Where does the vehicle body count as running a red light?
2 Answers
It is determined by capturing three photos with electronic cameras. The first photo shows the vehicle crossing the stop line at the intersection, including the red light and license plate number. The second photo shows the vehicle completely passing the stop line, including the red light and license plate number. The third photo shows the vehicle continuing to move, mainly by comparing the position change of the vehicle in the second photo, including the red light and license plate number. Capturing these three photos can determine that the vehicle ran a red light. 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 indicates permission to pass, and a yellow light serves as a warning. A red light is a traffic signal prohibiting passage, and if a vehicle passes through an intersection during a red light, it constitutes the traffic violation of running a red light. Six situations of running a red light: Stopping immediately after crossing the line at a red light (when the red light is on, the vehicle cannot stop in time, and the front of the vehicle crosses the stop line): If the vehicle only just crosses the stop line during a red light but stops immediately, this act of running a red light will not be penalized. However, if there is obvious 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 these three photos are complete will it be considered running a red light. According to Article 10 of the "Regulations on the Handling Procedures for Road Traffic Safety Violations", this will result in a deduction of 6 points. Running a red light under the direction of a traffic officer (the signal is red, but the traffic officer on duty indicates permission to pass): When there is a conflict between the traffic signal and the traffic officer's gesture, the driver must obey the on-site command of the traffic officer. If the driver runs a red light due to the traffic officer's on-site command, the driver can obtain a diversion certificate from the local traffic police station to avoid penalties. If the party disagrees with the penalty, they can appeal through administrative reconsideration or administrative litigation. Stopping after the entire vehicle body crosses the line at a red light (failing to brake in time, causing the entire vehicle body to cross the stop line): If the entire vehicle crosses the stop line and does not continue to move, this does not count as running a red light. Reversing after crossing the line (attempting to avoid penalties by reversing after crossing the line at a red light): Motor vehicles are not allowed to reverse at railway crossings, intersections, one-way roads, bridges, sharp curves, steep slopes, or tunnels. If a vehicle reverses illegally, it may be subject to a warning or fine. Mistakenly running a red light behind a large vehicle (due to the large vehicle blocking the view, 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 following a large vehicle, it is because it rushed through the intersection to catch the signal. This behavior can only be penalized as running a red light. Passing through the intersection during a yellow light (passing through the intersection when the signal turns yellow): The traffic police department states that according to the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China", when the yellow light at an intersection is flashing, vehicles that have already crossed the stop line can continue to pass. If the yellow light is already on and the vehicle continues to rush through, it will be considered running a red light if photographed.
Over the years of driving, I've seen many people misunderstand the rules about running red lights. In reality, when the red light is on, if any part of your vehicle crosses the stop line, it counts as running a red light. This means if your bumper or wheels cross that white line into the intersection, traffic cameras or police officers may catch you and issue a ticket. A friend of mine got into trouble with this last year—he thought it didn't count as long as the rear wheels were still behind the line, but ended up with penalty points and a fine. The yellow light is a signal to prepare to stop, not to speed up and rush through. In daily driving, I've developed the habit of braking early, paying attention to traffic light timing, and ensuring my vehicle comes to a complete stop behind the stop line. Safety comes first—a small oversight could lead to a major accident, especially during rush hour when traffic at intersections is heavy. Looking back, I made similar mistakes as a beginner, and now I always educate my family to be vigilant about these details.
