Is it a traffic violation to make phone calls while waiting at a red light?
2 Answers
Making phone calls while waiting at a red light is considered part of driving and is a traffic violation. The "Ministry of Public Security Traffic Management Bureau's Guidance on the Identification and Handling of Road Traffic Violations (1)" stipulates that if a driver operates a mobile phone in handheld mode to make or receive calls, send or receive text messages, watch videos, or operate mobile apps while driving, it will be identified as the illegal act of making or receiving handheld phone calls while driving a motor vehicle. The driver will be penalized with 2 demerit points on their license and a fine. However, if the driver uses a hands-free car phone, mobile phone earphones, or speakerphone function for calls without compromising safety, it will not be considered a violation. Making phone calls while driving distracts the driver's attention and hinders their observation of road conditions and surroundings. In case of emergencies or unexpected situations, it significantly reduces the driver's ability to react and response time, greatly increasing the risk of traffic accidents. Phone use while driving narrows the driver's field of vision and weakens peripheral visual awareness. Drivers on the phone are more likely to miss traffic signals and often overlook signs and notices. If it is absolutely necessary to make a call in an emergency, the correct approach is to find a safe place to park the vehicle before using the handheld phone. Additionally, if safety can be ensured, using a car phone or speakerphone function is also acceptable.
Using a phone while waiting at a red light is indeed a traffic violation. I've seen many drivers think it's fine since the car is stationary, only to be caught on camera. Traffic police clearly state that as long as the vehicle is running, holding a phone to make calls or watch videos—even at a red light—will result in a 2-point penalty and a fine ranging from 50 to 200 yuan. Personal experience tells me that high-definition cameras can now even detect if you're playing games like Candy Crush on the steering wheel. The key issue is that this behavior is genuinely dangerous. Last time I got distracted answering a call, I almost missed the green light and was honked at by the car behind me, which left me feeling guilty. My advice: connect to a Bluetooth headset as soon as you get in the car—it’s safer and hassle-free.
