DUI Lawyer | Joel Brand, Esq.

VC 21453 – Running a Red Light

California Vehicle Code Section 21453 addresses the legal obligations and restrictions related to red traffic signals. Understanding this statute is crucial for both drivers and legal professionals, especially when interpreting traffic violations and their implications. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of VC 21453, including its provisions, implications for drivers, and the impact of violations under this code section.

Legal Language of VC 21453

The exact text of VC 21453 is as follows:

21453. Circular Red or Red Arrow

(a) A driver facing a circular red signal or a red arrow shall stop at the marked limit line, or, if none, before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection, or, if none, before entering the intersection.

(b) The driver shall remain stopped until an indication to proceed is shown or until a green signal is displayed.

(c) Except as otherwise provided in this section, a driver facing a circular red signal or a red arrow shall not make a right turn or a left turn onto a one-way street unless the driver first comes to a complete stop as required by subdivision (a) and yields to all other traffic and pedestrians.

(d) This section does not apply to a driver who is entering a one-way street or an intersection on a green arrow or to a driver who is lawfully making a U-turn.

Provisions and Requirements

VC 21453 primarily governs the actions of drivers when confronted with red traffic signals. The statute specifies that:

  1. Stopping Requirements: Drivers must come to a complete stop at the marked limit line, before entering the crosswalk, or before entering the intersection if no limit line or crosswalk is present (VC 21453(a)).
  2. Prohibition on Turns: Drivers are prohibited from making a right or left turn at a red light unless they have come to a complete stop and yielded to all traffic and pedestrians (VC 21453(c)).
  3. Exceptions: There are specific exceptions, such as when turning onto a one-way street or making a U-turn under lawful conditions (VC 21453(d)).

Legal Implications

Violations of VC 21453 can lead to various legal consequences, particularly when such violations intersect with other offenses like Driving Under the Influence (DUI). Here are key points to consider:

1. Traffic Violations and Points

A violation of VC 21453 is generally considered an infraction. Infractions typically result in a fine and points on the driver’s record. Accumulating too many points can lead to increased insurance rates and potential license suspension.

2. DUI and Traffic Violations

When a driver is arrested for DUI, any additional traffic violations, including those under VC 21453, can complicate the case. The presence of a red light violation may:

  • Indicate Impairment: Frequent violations of traffic signals may suggest impaired judgment or motor skills, reinforcing the DUI charge.
  • Affect Sentencing: If convicted of DUI, a history of traffic violations, including VC 21453 violations, can influence sentencing, leading to harsher penalties.

3. Defenses Against VC 21453 Violations

Several defenses may apply to VC 21453 violations, including:

  • Incomplete Stop: Demonstrating that the stop was made in a way that still complied with the intent of the law.
  • Legal Turns: Proving that the turn was made under one of the statutory exceptions, such as a lawful U-turn or entering a one-way street.
  • Traffic Signal Malfunctions: Showing that the traffic signal was malfunctioning, which may absolve the driver from liability for failing to comply.

Case Law and Interpretation

Several court cases have provided further interpretation of VC 21453:

  • People v. McDonald (2006): This case clarified that a driver must come to a complete stop before making a turn on red, emphasizing that partial compliance does not satisfy the requirements of VC 21453.
  • People v. Garcia (2009): In this case, the court highlighted the importance of adherence to traffic control devices, reinforcing the notion that violations of VC 21453 could be indicative of more severe driving issues, including impaired driving.

Conclusion

Vehicle Code Section 21453 is a critical component of California’s traffic regulations, governing driver behavior at red lights. Understanding its provisions and the legal implications of violations is essential for navigating traffic laws and addressing potential DUI charges. For drivers, compliance with VC 21453 is not only a matter of legal obligation but also a crucial aspect of road safety. Legal professionals must consider this statute’s impact when dealing with traffic-related cases and DUI defense strategies.