Can You Legally Run a Red Light in Florida? The Answer May Surprise You

Most drivers in Florida know that running a red light is illegal and can result in hefty fines, points on your license, and even increased insurance rates. However, there are certain situations where proceeding through a red light may be legal—or at least justifiable. Understanding Florida’s red light laws is essential to ensure you don’t unknowingly break the law while driving.

What Does Florida Law Say About Red Lights?

Florida law is clear: when approaching a red light, drivers must come to a complete stop before the crosswalk, stop line, or intersection. Failing to do so is considered a traffic violation that can result in a ticket and fines.

However, Florida Statutes §316.075 and §316.0083 outline specific exceptions where a driver may proceed through a red light legally or under certain conditions. These exceptions are limited but can be life-saving in emergencies.

When Is Running a Red Light Legal in Florida?

1. Turning Right on Red (After Stopping)

One of the most well-known exceptions to Florida’s red light laws is the right turn on red rule. If no signs prohibit it, drivers can legally turn right at a red light after coming to a complete stop, provided they yield to pedestrians and oncoming traffic.

Many drivers forget that failing to come to a full stop before turning right on red can still result in a ticket. Simply slowing down or rolling through the light is considered a violation known as a “rolling stop.”

2. Left Turn on Red from a One-Way to Another One-Way

Less commonly known is that Florida allows drivers to turn left on red when turning from a one-way street onto another one-way street—but only after stopping and yielding to other vehicles and pedestrians. This law is not applicable when turning left from a two-way street or at intersections with posted “No Turn on Red” signs.

3. If the Traffic Light Is Malfunctioning

In rare cases where a traffic light is clearly malfunctioning (e.g., stuck on red for an extended period), Florida law allows drivers to proceed cautiously after stopping and ensuring the intersection is clear. This scenario typically applies to rural areas or late at night when traffic lights may not change as expected.

What to Do if a Light Seems Broken:

• Wait a reasonable amount of time to confirm the light is truly malfunctioning.
• If it remains red for an extended period, treat it as a four-way stop.
• Proceed only when it is safe, and be cautious of other drivers who may not recognize the malfunction.

4. Emergency Vehicles and Police Direction

If a police officer or emergency personnel directs you to proceed through a red light, you are legally allowed to do so. Always follow the instructions of law enforcement over standard traffic signals.

Additionally, if an emergency vehicle with sirens and flashing lights is approaching, Florida law requires drivers to move out of the way safely. This may include cautiously proceeding through a red light if necessary to clear the path.

When Is Running a Red Light Illegal?

While the exceptions above exist, Florida strictly enforces red light laws in most situations. The following actions are always illegal and can result in fines, penalties, and potential accidents:

• Blowing through a red light without stopping (except in emergencies or extreme circumstances).
• Ignoring red light cameras—Florida uses automated red light cameras at many intersections, and violations captured by these cameras can result in a ticket.
• Running a red to beat a yellow light—Speeding up to avoid stopping at a red light is a dangerous maneuver that can lead to crashes.

Penalties for Running a Red Light in Florida

If caught running a red light in Florida, the penalties can be severe:

• Red Light Camera Violation: A ticket of $158 with no points added to your license.
• Officer-Issued Citation: A fine of $262 or more, depending on the county, plus three points on your driving record.
• Additional Consequences: Insurance rates may increase significantly after a red-light violation.

Can You Fight a Red Light Ticket in Florida?

If you receive a red light ticket, you may have options to contest it. Possible defenses include:

1. The light was malfunctioning.
2. You were making a legal right or left turn.
3. You had to move to avoid a collision or emergency vehicle.
4. The red-light camera misidentified your vehicle.

To dispute a red light ticket, you can request a hearing and provide evidence such as dashcam footage, witness testimony, or photos.

How to Avoid Red Light Tickets in Florida

• Always come to a full stop at red lights, even when turning right.
• Be aware of red-light camera locations and obey all traffic signals.
• Pay attention to traffic flow and prepare for lights changing from yellow to red.
• If uncertain, always err on the side of caution to avoid potential violations or accidents.

Conclusion

While Florida has strict laws against running red lights, there are certain legal exceptions that allow drivers to proceed under specific circumstances, such as turning right on red, turning left from one-way streets, or dealing with malfunctioning lights. However, outside of these situations, running a red light is illegal and can result in significant fines, points on your license, and safety risks.

If you receive a red light ticket, understanding your legal options can help you fight an unfair charge. Ultimately, the best way to stay safe and avoid penalties is to follow traffic laws, drive cautiously, and always prioritize safety on the road.

Disclaimer – Our editorial team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and eliminate any potential misinformation. We are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity in our content.