What to Do If You Run a Red Light by Following the Vehicle Ahead
3 Answers
In general, if a motor vehicle is captured on camera running a red light while following another vehicle, it is usually due to attempting to rush through the intersection. This behavior can only be penalized as running a red light. However, if it is confirmed that the driver could not see the traffic signal due to obstruction by the vehicle ahead, they can apply for reconsideration after being penalized. Drivers should maintain sufficient visibility range, ensuring they can see the traffic signals ahead and maintain a safe braking distance. Penalty points for running a red light: According to Article 2, Section 1, Clause 2 of the 'Scoring Standards for Road Traffic Violations,' driving a motor vehicle in violation of traffic signal instructions results in a deduction of 6 points. Article 3, Section 1, Clause 8 states that driving a motor vehicle in violation of prohibitory 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 view 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 traffic police branches in various districts and counties, using the touch-screen query terminals. Alternatively, log in to the official service websites of the public security traffic management bureaus of various cities, locate the 'Vehicle Violation Query' section, enter your license plate number and vehicle engine number, and click 'Query.'
I've also experienced accidentally running a red light by following the car ahead, and it was extremely stressful. The first thing is to stay calm and keep a firm grip on the steering wheel, then quickly pull over to a safe spot by the roadside. Don't reverse or make sudden movements, as that could be more dangerous. Then turn off the engine and check your surroundings—did you hit any other vehicles? Note down the exact time, location, and road conditions, such as your speed and the traffic light status, to help with any follow-up procedures. If you receive a ticket, don't rush to pay it. Call the traffic authorities to explain the situation and provide details to see if the penalty can be waived. This incident reminded me to always maintain a safe following distance, avoid blindly tailing other cars, and pay more attention to traffic light changes. If you get distracted, it might affect your insurance, so regularly reviewing your driving habits can help avoid trouble.
Having driven for many years, I know that the common reason for accidentally running a red light is following the car in front too closely. The first thing to do is ensure safety, slow down, pull over, and stop the car, then check for any accidents. If everything is normal, drive away from the scene. Don't panic if you receive a ticket—bring your dashcam footage to the traffic police station to explain the situation, as they usually understand accidental violations and may handle it with discretion. For prevention, develop the habit of judging traffic signals yourself instead of relying on the car in front. Maintain a safe following distance and avoid speeding. This might result in some points deducted or a fine, but the chances of a successful appeal are decent—the key is to stay calm and not worsen the consequences.
