What are the criteria for determining a red light running violation?
1 Answers
The determination is made based on three photos captured by electronic cameras: 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, including the red traffic light and license plate number; the third photo shows the vehicle continuing to move, mainly by comparing the change in the vehicle's position from the second photo, including the red traffic light and license plate number. Capturing these three photos confirms a red light running violation. Red light running 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 indicates permission to proceed, and a yellow light serves as a warning. Running a red light is a traffic violation where a vehicle crosses an intersection while the light is red. Six scenarios of red light running: Stopping immediately after crossing the line (when the light turns red, the vehicle fails to stop in time and the front crosses the stop line): If the vehicle only slightly crosses the stop line and stops immediately, it is not penalized. However, if there is noticeable movement after crossing the line, it will be penalized. The three photos required for a red light running violation are: the front wheels crossing the stop line, the rear wheels crossing the stop line, and the front wheels crossing the opposite stop line. Only when all three photos are present is it considered a red light running violation, which incurs a 6-point deduction under the new regulations. Running a red light under police direction (the light is red, but the traffic officer signals to proceed): When there is a conflict between the traffic light and the officer's gesture, drivers must follow the officer's instructions. If a driver runs a red light due to the officer's direction, they can request a diversion certificate from the local traffic police department to avoid penalties. If the driver disagrees with the penalty, they can appeal through administrative reconsideration or litigation. Stopping after the entire vehicle crosses the line (failing to brake in time, causing the entire vehicle to cross the stop line): If the vehicle stops completely after crossing the stop line without further movement, it is not considered a red light running violation but rather a stop line violation. Reversing after crossing the line (attempting to avoid penalties by reversing after crossing the stop line at a red light): Reversing is prohibited at railway crossings, intersections, one-way roads, bridges, sharp curves, steep slopes, or tunnels. Violators may receive a warning or fine. Accidentally running a red light behind a large vehicle: Drivers must maintain sufficient visibility to see traffic signals and ensure a safe braking distance. Typically, vehicles caught behind large vehicles at intersections are penalized for rushing through the signal, which is treated as a red light running violation. Passing through the intersection during a yellow light (crossing the intersection when the light turns yellow): According to Article 91 of the Implementation Regulations of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China, vehicles that have already crossed the stop line when the yellow light flashes may continue to proceed. If a driver speeds through a yellow light, it may still be considered a red light running violation if captured.
