What are the penalties for running a red light or stop sign in North Carolina?

If you receive a traffic ticket for running a red light or stop sign in Charlotte, you may be tempted to handle it on your own and just pay the fine. However, a traffic ticket’s consequences can affect many aspects of your life and may cost you more in the long run if you take this approach rather than retaining an experienced traffic law attorney to help you. Our Charlotte traffic ticket lawyer explains more below.

North Carolina’s Traffic Laws on Red Lights and Stop Signs

Like all states, North Carolina has enacted laws regarding how drivers must drive when approaching a stop sign or stop light. Here are some of the rules that people must follow:

Stopping. When coming to a stop sign or stop light, drivers are required to come to a complete stop at the nearest of the following: entering the crosswalk, reaching a marked stop line, or entering the intersection.
Right-on-Red Rule. Under North Carolina’s Right-on-Red law, drivers are allowed to make a right turn at a red light after stopping if it is permitted. They must first yield the right of way when making the turn.
Left-on-Red Rule. It is illegal to make a left turn at a red light in our state.
Yellow lights. People can get a ticket for running a yellow light in some states. However, in North Carolina, a yellow light is simply a warning that the light will turn red soon. It is legal to be in the intersection when the light is yellow—but not if it has turned red.

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Penalties for Running a Red Light or Stop Sign

Running a red light or stop sign is an infraction in North Carolina. Here are possible penalties you face:

Fine of up to $100
3 points on your driving record
3 points on your insurance record

If you receive 12 or more points in a three-year period, you could have your driver’s license suspended. In addition, points on your insurance may result in your insurance rates increasing for years after you resolve your ticket.

Have You Received a Traffic Citation in Charlotte, NC?

If you received a traffic citation, you need to speak with an experienced traffic ticket attorney as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Charlotte office directly at 980-207-3355 to schedule your free consultation.

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Howard W. Long, II hlong@browninglonglaw.com

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