the right turn lane, not from the straight lane. Only the right turn lane or a combined straight and right turn lane allows right turns. Turning right from a straight lane is considered driving in the wrong lane, resulting in a 2-point deduction. Right turn precautions: During driving, plan and judge the route: When preparing to turn right at the next intersection, enter the right turn lane in advance. Generally, the rightmost one or two lanes are designated for right turns. Follow the signs and road markings for guidance. Before entering the right turn lane, always use the turn signal and observe the traffic behind. Right turn lanes generally do not require stopping at red lights, as long as it is safe to proceed. However, some intersections have right turn signals, requiring drivers to wait for the green light before turning right. During the right turn, always obey traffic rules, use the right turn signal, and proceed slowly and safely.
I've been driving on the road for over a decade, and I'm always extra cautious when making right turns at red lights. The rules require coming to a complete stop before the stop line, observing if the surroundings are safe before proceeding, otherwise it would be considered running a red light. The judgment is mainly made through the intersection's electronic monitoring system. If the vehicle's wheels cross the stop line and begin turning when the light is red, the cameras will automatically capture it as evidence. After backend review, a ticket will be issued, typically with a 200 yuan fine and 6 penalty points. I learned my lesson from one such penalty and now always stop completely for a few seconds, ensuring no pedestrians or vehicles are approaching before moving. This practice is especially important at crowded intersections to avoid rear-end collisions or hitting pedestrians. Since developing this habit, my driving has become safer and smoother, with fewer fine-related worries.
When I first got my driver's license, I wasn't very familiar with the rules for right turns at red lights. A friend explained that I must stop behind the stop line, wait, and ensure the intersection is safe before turning. Otherwise, if traffic cameras capture the car moving under a red light, it would be considered a violation. The criteria for judgment are straightforward: the camera monitors the color of the light and the change in vehicle speed when the wheels cross the line. I remember almost impulsively turning as a beginner but fortunately stopped in time. Now, when driving, I always remind myself that coming to a complete stop is key, especially during peak hours when patience is essential. This way, I can avoid unnecessary fines and penalty points, ensuring safety and peace of mind.
