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Hanoi Truck: Red Light Violations and Penalties

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08/02/2025

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The old saying “a cheap thing is a poor thing” holds true in many situations, including traffic. Many drivers, in an attempt to save a few seconds or a bit of gas, disregard red lights, rushing forward despite the potential dangers. The lucky ones get away with it, but the unlucky ones face fines, injuries, or even worse. After the horrific collision between a truck and a car at the Xuan Thuy – Giai Phong intersection in Hanoi last May, many shuddered at the sight of the truck “decimating” the car after running a red light. So, what exactly constitutes running a red light? What are the consequences and penalties? Let’s delve into the details with Hanoi Truck!

Decoding Red Light Violations

According to the 2008 Road Traffic Law and Decree 100/2019/ND-CP, running a red light is defined as the act of a driver failing to comply with traffic signals, intentionally proceeding through an intersection when the signal indicates red.

Truck running a red light causing a traffic accident

Red light violations are categorized into three main groups:

1. Running a Red Light:

This is the most common and most serious violation. Drivers recklessly disregard the red light, showing disregard for traffic laws and the safety of themselves and others.

2. Entering a No Stopping or Parking Zone at a Red Light:

Many drivers mistakenly believe that only running a red light is penalized, while stopping in a no stopping or parking zone at a red light is acceptable. This is a grave misconception!

3. Not Stopping at a Yellow Light:

A yellow light signals drivers to prepare to stop. However, some drivers try to “beat the light,” accelerating through the yellow, increasing the risk of accidents.

The Bitter Consequences of Running a Red Light

Running a red light is not just a simple administrative violation; it’s a leading cause of traffic accidents, resulting in injuries and property damage.

No stopping or parking sign

Traffic Accidents: Running a red light leads to loss of speed control, increasing the likelihood of collisions with other vehicles, especially motorcycles and pedestrians.
Safety Risks for Individuals and Society: This act demonstrates a disregard for traffic laws, disrupting traffic order and safety, and negatively impacting the driver’s image and society as a whole.
Heavy Penalties: Drivers who run red lights face fines ranging from 4 to 6 million VND and license suspension from 1 to 3 months for cars and 2 to 4 months for trucks.

Red Light Violation Penalties

Red light violation penalties in 2020 have been updated. According to Decree 100/2019/ND-CP, the current penalties for running a red light are as follows:

Violation	Car	Truck Under 3.5 Tons	Truck Over 3.5 Tons
Running a Red Light	4,000,000 – 6,000,000 VND	6,000,000 – 8,000,000 VND	8,000,000 – 12,000,000 VND
Stopping in a No Stopping/Parking Zone at a Red Light	800,000 – 1,200,000 VND	1,000,000 – 1,500,000 VND	1,200,000 – 2,000,000 VND
Not Stopping at a Yellow Light	1,000,000 – 1,500,000 VND	1,200,000 – 2,000,000 VND	1,600,000 – 2,400,000 VND

In addition to fines, drivers may also face license suspension from 1 to 3 months depending on the severity of the violation.

Prevention is Key: Avoiding Red Light Violations

“Prevention is better than cure.” Instead of worrying about penalties, drivers should keep the following tips in mind to avoid running red lights:

Focus on Driving: Maintain focus, especially when approaching intersections and traffic lights.
Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead to allow for timely reactions in unexpected situations.
Obey Traffic Signals: “Red means stop, green means go, yellow means prepare to stop.”
Plan Your Route: Avoid rush hour and congested roads prone to traffic jams.

Spirituality and Red Lights: Fact or Fiction?

Vietnamese people often value spirituality and believe in superstitions. Stories like the ant driving a car or “omens” while driving are often discussed. Some believe that encountering “bad luck” while driving is a bad omen, requiring extra caution. However, according to psychologist Nguyen Van An in his book “Spirituality & Traffic,” these beliefs are merely psychological self-deception without scientific basis. The most important thing is to obey traffic laws, drive carefully, and avoid violations like running red lights.

Driver focused on safe driving

Conclusion: A Golden Rule for Drivers

Running a red light is a serious traffic violation, endangering oneself and others. Be a civilized road user, obey traffic laws, and contribute to a safe and civilized traffic culture.

For further consultation on trucks, vans, and trucks with capacities of 1, 2, 3.5, and 8 tons, feel free to contact Hanoi Truck at 0968239999, email [email protected], or visit our showroom at TT36 – CN9 Road, Tu Liem Industrial Zone, Phuong Canh Ward, Nam Tu Liem District, Hanoi. Our experienced team is available 24/7.

Hanoi Truck – Your companion on every road!