What are the three photo standards for determining a red light violation?

[Tommy]

Three photos captured by electronic cameras are used to determine a red light violation: a photo of the vehicle crossing the intersection stop line, including the traffic light showing red and the license plate number; a photo of the vehicle completely passing the stop line, including the traffic light showing red and the license plate number; and a photo showing the vehicle continuing to move, by comparing whether the vehicle's position has changed, including the traffic light showing red and the license plate number. Capturing these three photos confirms a red light violation. 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 when the light is red constitutes a red light violation. Six types of red light violations: Stopping immediately after crossing the line at a red light (when the light turns red, the vehicle fails to brake in time, and the front of the car crosses the stop line): If the vehicle has just crossed the stop line when the light is red but stops immediately, this will not be penalized as a red light violation. However, if there is noticeable movement after crossing the line, it will be penalized. The three photos captured by electronic cameras for a red light 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 will it be considered a red light violation, resulting in a 6-point deduction and a 200-yuan fine under Article 90 of the new "Road Traffic Safety Law." Running a red light under police direction (the signal is red, but the traffic officer signals to proceed): When there is a conflict between the traffic signal and the officer's gesture, the driver must obey the officer's on-site command. If a red light violation occurs due to the officer's direction, the driver 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 at a red light (failing to brake in time, causing the entire vehicle to cross the stop line): If the vehicle stops after completely crossing the stop line without further movement, this is not considered a red light violation but rather a stop-line crossing violation. 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 view by a large vehicle ahead, following it through the intersection): Drivers must maintain sufficient visibility to see traffic signals and ensure a safe braking distance. Generally, if a vehicle is photographed following a large vehicle through an intersection, it is considered a red light violation and will be penalized accordingly. Passing through an intersection during a yellow light (when the signal turns yellow): Traffic authorities state 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 pass. However, if the driver speeds through after the yellow light has already turned on, this will be considered a red light violation if captured.

[MacFelicity]

I've been driving for many years and know all about getting caught running a red light. Those three standard photos are quite crucial. The first one captures you just crossing the stop line as the red light comes on, with the camera snapping a shot. The second photo takes a picture of your car completely passing through and entering the intersection. The third one captures your position in the middle of the intersection, sometimes ensuring the license plate number is clearly in focus. This method is designed to prevent misjudgment—for example, if you occasionally stop after crossing the line but the latter two photos aren't taken, it might not count as running the light. When driving, it's advisable not to rush through yellow lights; wait patiently for a full green before proceeding. If you do run a red light, the consequences are severe—not just fines and points deducted, but also a higher risk of accidents. Always pay attention to traffic signal changes while driving and develop good habits to save yourself trouble.