CHP officers will be looking for red light runners this week

CHP officers will be extra focused this week on drivers who fail to properly stop at red lights as this is National Stop on Red Week. which runs from August 3–9, 2025. This annual national event is sponsored by the National Coalition for Safer Roads.

“Stop on Red Week” is an annual campaign focused on promoting safety at intersections and reducing red-light running incidents. It typically occurs in early August. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is a key participant, raising awareness and enforcing traffic laws related to red lights.

Here’s what you can do:

• Always come to a complete stop at red lights, including before turning right.
• Watch for pedestrians and cyclists who depend on you to obey signals.

In the United States, vehicle accidents caused by drivers running red lights are a significant safety concern:

• Fatalities: In 2023, 1,086 people were killed in crashes involving red light running. About half of these victims were pedestrians, bicyclists, or occupants of other vehicles hit by the red light runners.
• Injuries: That same year, over 136,000 people were injured in such crashes.
• Crash Volume: It’s estimated that hundreds of thousands of crashes occur annually due to red light violations. For example, in 2019, 143,000 people were seriously injured in red-light-related crashes.
• Driver Behavior: Despite widespread awareness of the danger, a 2023 AAA survey found that 27% of drivers admitted to running a red light in the past 30 days, even though 81% considered it very or extremely dangerous.
• Urban Impact: Red-light running is considered the leading cause of urban crashes in the U.S.

Penalties for Running Red Lights or Stop Signs in California (2025)

1. Fines
   • Base fine: $35–$100
   • Total cost after fees: $400–$500+
   • Red light camera tickets: Often exceed $500
2. Points on Driving Record
   • 1 point per violation
   • Points stay on record for 3 years
   • Too many points can lead to license suspension
3. Traffic School
   • May be eligible to attend
   • Prevents point from affecting insurance
   • Does not waive the fine
4. Insurance Impact
   • Premiums may increase 20–30%
   • Effects can last for several years
5. Legal Defenses
   • Signal malfunction
   • Emergency situations
   • Lack of clear evidence
6. Recent Law Updates (2025)
   • Illegal to park within 20 feet of crosswalks (AB 413)
   • Drivers must fully stop for pedestrians in any part of a crosswalk

Impact on Auto Insurance After a Red Light or Stop Sign Violation (California, 2025)

1. Premium Increase
   • A single violation can raise your insurance rates by 20–30%.
   • Drivers with prior infractions may see even higher increases.
2. 2025 Law Changes
   • California raised minimum liability coverage limits:
     • Bodily injury: $30,000 per person
     • $60,000 per accident
     • Property damage: $15,000
   • These changes have led to premium hikes of up to 54% for minimum coverage policies.
3. Why Rates Are Rising
   • More frequent and severe accidents
   • Higher vehicle repair costs
   • Increased climate-related risks (e.g., wildfires, floods)
   • Rising vehicle theft rates
4. Ways to Reduce the Impact
   • Shop around for better rates
   • Ask for discounts (safe driver, bundling, low mileage)
   • Increase your deductible
   • Use telematics (usage-based insurance)
   • Take a defensive driving course