What Are the Criteria for Determining Running a Red Light?
3 Answers
The determination is made by capturing three photos through 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 vehicle's position in the second photo, including the red traffic light and license plate number. Capturing these three photos confirms that the vehicle has run 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 indicates permission to proceed, 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 the traffic violation of running a red light. Six scenarios of running a red light: Stopping immediately after crossing the line at a red light (when the red light is on, the vehicle fails to brake in time, and the front of the vehicle crosses the stop line): If the vehicle has just crossed the stop line during a red light but stops immediately, this will not be penalized as running a red light. However, if there is obvious movement after crossing the line, it will be penalized. The three photos captured by the electronic camera for running a red light 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 will it be confirmed as running a red light, resulting in a 6-point deduction under the new regulations. Running a red light under the direction of a traffic officer (when the traffic light is red, but the officer signals to proceed): When there is a conflict between the traffic light and the officer's gesture, drivers must obey the officer's on-site command. If a driver runs a red light due to the officer's command, they can request a diversion certificate from the local traffic police station to avoid penalties. If the driver disputes the penalty, they can appeal through administrative reconsideration or administrative litigation. Stopping after the entire vehicle crosses the line at a red light (failing to brake in time, resulting in the entire vehicle crossing the stop line): If the vehicle stops after completely crossing the stop line without further movement, this is not considered running a red light but rather crossing the stop line. Reversing after crossing the line (attempting to avoid penalties by reversing after crossing the stop line at a red light): Motor vehicles are prohibited from reversing at railway crossings, intersections, one-way roads, bridges, sharp curves, steep slopes, or tunnels. Violators may receive a warning or a fine. Accidentally running a red light behind a large vehicle (due to obstructed visibility, following the large vehicle through the intersection): Drivers must maintain sufficient visibility to see the traffic signals ahead and ensure a safe braking distance. Generally, if a motor vehicle is photographed behind a large vehicle, it is due to rushing through the intersection. This behavior will be penalized as running a red light. Passing through an intersection during a yellow light (when the signal turns yellow): The traffic police department states that Article 91 of the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China" stipulates that vehicles that have already crossed the stop line when the yellow light is flashing may continue to proceed. If the driver continues to rush through after the yellow light is on, this will also be considered running a red light if captured.
I've found that the criteria for determining running a red light are quite clear. It mainly depends on whether your vehicle has crossed the stop line at the moment the red light turns on. Having driven for decades, I've encountered many such situations. For instance, at some highway intersections, the duration of the yellow light is very short, and it's easy to cross the line just as it turns red if you're not careful. This will be captured by traffic cameras and recorded as running a red light, with evidence including photos and timestamp data. The traffic police system will automatically process it, resulting in unavoidable penalty points and fines. The key is to slow down in advance and not risk rushing through a yellow light—safety comes first. I believe it's important for everyone to develop the habit of coming to a complete stop before the red light, not trying to save a few seconds, as this can prevent many accidents and troubles.
From my understanding of traffic regulations, running a red light is typically determined by surveillance systems. When the light turns red, if a vehicle crosses the stop line and enters the intersection, it will be captured by cameras as evidence. I've also noticed some details, such as the system calculating the precise match between the vehicle's position and timing before confirming a violation. Urban intersections are often equipped with high-definition devices, so don't count on getting away with it. Developing the habit of observing light changes is crucial. I always remind myself to slow down and wait a few extra seconds—safety is far more important than saving time. This not only protects yourself but also avoids putting others at risk.
