What are the three standard photos for running a red light?
2 Answers
The determination is made by capturing three photos with an electronic camera: 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, primarily by comparing the vehicle's position changes from 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. Six scenarios of running a red light: Stopping immediately after crossing the line at a red light (when the light turns red, the vehicle cannot stop 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 is not penalized as running a red light. However, if there is noticeable movement after crossing the line, it will be penalized. The three photos captured by the electronic eye 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 deemed as running a red light, resulting in a 6-point deduction under Article 2 of the "Road Traffic Violation Points System." Running a red light under police direction (the signal is red, but the traffic officer signals permission to proceed): When there is a conflict between the traffic signal and the officer's gesture, motor vehicle drivers must obey the officer's on-site command. If a driver runs a red light due to the officer's command, they can obtain a diversion certificate from the local traffic police department to avoid penalties. If the driver disputes the penalty, they can appeal through administrative reconsideration or administrative litigation. Stopping with the entire vehicle over the line at a red light (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 running a red light but rather stopping beyond the line. Reversing after stopping beyond the line (attempting to avoid penalties by reversing after stopping beyond the 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. Violations may result in a warning or fine. Accidentally running a red light behind a large vehicle (due to obstructed visibility from the large vehicle ahead, following it 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 (crossing the intersection when the signal turns yellow):
After driving for over a decade, I've learned that running a red light is confirmed mainly through three photos: The first shows your front wheels crossing the stop line while the light is red, proving you initiated the violation; the second captures your car moving through the intersection, showing you in the act of running the red light; and the third is taken after your car has completely crossed the intersection while the light is still red, confirming the entire process. This system is designed to prevent misjudgments, such as if you braked a bit late and only crossed the line without proceeding through the intersection, which wouldn't count as running a red light. Remember to stay alert while driving, slow down in advance, and watch the lights—don't rush those few seconds. Otherwise, fines and points are minor issues compared to the increased risk of accidents. We veteran drivers always recommend maintaining a safe distance to give yourself enough reaction time.