Red light violations are among the most dangerous traffic offenses and can cause serious accidents. But which road users most often disregard red traffic lights? A current analysis shows significant differences between the individual groups.
Who drives most often over red?
According to an examination by the ADAC, drivers are particularly often responsible for red light violations. In stressful traffic situations or in tight traffic, the red light is often overlooked or deliberately ignored. The test shows that many violations do not occur from purpose, but out of carelessness.
Cyclists also tend to disregard red traffic lights. This often happens out of convenience or because they feel less bound to the same traffic rules as drivers. The red light is ignored, especially on little -traveled intersections or in poorly visible traffic lights.
E-scooter drivers are also increasingly noticeable by red light violations. Since the increasing spread of these vehicles, there has been a significant increase in violations, especially in large cities. The high mobility and the possibility of moving through traffic quickly tempt many drivers to ignore red traffic lights. Another problem is the lack of recording of these violations. Not all traffic lights are equipped with a camera, so that many violations of the rules remain unnoticed.
Penalties to run over a red traffic light
Depending on the duration of the red phase, the catalog of fines differentiates between a simple and a qualified red light violation. According to the catalog of fines, the fine for a simple red light violation is 90 euros if the traffic light was less than a second. In addition, a point is entered in Flensburg. If there is a risk to other road users, the fine increases to 200 euros, combined with two points and a one -month driving ban.
A qualified red light violation is when the traffic light has been red for more than a second. In this case, the fine is at least 200 euros, there are two points in Flensburg and a one -month driving ban. If a hazard or an accident has been caused, the punishment can increase to up to 360 euros. Red light violations are also associated with sanctions for cyclists and e-scooter drivers. The fines range between 60 and 180 euros, and a point is also entered in Flensburg. In severe cases, even a driving ban for motorized vehicles can be imposed. Violations of pedestrian crossings or crossings with trams are particularly dangerous, where, according to ADAC, there are particularly critical situations.
Regional differences in red light violations
According to an investigation by Allianz Direct, there are significant regional differences in traffic violations. Most violations are registered in North Rhine-Westphalia, while Brandenburg has the highest proportion of red light violations per 1,000 drivers. The red light is often ignored above average in the cities of Berlin and Hamburg. This could be due to the dense city traffic and the frequent stopping at traffic lights. In large cities in particular, red light violations are among the most common causes of accidents. Traffic planners are therefore increasingly relying on traffic lights to reduce the number of violations and increase safety in road traffic.
Editor finance.net