What to Do If a Large Vehicle Blocks the Traffic Light and You Run a Red Light?
3 Answers
In general, if a motor vehicle is photographed running a red light while following a large vehicle, it is usually because the driver rushed through the intersection when the signal was changing. This behavior can only be penalized as running a red light. However, if it is confirmed that the signal light was blocked by the large vehicle and thus invisible, the driver can apply for a reconsideration after being penalized. Drivers should maintain a sufficient viewing range to ensure they can see the signal lights ahead and maintain a safe braking distance. Penalty Points for Running a Red Light: According to Article 2, Paragraph 1, Item 2 of the "Scoring Standards for Road Traffic Safety Violations," driving a motor vehicle in violation of traffic signal lights results in a deduction of 6 points. Article 3, Paragraph 1, Item 8 states that driving a motor vehicle in violation of prohibition signs or markings results in a deduction of 3 points. How to Check for Red Light Violations: You can check for red light violations through the "Traffic Management 12123" app. After opening the app, log in using your ID card, find the "Violation Handling" option, and click on it. Under "Violation Handling," you can see the current status of your vehicle. If there are any violations, the specific details will be displayed. You can also check by visiting the office halls of the traffic police departments in various cities, districts, or counties and using the touch query terminals. Alternatively, log in to the external service websites of the Public Security Traffic Management Bureau of each city, find the "Vehicle Violation Query" section, enter your license plate number and engine number, and click "Query."
Having driven for over twenty years, I've encountered situations where large vehicles ahead blocked the traffic lights several times. The first reaction must be swift—never accelerate to rush through. Immediately step on the brake to slow down and find a safe spot to pull over, such as beside the sidewalk or the outer edge of the non-motorized lane. After stopping, observe the traffic light changes and wait for it to turn green before starting again. If you do run a red light, you might face a fine or penalty points—don’t panic. When appealing to the traffic police, bring evidence like dashcam footage to prove it was caused by obstructed visibility. Prevention is key in daily driving: maintain a distance of at least 5 to 10 meters from large vehicles to clearly see the signals; be extra cautious in bad weather like rain or fog. Safety always comes first—don’t take risks to save time, and make it a habit to scan auxiliary roadside signals. In short, staying calm in emergencies and reflecting afterward are most important.
I experienced this when I just got my driver's license, and it felt quite scary. The truck in front was too tall, blocking all traffic signals from view. I instinctively stepped on the accelerator to pass, only for the red light to turn on, which gave me quite a fright. Now I've learned better: in such situations, immediately slow down and stop, regardless of the honking from cars behind. After safely pulling over, wait for the signal to change before proceeding. If you do run a red light, don't evade responsibility; prepare appeal materials like mobile phone recordings or navigation logs. For prevention, remember to maintain a safe distance, avoid following large vehicles too closely, and preferably change lanes. Make good use of navigation apps for real-time signal status alerts. Drive more cautiously and develop good observation habits to reduce risks.
