Electronic cameras capture three photos to determine a red light violation. The first photo shows the vehicle crossing the stop line at the intersection, including the red traffic light and license plate number; the second photo shows the vehicle completely crossing the stop line, also including the red light and license plate; the third photo shows the vehicle continuing to move, mainly by comparing the position change from the second photo, including the red light and license plate. Capturing these three photos confirms a red light violation. According to the Road Traffic Safety Law, running a red light is clearly defined. Article 26 states that traffic signals consist of red, green, and yellow lights. A red light prohibits passage, a green light permits passage, and a yellow light serves as a warning. Driving through an intersection during a red light constitutes a traffic violation. Here are some tips to avoid running a red light: Check arrow signals first, then circular signals: Currently, there are two types of traffic lights: arrow signals and circular signals. When arrow signals are present, drivers should first observe the arrow light and then the circular light to avoid violations. Note: At a circular red light, right turns are permitted unless prohibited by signage. However, if the right-turn arrow is red, turning right is prohibited and will be penalized as a red light violation. Brake in time: When the light turns red, ensure the front of the vehicle does not cross the stop line. If the front wheels accidentally cross, but the rear wheels follow, the electronic camera will capture it, resulting in a penalty. If the front wheels have just crossed the stop line when the light turns red, wait for the next green light before proceeding. Monitor the green light countdown: When the green light flashes, if there is a countdown, use it to judge whether to proceed. If there is no countdown, and the vehicle is close to the intersection at high speed, it may proceed to avoid sudden braking. If the vehicle is far from the intersection or moving slowly, brake immediately to avoid a violation. Article 38 of the Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China states: When the green light is on, vehicles are permitted to proceed, but turning vehicles must not obstruct straight-moving vehicles or pedestrians. When the yellow light is on, vehicles that have already crossed the stop line may continue. When the red light is on, vehicles are prohibited from proceeding. At intersections without separate pedestrian or non-motorized vehicle signals, pedestrians and non-motorized vehicles must follow the motor vehicle signals. When the red light is on, right-turning vehicles may proceed if they do not obstruct other vehicles or pedestrians. Running a red light is not penalized in the following situations: Yielding to emergency vehicles: Yielding to ambulances, fire trucks, or other emergency vehicles. If captured by traffic cameras, manual review will exclude the violation. Even if recorded, drivers can appeal to traffic authorities. Extreme weather: If visibility is too low for even electronic cameras to clearly identify the traffic light, violations due to mistaken red light running will not be penalized. Emergencies: Transporting a critically ill patient to the hospital may involve multiple red light violations. After delivery, the driver can present hospital or patient documentation to traffic authorities for verification and penalty removal. If possible, calling an ambulance is recommended to avoid accidents. Police direction: During peak hours, traffic officers may direct vehicles at key intersections. Drivers must follow their hand signals. Traffic authorities clarify that under the Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law, vehicles that have crossed the stop line when the yellow light flashes may continue. However, accelerating through a yellow light may still be penalized as a red light violation if captured.
