We all know green means go and red means stop, right? So why do so many drivers — both new and experienced — end up with traffic tickets? And what's the punishment for running a red light, anyway? We spent hours researching each state's red light laws to break them down for you. And if you've gotten this kind of ticket recently, read to the end to learn what to do next.
Yellow Lights vs Red Lights
Solid yellow lights give you a warning that your flow of traffic through the intersection will stop soon. When you see them, brake gently and come to a full stop at the marked line.
Now, running a yellow light is not illegal. If you're so close to the intersection that braking would be a hazard for other drivers, keep driving.
Red lights, on the other hand, always mean stop.
Running a Red Light
All states have laws against running a red light. They're there to protect pedestrians and other drivers. In most cases, clearing through an intersection at a red light counts as a moving violation, and it often carries a hefty punishment.
Keep in mind that turning right on red isn't legal everywhere. For example, Nebraska allows all right turns on red — unless there's a sign prohibiting it. But in New York City, you can't turn right on red — unless a sign says you can.
Don't be caught by surprise. Get a refresher of driver's ed classes online or by reading your state's driver's manual.
Traffic Cameras at Intersections
You can be caught running a red light even if no law enforcement is around. That's because cities across the country have installed thousands of traffic cameras. These motion-activated devices capture a picture of the license plate, which is used to track down the driver and mail them a fine.
Currently, 24 states have traffic camera programs. Cities often disclose the location of the cameras. For example, the city of Chicago publishes a map of traffic cameras. But some intersections in other parts of the country remain unmarked.
What Happens If I Run a Red Light?
Here is what you can expect to happen if you run a red light.
Racking Up Driving Points
If your state has a driver's license points system, you're almost guaranteed to rack up some points. How many will depend on where you live. In Nebraska, you'd get 1 point added to your record. In Alaska, you'd get 4 points.
Paying Fines
Running a red light comes with fines that can range from $60 in Alabama to $200 in Hawaii. And that's not including court costs and other processing fees.
Auto Insurance Price Hikes
As if all that weren't enough, often auto insurance rates go up after drivers break red light laws. If the violation goes on your driving record, chances are your insurer will know about it.
Beat Your Red Light Ticket with Defensive Driving
Running a red light isn't good — we know you know that. But don't let that one mistake stay on your driving record for years. Fortunately, most states give you the chance to move on by completing a defensive driving course. What's more, you can take classes fully online at your own pace with I Drive Safely. Once you're done, you'll have a clean slate to be more careful about yellow and red lights.
Updated 04/03/2023
