
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.

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.

From a technical perspective, the three-photo standard for running a red light is ingeniously designed. The first photo captures the moment you cross the stop line, ensuring the red light is on. The second photo records your vehicle leaving the stop line area and moving into the center of the intersection. The third photo, usually a close-up, verifies the vehicle's position and license plate information, allowing the electronic eye system to accurately capture the violation. This process minimizes errors—such as blurred images due to low light or rainy conditions—and the system also includes manual review. When encountering a yellow light while driving, it's best to slow down and stop; otherwise, getting caught in all three photos means a ticket is inevitable. With traffic cameras widely distributed, knowing the rules can help you avoid risks.

According to traffic regulations, running a red light is determined based on three consecutive photo evidences. The first photo shows the vehicle crossing the stop line while the traffic light is red. The second photo captures the vehicle completely passing the stop line and entering the intersection area. The third photo records the vehicle's position inside the intersection, typically requiring clear visibility of the license plate details. These standards aim to ensure fairness and prevent law enforcement errors. If you only slightly cross the line without moving forward and the latter two photos are not captured, it does not constitute a violation. In practice, penalties for running a red light are quite severe, including fines and demerit points, and may also be recorded on the driving license. Obeying red light signals is not only about abiding by the law but also about self-protection. Pay more attention to traffic light changes and develop the habit of anticipation.


