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 Hawaii, 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 potential increases in insurance rates. Hawaii permits the use of automated red-light cameras to enforce traffic laws. These cameras capture images of vehicles that enter an intersection after the traffic light has turned red. The registered owner of the vehicle typically receives a citation in the mail. The use of red-light cameras in Hawaii has been legally upheld, and they are utilized as a tool to promote road safety and reduce traffic violations. However, as with many jurisdictions, the use of these cameras can be contentious, with some arguing that they may infringe on certain constitutional rights. It is important for drivers in Hawaii to be aware of the locations of red-light cameras and to adhere to traffic signals to avoid violations.