Will Running a Yellow Light Trigger a Camera?
2 Answers
Traffic cameras will photograph vehicles entering an intersection during a yellow light. According to the Road Traffic Safety Law, a yellow light serves as a warning, and motor vehicles should slow down when approaching an intersection. If your vehicle has already crossed the stop line when the yellow light activates, you may proceed through the intersection. If your vehicle has not yet crossed the stop line, you should slow down and come to a stop. Running a yellow light constitutes a violation of traffic signal regulations, punishable by a fine ranging from 20 to 200 yuan and 6 penalty points. (1) When the green light is on, vehicles and pedestrians are permitted to proceed, except that turning vehicles must not hinder the passage of straight-moving vehicles or pedestrians with the right of way; (2) When the yellow light is on, vehicles and pedestrians are prohibited from proceeding, except for vehicles that have already crossed the stop line and pedestrians already within the crosswalk, who may continue; (3) When the red light is on, vehicles and pedestrians are prohibited from proceeding.
As an experienced driver, I always assess the situation when encountering a yellow light: If I'm close to the intersection and can stop safely, I'll brake to halt; if braking sharply might cause a rear-end collision, I'll maintain speed and proceed. In most cities, traffic cameras primarily capture vehicles running red lights—those entering the intersection after the light turns red. If you've crossed the stop line while the light is still yellow, you generally won't be photographed. Having driven in various regions, I've noticed slight rule variations—some highway intersections monitor the tail end of yellow lights, though it's rare. Prioritize safe driving over saving a few seconds by risking acceleration. Once on a rainy day, I misjudged a yellow light and nearly hit a pedestrian—a profound lesson. In short, treat yellow lights as warning signals: stay calm, put safety first, and you'll avoid problems.
