Running a red light is illegal in all states and a ticket or citation for the infraction or offense may lead to a significant fine, demerit points on a driver’s license or driving record, and increased insurance premiums (upon conviction, guilty plea, or plea of no contest).

Due to limited resources many states use automated red-light cameras—also known as photo enforcement—to take a digital photograph of a vehicle (and its license plate) that violates the red light or traffic signal by entering the intersection and failing to stop after the light has turned red. The use of red-light cameras to issue traffic tickets or citations (mailed to the driver) has been controversial, with claims that it violates Constitutional rights.

Laws vary from state to state and in some states red-light cameras are a permitted enforcement tool; in some states they are prohibited; and in some states they are prohibited unless permitted by a local ordinance (city or town).

In Colorado, running a red light is considered a traffic violation and is illegal under state law. Violators can face fines, points on their driving record, and potentially higher insurance rates. Colorado utilizes automated red-light cameras as an enforcement tool to capture digital photographs of vehicles that run red lights. These cameras are typically installed at intersections with high incidences of traffic violations. When a vehicle is detected running a red light, a ticket is issued to the registered owner of the vehicle. The use of red-light cameras in Colorado has been subject to debate, with some arguing that it infringes on constitutional rights. However, the Colorado state legislature has authorized their use, and various municipalities within the state have implemented red-light camera programs. It is important for drivers to be aware of the locations of these cameras and to adhere to traffic signals to avoid violations.