Is It a Violation If the Front of the Car Crosses the Stop Line When the Red Light Is On?
2 Answers
If the front of the car crosses the stop line when the red light is on but does not move further, it is not considered a violation. Here is some relevant information about cars crossing the stop line when the red light is on: 1. When the red light is on, and the entire vehicle crosses the stop line: If the vehicle completely crosses the stop line but does not continue moving, it is not considered running a red light. However, this situation is regarded as stopping beyond the line. According to Article 4, Section 5 of the 'Scoring Standards for Road Traffic Violations,' 'failing to drive or stop as required at an intersection will result in a 2-point deduction.' 2. When the red light is on, and the vehicle stops beyond the line and then reverses: Although this is not penalized as running a red light, motor vehicles are not allowed to reverse at railway crossings, intersections, one-way roads, bridges, sharp curves, steep slopes, or tunnels. If reversing is performed in violation of these rules, a warning or a fine ranging from 20 to 200 yuan may be imposed. If there is no immediate danger, it is better to stay still.
I think this issue touches on a key point of traffic rules. When the red light is on, if the front of the car just crosses the stop line but the vehicle comes to an immediate and complete stop, it generally doesn't count as running a red light violation. This is because running a red light refers to the entire vehicle entering the intersection and continuing to move. However, it might be considered improper stopping - for instance, if cameras capture wheels over the line without movement, some jurisdictions may issue warnings or minor fines. The crucial thing is not to proceed further, otherwise it's definitely a violation with a six-point penalty. I remember one heavy rain day when the road was slippery, I couldn't brake in time and the front crossed the line, but after stopping completely I wasn't fined - though it was truly frightening realizing the big risk of running red lights. Safe driving requires slowing down in advance, anticipating traffic signal changes, and maintaining sufficient braking distance to prevent accidents. Practicing braking responses repeatedly can prevent such situations - developing good habits is far better than regretting afterwards.
