Is running a red light captured from the front or the rear?
3 Answers
When a vehicle runs a red light, it is captured by electronic cameras through three photos to determine the violation. The first photo shows the vehicle crossing the stop line at the intersection, including the red light signal and license plate number; the second photo shows the vehicle completely passing the stop line, including the red light signal and license plate number; the third photo shows the vehicle continuing to move, mainly by comparing the position change of the vehicle in the second photo, including the red light signal and license plate number. Capturing these three photos confirms the vehicle ran a red light. The act of running a red light is clearly defined in the "Road Traffic Safety Law." Article 26 states that traffic signals consist of red, green, and yellow lights. A red light indicates prohibition of passage, a green light permits passage, and a yellow light serves as a warning. A red light is a traffic signal prohibiting passage, and driving through an intersection during a red light constitutes a traffic violation. Here are some tips to avoid running a red light: Check the arrow light first, then the circular light: There are currently two types of traffic lights: arrow traffic lights and circular traffic lights. When an arrow light is present, check the arrow light first and then the circular light to avoid running a red light. Note: When encountering a circular red light, you can turn right; when encountering an arrow signal light with a red right-turn arrow, you cannot turn right, otherwise, it will be penalized as running a red light. Brake in time: When the red light turns on, ensure the front of your vehicle does not cross the stop line. If the front wheels accidentally cross, and the rear wheels follow, the electronic camera will capture it, resulting in a penalty for running a red light. If the front wheels have just crossed the stop line when the light turns red, do not proceed through the intersection; wait for the green light. Check the green light countdown before proceeding: When the green light flashes, if there is a countdown, use it to judge; if there is no countdown, and you are close to the intersection with high speed, you may proceed to avoid running a red light due to delayed braking. If your speed is slow and you are far from the intersection, brake immediately to stop and avoid running a red light. 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 pass, but turning vehicles must not hinder the passage of straight-moving vehicles or pedestrians. When the yellow light is on, vehicles that have already crossed the stop line may continue to pass. When the red light is on, vehicles are prohibited from passing. At intersections without non-motorized vehicle or pedestrian crosswalk signals, non-motorized vehicles and pedestrians should follow the motor vehicle signal. When the red light is on, right-turning vehicles may pass if they do not hinder the passage of other vehicles or pedestrians. Running a red light is not considered a violation under the following circumstances: Yielding to emergency vehicles: Yielding to ambulances, fire trucks, or other emergency vehicles. If captured by surveillance cameras while yielding, manual review will not record the act as running a red light. Even if recorded, you can apply for reconsideration at the traffic police department. Extreme weather: When visibility is extremely low, and even electronic police cannot clearly see the traffic lights. Blurry evidence photos may result in no penalty for mistakenly running a red light. Emergency situations: Transporting a critically ill patient to the hospital may involve running multiple red lights. After delivering the patient, provide proof from the hospital or the rescued individual to the traffic police for verification. If confirmed, the violation records can be cleared. If possible, call an ambulance to avoid accidents caused by running red lights. Police direction: During peak hours, traffic police may temporarily direct traffic at key intersections. Drivers should follow the gestures of the traffic police.
I've been driving for over a decade, and this kind of issue is common. Red light cameras usually capture the rear of the vehicle because the license plate is easier to identify from the back. The equipment is installed on traffic signal poles or under overpasses. Why the rear? The fixed position of the license plate makes it easier for the system to capture the plate number and match it with the timing of the red light. However, some high-end areas might use omnidirectional cameras that can capture the front of the car or even the driver's face, but that's rare. Remember, intersections have induction loops or radar triggers that activate the camera if your rear wheels cross the stop line when the light turns red. It's quite effective—I once rushed through in the city and almost made it, but got caught on camera and fined 200 yuan. In short, safety first—don't run red lights. Not only is there a fine and points deducted, but if an accident happens, the consequences are severe. Develop the habit of slowing down before a red light and watch for roadside warning signs to reduce the chances of getting caught.
From a technical perspective, I've studied traffic cameras. They typically capture the rear of vehicles, synchronized with license plate recognition systems and red-light sensors. The cameras, often equipped with infrared or high-definition lenses, are mounted on road shoulders or poles, specifically aimed at the rear of vehicles to ensure clear capture of license plate details for platform comparison. Why not the front? Windshield glare or wiper interference on the front can cause blurring, whereas rear license plates are clearer and easier to process. Modern systems have been upgraded, incorporating AI for intelligent analysis of speed and position to prevent misjudgment. I've simulated scenarios where crossing the stop line triggers video recording as backup evidence. But don't rely on luck—high-definition cameras cover major intersections nationwide with high efficiency. For safety, strictly adhere to traffic signals; this system is designed to enhance order and prevent accidents.
