Stop Running Reds!
Red light violations pose a significant safety threat on Jersey’s roads. This issue is particularly prevalent in several ‘hot spots,’ especially along the ring road around St. Helier, where numerous collisions have occurred due to drivers and riders ignoring traffic signals.
This page features the legal implications of running red lights and their impact on road users.
Jersey’s Traffic Light Sequence
Traffic lights are a crucial component of road safety and traffic management, providing clear signals that guide drivers and pedestrians through intersections and various road scenarios. Each light conveys a specific meaning, and understanding these signals is essential for ensuring smooth traffic flow and the safety of all road users. For detailed guidance on traffic lights and other road signals, visit our Signs, Lights, and Road Markings webpage.
The Legal Implications
Running a red light is a serious violation of road safety laws and carries severe consequences. This act is not merely a minor infraction; it poses significant risks to the safety of all road users.
When a driver runs a red light, they are violating Article 74 of the Road Traffic (Jersey) Law 1956, which relates to traffic lights and other road signs.
Consequences for Offenders:
- Fine: Up to £1,000
- Ban: Up to 6 months
- Retake Test after Ban: In serious cases offenders may be required to retake their driving test after the ban
Impact on Road Users
Pedestrians at Risk
Pedestrians rely on traffic signals to indicate safe crossing times. However, when vehicles run red lights, they significantly increase the risk of crossing collisions, which can result in serious injuries or fatalities. This potential risk alone should be sufficient reason to remain patient when waiting in traffic, as saving a few seconds by running a red light could lead to devastating consequences.
Other Road Users Endangered
Cyclists are particularly vulnerable in collision situations due to their lack of physical protection, especially when involved in collisions with motorised vehicles. Ignoring red lights can lead to sudden and dangerous collisions, putting cyclists’ safety at significant risk.
Motorists are also endangered by this reckless behaviour, facing the potential for substantial vehicle damage and serious injuries. Such actions not only threaten lives but also increase traffic congestion and delays, affecting all road users, including those not directly involved.
Pedestrians at Risk
Pedestrians rely on traffic signals to indicate safe crossing times. However, when vehicles run red lights, they significantly increase the risk of crossing collisions, which can result in serious injuries or fatalities. This potential risk alone should be sufficient reason to remain patient when waiting in traffic, as saving a few seconds by running a red light could lead to devastating consequences.
Other Road Users Endangered
Cyclists are particularly vulnerable in collision situations due to their lack of physical protection, especially when involved in collisions with motorised vehicles. Ignoring red lights can lead to sudden and dangerous collisions, putting cyclists’ safety at significant risk.
Motorists are also endangered by this reckless behaviour, facing the potential for substantial vehicle damage and serious injuries. Such actions not only threaten lives but also increase traffic congestion and delays, affecting all road users, including those not directly involved.