Failure to Obey Traffic Signal, Running Red Light: NJSA 39:4-81

Running a red light or failure to observe a traffic signal is a New Jersey traffic offense that can be charged under a number of different Title 39 statutory provisions. If convicted of this traffic offense, the motor vehicle commission (MVC) will assess two (2) points on your license. A fine of up to $200 will be imposed by the sentencing court. In addition, there is the possibility of a fifteen day jail sentence, but this is rarely imposed.

In most traffic signal traffic ticket cases, there are a number of defenses that experienced municipal court defense attorneys will be able to raise. Even if the traffic ticket was issued for good cause, a good NJ motor vehicle violation lawyer will be able to reduce the points and fines that may be imposed. If you have questions regarding your particular traffic offense, please call our Firm for a free consultation. Don’t be caught off guard by the myriad of unforeseen consequences, which could include insurance hikes, surcharges, and a license suspension.

a. The driver of every vehicle, the motorman of every street car and every pedestrian shall obey the instructions of any official traffic control device applicable thereto, placed in accordance with the provisions of this chapter, unless otherwise directed by a traffic or police officer.
b. When, by reason of a power failure or other malfunction, a traffic control signal at an intersection is not illuminated, the driver of a vehicle or street car shall, with respect to that intersection, observe the requirement for a stop intersection, as provided in R.S.39:4-144.
Amended 1951, c.23, s.40; 2004, c.92.