If the front wheels cross the line at a yellow light and it turns red, can I continue to drive?
2 Answers
If the vehicle has already crossed the stop line when the light turns yellow, it can continue to drive and it is not considered running a red light. According to regulations, when the yellow light is on, vehicles that have already crossed the stop line can continue to pass. Running a red light requires three photos to be taken: one when the front of the vehicle crosses the stop line at a red light, one when the rear of the vehicle crosses the stop line, and one when the entire vehicle completely passes the crosswalk. All three conditions must be met to constitute running a red light. According to Article 38 of the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China": 1. When the green light is on: vehicles are allowed to pass, but turning vehicles must not hinder the passage of straight-going vehicles or pedestrians; 2. When the yellow light is on: vehicles that have already crossed the stop line can continue to pass; 3. When the red light is on: vehicles are prohibited from passing.
In all my years of driving, I've often encountered situations where the light turns red after my front wheels have crossed the stop line at a yellow light. Technically, you're allowed to proceed because once you enter the intersection, you must safely complete your passage. Forcing a sudden stop could actually cause a rear-end collision. However, in reality, it depends on the specific circumstances, such as whether the intersection has red-light cameras that report violations. In some areas, continuing through after your front wheels have crossed the line when the light turns red can result in penalties. My advice is to make an early judgment at the yellow light about whether to stop. If you're traveling at a higher speed or can't safely brake in time, proceed through. But developing defensive driving habits is crucial—don't rely on luck to avoid fines or points on your license.
