How many seconds after the yellow light goes out does the camera take a photo?
3 Answers
In fact, the electronic police system that captures drivers' violations at intersections starts operating with a 2-second delay after the yellow light turns on, rather than waiting for the yellow light to go out before initiating the photo capture. Typically, the yellow light remains illuminated for 3 seconds. Relevant details are as follows: Composition of the traffic signal system: The traffic signal system consists of yellow, green, and red lights. The yellow light has a longer wavelength and stronger ability to penetrate the air, serving as a warning signal. The green light serves as a go signal, while the red light serves as a stop signal. The difference between red and green is significant, making them easy to distinguish. Definition of running a yellow light: When the yellow light is on at an intersection, any vehicle whose body has crossed the stop line can continue to pass. If a vehicle continues to pass without having crossed the stop line, it is considered "running a yellow light."
I was also curious about this question when driving before. Actually, traffic light cameras don't start counting after the yellow light turns off, but immediately when the red light comes on. The system will take several consecutive photos as evidence if any vehicle is still crossing the intersection or passing the stop line after the red light turns on. The purpose of the yellow light is to remind us to slow down and stop, not to risk rushing forward. I have a friend who didn't brake in time at a yellow light, and their car was still crossing the line when the red light came on - they got photographed, fined 200 yuan, and received penalty points. Safe driving is most important; when you see a yellow light, prepare to stop. Don't rush those few seconds to avoid trouble. Also, different intersections have different light timing - generally, yellow lights last 3-5 seconds, and red light cameras activate in real time without fixed delay. Developing good habits can help you avoid issues.
After driving for so many years, I often remind beginners not to obsess over how many seconds after the yellow light goes out the camera will trigger. In reality, the system starts monitoring the moment the red light turns on. If you proceed after the yellow light goes out, the camera will detect your vehicle's position and take continuous photos as evidence. This isn't based on counting seconds but on the light's transition and your car's movement. I've seen too many accidents caused by rushing through yellow lights—it's just not worth it. The red-light camera rules are designed to penalize those who run red lights and protect everyone's safety. My advice is to start slowing down when you see the yellow light, come to a steady stop before the stop line, and maintain a safe distance. Developing this habit can save you a lot of trouble and fines.
