Running a red light is illegal in all states and a ticket or citation for the infraction or offense may lead to a significant fine, demerit points on a driver’s license or driving record, and increased insurance premiums (upon conviction, guilty plea, or plea of no contest).
Due to limited resources many states use automated red-light cameras—also known as photo enforcement—to take a digital photograph of a vehicle (and its license plate) that violates the red light or traffic signal by entering the intersection and failing to stop after the light has turned red. The use of red-light cameras to issue traffic tickets or citations (mailed to the driver) has been controversial, with claims that it violates Constitutional rights.
Laws vary from state to state and in some states red-light cameras are a permitted enforcement tool; in some states they are prohibited; and in some states they are prohibited unless permitted by a local ordinance (city or town).
In Texas, running a red light is considered a traffic violation and is illegal under state law. Violators may be subject to fines, points on their driving record, and potential increases in insurance rates. Texas permits the use of automated red-light cameras to enforce traffic laws. These cameras capture images of vehicles that enter an intersection after the traffic light has turned red. The registered owner of the vehicle typically receives a citation in the mail. However, the use of red-light cameras has been a contentious issue. In June 2019, Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed House Bill 1631 into law, which prohibits the use of red-light cameras in the state. Some cities had existing contracts for red-light cameras that were allowed to continue until they expired, but no new contracts can be issued, and many cities have since removed their cameras. It's important to note that while the cameras are being phased out, running a red light remains illegal and can be enforced by law enforcement officers through traditional means.
