I have a question about running red lights ...?

Question

When you go through an intersection- and the light is yellow, and all of a sudden when you're in the middle it turns red- is that still running the red light(in California)?

Answer 1

Yes.

The vehicle must clear the intersection completely BEFORE it turns red, or you can be cited for running a red light.  Only one occassion where this is not relevant:

If you are in a left turn lane and enter the intersection on GREEN, then get caught by traffic crossing, and the light finally goes yellow, then red...you are allowed to complete your turn, even if the light has turned red.  AS LONG AS YOU ENTERED the intersection when the light was green.

Regards...

Answer 2

Your vehicle has to be at least half way over the first line dividing the intersection to be legal. If you do not pass this line and still aren't in the intersection before it turns red then it's illegal.

Answer 3

I believe that once you are in the intersection before the light turns red then you should be alright.  Just like when you come to the intersections that have the cameras..........the cameras won't take your picture unless the light turns red and then you cross the line which trips the camera to take your picture.  So to answer your question, if you are in the middle of the intersection when the light turns red, that is not considered running a red light. :)

Answer 4

Credit to Gomanyes for pulling the CA traffic code.  If you have crossed the stop line, you have entered the intersection.  It is illegal to enter an intersection when you've got a red light.  Once you're in the intersection, if the light turns red, you're not breaking that particular law.  Keep in mind, however, you must be able to clear the inersection when you enter it and if you don't, the officer can cite you for that.  He can also cite you for reckless driving which is subjective and up to the officer's discretion.  Easy to fight in court, but I'd prefer to avoid traffic court every chance I get...

Answer 5

if yourlready under thelight and it turns from yellow to red, that does not fall under the running the red light  law.

Answer 6

Yes.

I think, that is how it is everywhere. That is how is it here in Michigan.

Answer 7

You need to be across the line (i.e., already in the intersection) before the light turns red.  As long as you're across the line while it's still yellow, you're good.  

21453.  (a) A driver facing a steady circular red signal alone shall

stop at a marked limit line, but if none, before entering the

crosswalk on the near side of the intersection or, if none, then

before entering the intersection, and shall remain stopped until an

indication to proceed is shown, except as provided in subdivision