Running a red light may seem like a minor traffic violation, but it can have severe legal and financial consequences.
What happens if you run a red light in Fresno, California? You could face fines, points on your driver’s license, and potential liability for injuries and property damage if the violation leads to an accident.
Whether it’s a momentary lapse in judgment or a deliberate decision to speed through the intersection, the consequences of running a red light can be far-reaching and life-changing.
In this blog, we’ll explore what happens when you run a red light, the legal implications in California, and what steps you can take if you’ve been involved in a red light accident.
Legal Consequences of Running a Red Light in California
In California, running a red light violates California Vehicle Code 21453, which requires drivers to come to a complete stop at a red light. Failing to stop can result in hefty fines, traffic, school, and points on your driving record.
Depending on the circumstances, running a red light could also lead to a red light accident, causing injury, property damage, or worse.
The Dangers of Running Red Lights
Beyond the legal and financial repercussions, running a red light is dangerous. Drivers who disregard red lights risk causing accidents at intersections, putting themselves and others on the road at risk of severe injury or even death.
A 2019 study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) found that red-light running contributed to 28% of all fatal crashes at intersections. The study also found that drivers who run red lights are more likely to be speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol, or not wearing their seat belts.
Fines and Penalties for Running a Red Light
Running a red light is a common traffic violation, but it’s also a dangerous one. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), red light running is a factor in 2,000 deaths and over 660,000 injuries in the United States each year.
If you’re caught running a red light in Fresno, California, you could face a number of consequences, including fines, points on your license, and even a suspended license.
The fine for running a red light in California can range from $100 to over $500, depending on the jurisdiction and whether a traffic camera or an officer caught the violation.
California’s point system also assigns 1 point to your driving record for a red light violation, which could affect your insurance rates. Repeat offenders may face even stiffer penalties, including license suspension.
Fines:
Typically range from $100 to $500+
Points:
1 point on your driving record
Traffic School:
In some cases, you may be eligible to attend traffic school to remove the point from your record, though the fine must still be paid.
Penalties for Running a Red Light in California
| Offense | Fine | Points | Additional Penalties |
| First Offense | $490+ (depending on court fees) | 1 point | None |
| Second Offense (within 1 year) | $500+ | 2 points | None |
| Third Offense (within 1 year) | $1,000+ | 4 points | Possible license suspension |
First Offense: A first-time offender typically faces a fine of $490 (which can increase depending on court fees and assessments) and one point added to their driving record.
Second Offense: A second offense within one year can result in a fine of $500 or more and two points on your license.
Third Offense: A third offense within one year can lead to a fine of $1,000 or more, four points on your license, and a possible suspension.
Red Light Cameras in Fresno
Traffic light cameras have been implemented in many cities, including Fresno, to catch drivers who run red lights. These cameras snap a picture of your vehicle’s license plate if you cross the intersection after the light has turned red. If caught by one of these cameras, you’ll receive a ticket in the mail.
However, Fresno’s red light camera program has been discontinued in some areas. You should still be cautious, as running a red light could lead to severe accidents and penalties regardless of camera enforcement.
What to Expect After Running a Red Light Accident
The legal and financial consequences can be severe if you run a red light and cause an accident. You may be liable for injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. In the case of serious injuries or fatalities, you could also face a wrongful death lawsuit.
At Kuzyk Personal Injury & Car Accidents Lawyers, we’ve helped numerous injured clients in red light accidents. You may be entitled to compensation if you’ve been involved in an accident where someone ran a red light. Learn more about your rights by visiting our Fresno car accident lawyer page.
What Are the Common Causes of Red Light Accidents?
Several factors can contribute to red light accidents, and understanding these can help drivers avoid these dangerous situations. Common causes include:
Distracted Driving:
Drivers on their phones or distracted by other activities may not notice the light has turned red.
Speeding:
Drivers who speed through intersections may need more time to stop when the light turns red.
Impatience:
Some drivers deliberately run red lights due to impatience, believing they can quickly make it through the intersection.
Fatigue:
Tired drivers may react more slowly to changing traffic lights, increasing the likelihood of running a red light.
Regardless of the cause, running a red light can lead to severe legal and physical consequences.
Red Light Accident Settlements and Compensation
If you’ve been injured in a red light accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Red light accident settlements can vary widely depending on the severity of the injuries, the amount of property damage, and whether or not the at-fault driver has insurance.
At Kuzyk Personal Injury & Car Accidents Lawyers, we fight for the maximum compensation for our clients. If you’ve been injured in a red light accident, contact our experienced attorneys to discuss your case. You can learn more by visiting our verdicts and settlements page.
How Do Red Light Cameras Work?
Many people are curious about how red light cameras work. When a vehicle passes through an intersection after the light has turned red, sensors in the road detect the vehicle’s movement and trigger the camera. The camera then takes a picture of the vehicle’s license plate, which is used to issue a ticket.
If you’ve accidentally run a red light and wonder, “Will I get a ticket?” it depends on whether a camera or an officer caught you. In some cases, drivers may run a red light but avoid a ticket if they are not seen by law enforcement.
Steps to Take if You’ve Been Involved in a Red Light Accident
If you’ve been involved in a red light accident, here are the steps you should take to protect yourself:
Ensure Safety:
Make sure everyone involved is safe and call emergency services.
Document the Scene:
Take pictures of the accident, including damage to all vehicles and any injuries.
Get Medical Attention:
Even if you feel fine, seek medical attention to document any injuries that may not be immediately apparent.
Contact a Lawyer:
Contact an experienced Fresno car accident lawyer to discuss your legal options. It’s essential to act quickly to preserve evidence and protect your rights.
At Kuzyk Personal Injury & Car Accidents Lawyers, we can help you navigate the legal process following a red light accident. If you’ve been injured, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
Preventing Red Light Accidents
Avoiding red light accidents requires attentiveness and caution while driving. Here are some tips to help prevent running a red light:
- Stay Focused: Avoid distractions while driving, especially when approaching intersections.
- Observe Speed Limits: Slowing down as you approach an intersection will give you more time to stop.
- Be Patient: Rushing through a red light to save a few seconds isn’t worth the potential consequences.
- Stay Alert at Night: Fatigue can impair your ability to react quickly to traffic signals, so ensure you’re well-rested before driving.
Following these tips can reduce your risk of being involved in a red-light accident.
What to Do If You’ve Received a Red Light Ticket
You can contest the citation if you’ve received a red light ticket. In some cases, attending traffic school or disputing the accuracy of the ticket can help reduce the penalties. Consulting with a traffic attorney can also guide the best course of action.
5 FAQs About Red Light Accidents
1. What are the penalties for running a red light in California?
The penalties for running a red light in California can vary depending on the severity of the offense and the driver’s prior record. However, potential penalties may include:
- Fines
- Points on your driving record
- License suspension or revocation
2. Can I be issued a red light camera ticket even if I didn’t run a red light?
Yes, receiving a red light camera ticket is possible even if you believe you didn’t run a red light. Suppose the camera captures your vehicle entering the intersection after the light has turned red. In that case, you may be issued a ticket.
3. How can I fight a red light camera ticket?
If you believe you were unfairly issued a red light camera ticket, you may have options to contest it. This could involve providing evidence to prove that you did not run the red light or arguing that the camera malfunctioned.
4. Can I be liable for a red light accident if I had a green light?
If you had a green light and were involved in a red light accident, the other driver could be liable. However, the specific circumstances of the accident and the evidence available will determine who is at fault.
5. What should I do if I’m involved in a red light accident?
If you’re involved in a red light accident, it’s essential to take the following steps:
- Seek medical attention: If anyone is injured, call emergency services immediately.
- Gather information: Exchange information with the other driver and any witnesses.
- Report the accident: Contact the police to report the accident and obtain a copy of the police report.
- Document the scene: Take photos of the accident scene, your vehicle, and any damage.
- Contact your insurance company: Notify them about the accident and follow their guidelines.
- Consult a lawyer: An experienced attorney can help protect your rights and seek compensation for your injuries and losses.
Contact Kuzyk Personal Injury & Car Accidents Lawyers for Red Light Accident Representation
Suppose you or a loved one has been involved in a red light accident in Fresno. In that case, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and damages. At Kuzyk Personal Injury & Car Accidents Lawyers, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents can take, and we’re here to help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Visit our contact page to reach our experienced team today and schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.