Is Jail Time Associated With a Red Light Traffic Violation?

The court can only impose jail time for criminal violations. In most jurisdictions a typical red light violation would get classified as a traffic infraction and only subject you to a potential fine, points on your license, and potentially higher insurance rates. Under some circumstances, however, a red light violation could rise to the level of a criminal offense.

Fleeing an Officer

If a person is trying to flee a crime scene or is actively running from a police officer, what may feel like a red light violation could become a charge of eluding an officer or interfering with a public official. Depending on the jurisdiction, these charges could potentially carry jail time.

Reckless Driving

If a person goes through a red light at high speed, or after opposing traffic’s light had clearly turned green and cars started to move, the act of running a red light could be charged as reckless driving. Reckless driving is driving in clear disregard to the safety of other people, and it also carries potential jail time.

Reckless Endangerment

Some jurisdictions will charge a person with reckless endangerment if the person runs a red light when there is a child in the car. As in other exceptional circumstances the charge of reckless endangerment can carry jail time.

Speak to a Lawyer

So many things can make what appears to be a typical traffic ticket into something much more serious, that you should always consult with an attorney if you get a traffic light ticket. An attorney might be able to get charges reduced, or negotiate a better sentence. Even in cases where jail time is not associated with the ticket, an attorney who deals with traffic laws may find as issue with the ticket that could get it dismissed, or reduced to a less costly violation.

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