Is it okay to drive through a just-turned red light?
2 Answers
If a vehicle has just crossed the stop line when the light turns red and stops immediately, the traffic authorities will not penalize it. However, if the vehicle continues to drive past the line, it will be penalized. Here are the relevant details: 1. The principle of red light cameras: Red light cameras operate on the principle that a vehicle is only considered to have run a red light if it passes through the intersection and reaches the opposite side. Simply crossing the stop line or stopping in the middle of the road when the light is red does not count as running a red light; at most, it is considered obstructing traffic. Compared to the penalty for running a red light, obstructing traffic usually results in a warning or a fine without points deducted. 2. Things to note: Since crossing the stop line when the light turns red is not an uncommon occurrence, traffic authorities have specifically addressed this issue. If a vehicle crosses the stop line when the light is red, the best course of action is to stop immediately and avoid reversing. Reversing not only violates traffic rules but also increases the risk of colliding with vehicles or pedestrians behind. Red light cameras typically capture moving vehicles, so staying still is the best choice.
As a seasoned driver, I particularly want to remind everyone: rushing through at the exact moment the light turns red is extremely risky. According to traffic regulations, as long as the front wheels cross the stop line after the red light comes on, it counts as running a red light, and this penalty standard is uniformly applied nationwide. Some places have particularly sensitive cameras that only need three photos to confirm the violation: the first captures the moment of crossing the line, the second shows the car moving through the intersection, and the third shows it entering the opposite lane. A friend of mine got caught this way, losing 6 points and 200 yuan instantly. What's even more concerning is the safety hazard—when the light changes, vehicles from the intersecting lanes are also starting to move, making it easy to cause a side collision if you rush through. And if a pedestrian happens to be crossing against their green light, the consequences could be unthinkable. If you're really in a hurry, it's better to leave earlier. Safety is more important than anything else.
