Is it considered running a red light if you go straight on a left-turn red light?

[DelKennedy]

Going straight on a left-turn red light is considered running a red light. Below are the relevant penalty regulations for running a red light by going straight on a left-turn red light: 1. If a motor vehicle drives straight in a left-turn lane, it can be penalized according to Article 51, Paragraph 1 of the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law": When a motor vehicle passes through an intersection controlled by traffic signals, driving straight in a left-turn lane constitutes driving not in accordance with the guided lane, which is a traffic violation. 2. For motor vehicles running a red light, since the new traffic law was enacted in 2013, traffic rules have become very strict. The new traffic law stipulates: Starting from January 1, 2013, the penalty for running a red light was changed from a fine of 200 yuan and 3 demerit points to a fine of 200 yuan and 6 demerit points.

[OKaleb]

A friend asked about this the other day, so let me share my thoughts. If the left-turn arrow at an intersection is red and you go straight through, whether it counts as running a red light depends on which lane you're in. If you're in the left-turn lane and you proceed straight through the intersection when the light is red, it absolutely counts as running a red light because the signal applies to that direction—red means no movement is allowed. This is just as dangerous as running a red light and can easily lead to a collision or being rear-ended. I made a similar mistake while driving once and got caught by a camera, resulting in a 200-yuan fine. The key to safe driving is waiting for the green light before moving, keeping an eye on road signs and signals, and not taking unnecessary risks to save a few seconds—the penalty points and lessons can be harsh. I recommend slowing down in advance when approaching intersections to observe the situation and ensure everything is safe.

[McEmilia]

Bro, to put it simply, if you go straight when the left turn light is red, it's most likely considered running a red light. The rule is to stop at red and go at green, whether you're turning left or going straight. As long as the signal light turns red specifically for your direction, forcing your way through is a violation. I tried it once at an intersection and almost got rear-ended, with the camera flashing alarms. In actual driving, if you're in the straight lane and all lights are green, it's fine, but going straight from a left turn lane when it's red is not okay. Don't underestimate this—it's points off your license plus a fine. Remember to watch the signals and wait for the green light before moving, for peace of mind and safety. Those cameras are smart enough to track lane positions, so there's no escaping them. Develop the habit of not rushing when driving to avoid any mishaps.

[HenryLee]

As a driver who values road safety, I'd like to remind everyone. Going straight when the left-turn signal is red is generally considered running a red light, because the red signal prohibits all movement, regardless of whether you're turning or going straight. Ignoring traffic signals like this is not only a violation but could also lead to serious accidents, such as collisions with other vehicles or pedestrians. At intersections, you must follow the lane signals: a red left-turn arrow means no movement in that direction. I've seen statistics showing many accidents caused by similar violations. Safety should always come first—I recommend slowing down, stopping, and looking carefully at every intersection, waiting for the green light to proceed safely. Protect yourself and your family by not taking unnecessary risks.

[LillianAnn]

Let's talk about this from a traffic technology perspective. Modern intersection signal systems are intelligent, and the red left-turn arrow is specifically designed as a no-entry sign for that direction. If you proceed straight through, surveillance cameras can identify vehicle trajectories and lane positions, typically resulting in a red-light violation. This is implemented to prevent crossing conflicts, such as straight-moving vehicles accidentally entering opposing traffic flows. When driving, pay attention to signal types: full green light means straight passage is permitted, but specialized signals require strict compliance. It's recommended to use in-car navigation systems to assist with signal rule recognition. Technology makes traffic safer - obeying it keeps you free from fine risks.

[EvanAnn]

The traffic regulations are clear on this matter: proceeding straight through a left-turn red light counts as running a red light. A red light signifies no passage is allowed, regardless of directional changes—crossing the intersection straight still violates signal requirements. This is especially evident in left-turn lanes, where violations result in fines and penalty points, easily captured by smart cameras. Based on the rules, this design ensures the safety of all road users. I've handled similar cases before, which can easily lead to accidents. Always check traffic signals before driving—waiting for the green light is the safest approach.