Will I be penalized if I stop in the middle of the road after running half a red light?
2 Answers
Stopping in the middle of the road after running half a red light will result in penalties. Although it will not be considered as running a red light, it will obstruct the normal traffic flow from other directions, which constitutes traffic obstruction and will incur a fine of 200 yuan and a deduction of 3 points. If the vehicle has just crossed the stop line at a red light but stops immediately, it will not be penalized for this red light interruption. However, if there is obvious movement after crossing the line, penalties will apply. The electronic eye captures three photos for a red light violation: the vehicle crossing the stop line, followed by two more photos showing the vehicle moving to the middle of the intersection and reaching the opposite side. Only after obtaining these three photos will it be considered as running a red light. According to the new regulations, this will result in a deduction of 6 points and a fine ranging from 20 to 200 yuan.
I've been driving for quite some years, and this matter depends on the rule details. Running a red light refers to when the vehicle's axle crosses the stop line while the signal light is still red, and even if you stop midway without moving, you'll still be fined. Electronic police will capture the exact position, usually at intersections covered by surveillance, and they catch offenders accurately. The penalty standard is typically 6 demerit points and a 200 yuan fine, which might be higher in big cities. Stopping in the middle of the road is particularly dangerous; other vehicles might not brake in time and rear-end you, or block the intersection and disrupt order. Develop the habit of slowing down when approaching an intersection, and decisively stop when the light turns yellow—don't force your way through. If it happens, move to safety as soon as possible, and avoid arguing with traffic police to prevent trouble. Safety on the road comes first; small mistakes left uncorrected can lead to major disasters, which would be tragic.
