
Not turning on headlights will not be captured by electronic surveillance cameras. What electronic surveillance cameras capture: Traffic violations such as running red lights, driving in the wrong direction, speeding, crossing lane lines, and illegal parking. They provide 24/7 monitoring, capturing images and information of vehicle violations, and conduct post-violation processing based on the captured information, representing a new traffic management model. The process of electronic surveillance cameras capturing red light running: Electronic surveillance cameras detect the pressure from vehicles on the road through induction loops embedded in the ground. When the red light is on, if the front wheels cross the line, a signal is generated, and the first photo is taken; if the vehicle does not stop and continues moving forward, another signal is generated when the rear wheels cross, completing the second photo; when the vehicle reaches the induction loop at the opposite intersection, the third photo is taken; if a vehicle is continuously captured in three photos while the red light is on, the system will consider it as running a red light; the command center receives the photos, compares the license plate information with the vehicle management database, and personnel enter the data into the system.

I've been driving for decades and often encounter cameras on the road. Whether driving without headlights will be captured depends on the situation. Generally, electronic eyes mainly target obvious violations like speeding and running red lights. Not turning on headlights isn't a routine monitoring target. However, at night or in low-visibility weather when the law requires headlights, cameras may record your failure to use them, and traffic police may later issue fines. When I worked night shifts in the city, I occasionally heard friends complain about being fined, and the penalties weren't small. Actually, driving without headlights isn't just about risking fines—it's a major safety hazard, especially in dimly lit areas where other vehicles or pedestrians can hardly see you, increasing collision risks. So, regardless of whether cameras catch it, I always remind myself to turn on the lights immediately at dusk or in fog. Developing good habits is far more important than saving a bit on electricity.

As a new driver who just got my license, I also worry about whether these details would lead to fines, like whether not turning on the lights would be caught by electronic surveillance. Actually, traffic cameras come in different types. For example, red-light running cameras prioritize certain violations, and not turning on lights isn't usually their main focus. However, if you forget to turn on your lights in situations where it's mandatory, such as at night or in rainy/foggy conditions, the system might detect it and trigger an alert. Once, I forgot to turn on my lights while driving at night and received a reminder message after being caught by a roadside camera. The key is to learn traffic rules, which vary by region but generally require lights to be turned on in low-light conditions for safety. I recommend regularly checking your vehicle's lighting functions to avoid regret after a violation. Developing a habit of manually turning on the lights when starting the car can give you more peace of mind.

From a safety perspective, I'm far more concerned about the risks of not turning on headlights than the issue of fines. Electronic surveillance systems may automatically detect vehicles without lights in specific scenarios like tunnel entrances or highway on-ramps, but the primary focus should be accident prevention. Headlights are essential for nighttime driving - failing to use them reduces visibility and increases the probability of rear-end collisions or pedestrian accidents. I've personally witnessed such terrifying cases. Complying with lighting regulations protects all road users and demonstrates responsible driving.


