You’re approaching an intersection. The light turns yellow, then flashes red just as you cross. Did you make it in time, or did you just break the law? Understanding what is considered running a red light in Florida under state law isn’t always as straightforward as it seems. From right turns to red-light cameras, the details matter, and a small mistake could lead to fines, points on your license, or worse.
In this article, we’ll break down how the law defines a red-light violation, what exceptions exist, the penalties involved, and what to do if you receive a ticket.
What the Law Says: Florida Statute §316.075
Under Florida Statute §316.075, a driver must stop at a clearly marked stop line when facing a steady red light. If no stop line is present, the vehicle must stop before entering the crosswalk or, if no crosswalk exists, before entering the intersection. A red-light violation occurs when a driver enters the intersection after the signal has turned red.
A yellow light serves as a warning that the signal is about to turn red. Entering the intersection while the light is yellow is not automatically a violation. However, if a driver could have stopped safely and instead accelerated to beat the red light, that decision may be seen as reckless and could result in a citation. Florida courts evaluate whether the driver acted reasonably under the circumstances.
Turning at red lights is allowed under specific conditions. A driver facing a steady red signal may turn right after coming to a complete stop, as long as the turn is made safely and does not interfere with crossing traffic or pedestrians. Left turns on red are only permitted from a one-way street onto another one-way street, also after a full stop and proper yielding.
To better understand the rules for red-light turns, you can review our article on turning on red in Florida.
What Is Considered Running a Red Light in Florida?
In Florida, running a red light doesn’t always mean driving straight through an intersection after the signal turns red. The law defines several actions that qualify as violations, even if the vehicle never enters the main traffic flow. These infractions often happen in seconds and are commonly caught by law enforcement or red-light cameras.
Some of the most frequent violations include:
- Rolling past the white stop bar when the light is red, even if the driver stops later within the intersection.
- Turning right without making a complete stop at the red light before proceeding, especially when signs require it.
- Entering the intersection while facing a red arrow, which carries the same legal weight as a solid red signal.
- Failing to yield to pedestrians while turning right on red, putting others in danger even if the turn itself was legal.
These actions are all enforceable under Florida traffic law and can lead to fines, points, or further penalties depending on the situation.
How Much Is a Red Light Ticket in Florida?
Many drivers are surprised to learn that the cost of a red-light violation depends on how the ticket is issued and where the violation occurs. So, how much is a red light ticket in Florida?
If a law enforcement officer issues the ticket during a traffic stop, the fine can be up to $262, not including potential court costs or administrative fees. In addition to the fine, this type of violation usually adds 3 points to your driving record.
If the violation is captured by a red-light camera, the penalty is a $158 civil citation. This type of ticket does not add points to your license, but failure to pay on time can result in increased fines and additional consequences, including license suspension or registration holds.
Violations that occur in school zones or result in a crash may lead to higher fines and possibly criminal charges, depending on the severity of the incident.
For a real-world example of how running a red light can lead to a serious crash and significant consequences, read about our T-bone collision case involving failure to yield to a traffic signal.
Does Running a Red Light Add Points in Florida?
Yes, it can. Whether or not points are added to your license depends on how the violation is handled. So, does running a red light add points in Florida?
If you receive a ticket from a law enforcement officer, the violation usually adds 3 points to your driving record. If the violation causes an accident, the penalty increases to 4 points. These points can impact your insurance rates and put your license at risk.
Red-light camera citations are treated differently. These are civil violations and do not add points to your license. However, if you contest a camera citation in court and lose, points may be applied depending on the judge’s ruling.
Florida drivers who accumulate too many points over time may face license suspension. The state uses a tiered system:
- 12 points within 12 months can result in a 30-day suspension
- 18 points within 18 months can lead to a three-month suspension
- 24 points within 36 months may result in a one-year suspension
To learn more about how Florida's point system works and what happens when your license is at risk, visit our page on driver’s license suspension in Florida.
Can You Fight a Red Light Ticket in Florida?
Yes, you can. But success often depends on the details of your case. Can you fight a red light ticket in Florida and win? In many situations, the answer is yes. Especially if you have clear evidence or were following the law under specific conditions.
For example, if you entered the intersection while the light was still yellow or made a legal right turn after coming to a complete stop, you may have a strong defense. Other valid defenses include:
- A traffic signal that was malfunctioning at the time of the violation
- Obstructed or missing signage that made the rules unclear
- Emergency maneuvers where safety required proceeding through the red
If the ticket came from a red-light camera, you may be able to dispute the timing. Many cameras rely on sensors and recorded footage, which can be used to prove that you entered the intersection while the light was still yellow or that your stop was legal.
Whether the ticket was issued by an officer or a camera, it's important to act quickly. Review the details of your citation, gather any evidence such as dashcam footage or witness statements, and consider speaking with a traffic attorney if you're unsure about your options.
Red-Light Cameras vs. Officer-Issued Citations
Florida drivers can receive a red-light ticket in two ways: from a law enforcement officer or through a red-light camera system. While both result in penalties, there are important differences in how each type of citation is handled.
Officer-issued citations are considered moving violations. These tickets typically come with higher fines, court fees, and license points. If the violation leads to an accident or occurs in a high-risk area like a school zone, additional penalties may apply.
Red-light cameras, on the other hand, issue civil citations. These are not considered criminal offenses and do not add points to your driver’s license unless you choose to contest the citation in court and lose. The standard fine for a camera violation is $158. If the fine is not paid on time, it can increase and eventually affect your vehicle registration or insurance rates.
Cameras are triggered when a vehicle crosses the stop line after the light has turned red. They record a short video clip and still images showing the violation. If you're caught, you can expect to receive a citation by mail within about 30 to 60 days of the incident.
What To Do If You Get a Ticket
If you receive a red-light ticket in Florida, you have several options. How you respond can impact your driving record, your insurance, and even your ability to drive.
The first option is to pay the ticket, which is treated as an admission of guilt. This resolves the case but may result in points on your license if the ticket was issued by an officer. Camera citations, while civil, still appear on your record if left unpaid and can affect your registration status.
You also have the option to dispute the ticket. You can request a hearing, present evidence, and argue your case before a judge. If the violation involved a yellow light entry, a legal right turn, or unclear signage, this may be worth pursuing.
Some drivers may be eligible to attend traffic school to avoid points. Florida allows this option once every 12 months, and no more than five times in a lifetime. You must elect this option before paying the fine and meet the state’s eligibility requirements.
Finally, it’s a good idea to consult a traffic defense attorney if you're unsure about the best course of action. An experienced attorney can help you understand your rights, identify possible defenses, and represent you in court if necessary.
Final Word: Don’t Risk the Guesswork
Understanding what is considered running a red light in Florida under state law is the first step to protecting your driving record and avoiding unnecessary fines. From officer-issued citations to red-light camera tickets, the rules are specific, and the consequences can add up quickly. Penalties may include points on your license, steep fines, and even suspension in repeat cases.
The best defense is to drive attentively and always obey traffic signals. When in doubt, stop. It’s safer, and it can save you time, money, and stress.
If you’ve been ticketed or charged with a red-light violation and need help reviewing your case, contact Browning Law Firm. Our team can help you understand your options and protect your rights.