Running a red light is illegal, but sometimes it might happen unintentionally. What happens if you run a red light? How can you tell if you’re breaking the law or not? What’s the cost of a ticket for running a red light? And how many points does it add to your driving record in Virginia?
What Counts as Running a Red Light?
Going through an intersection is illegal when the traffic light in your direction is solid red. The law states, “Steady red means that traffic must stop and stay stopped while the red light is on unless there is a steady green arrow pointing in a different direction.” There are some exceptions, which we’ll cover in a letter. For the complete traffic light laws, you can check the Virginia code.9
Remember that red lights can be red circles or arrows, and they both mean the same thing: you must stop. If you see a flashing red light, treat it like a stop sign and follow all the rules for stop signs.
What Happens if You Run a Red Light?
If a police officer sees you running a red light, you will face a fine and demerit points on your driving record.
Fines: The fine can be up to $350, usually around $100.
Demerit Points: For a moving violation, you’ll receive 4 points, which will stay on your Virginia DMV record for three years.
These are the standard penalties for cooperating with the officer. However, the penalties could be higher if you argue, resist, or commit multiple violations.
Traffic Cameras: If a traffic camera catches you running a red light, you’ll be fined, not deducted points. The maximum fine in this case is $50.
Suppose you have questions about a ticket you received or believe you need to be ticketed correctly. In that case, Bississo Law, P.C., can help.
Are traffic cameras legal?
Yes, traffic cameras are legal in Virginia as long as they are marked. As of 2023, eleven counties in Virginia use them, and more are likely to join.
Tickets from traffic cameras are treated as civil violations. They won’t impact your driving record, criminal record, or insurance rates. Many cities and counties use them because they have been shown to reduce accidents and fatalities caused by red light violations.
How can I tell if a red-light ticket is confirmed?
If a police officer pulls you over, you can ask to see their identification. The ticket itself will also include the county’s information and a phone number or website where you can verify its authenticity. This process is reliable and designed to ensure your peace of mind.
If the ticket comes from a traffic camera, it will be sent to the address on your DMV record. It will include instructions for paying or contesting the fine. You should never receive a red-light ticket from Virginia via phone or email.
If you need clarification on the ticket’s validity, Bississo Law, P.C. is here to help.
What are the exceptions to running a red light?
In Virginia, there are a few exceptions to the red light rule:
- You can turn right if you come to a complete stop, and it is safe.
- You can turn left from a one-way street onto another one-way street if you come to a complete stop, and it’s safe.
- You can proceed if you are part of a marked funeral procession or parade.
- You can go through if a police officer directs you to.
- You can run the light if it is the safest option and you’re avoiding greater danger.
Do I need a lawyer for a red light ticket?
Many drivers choose to pay for red-light tickets without contesting them. However, there are situations where it might be worth challenging the ticket:
- If one of the exceptions mentioned applies to your case.
- If you received multiple moving violation tickets and want to reduce the overall penalties.
- If you believe you didn’t run the red light.
- If you think you’ve been wrongly fined or ticketed.
Bississo Law, P.C. can assist if you feel mistreated. Call us at (703) 495-3020 to schedule a free consultation. Our experienced traffic lawyer in Arlington, VA, is here to help you understand your options and choose the best course of action.