Running a Red Light UK (TS10 Offences)

In the UK, a TS10 driving offence is not following traffic light signals, which is known as "running a red light." This rule applies to all drivers, including those in cars, motorbikes, and lorries.

It can lead to fines, penalty points, and higher insurance costs. Whether it's due to distraction, misjudgment, or deliberate action, jumping a red light is illegal and dangerous.

If you're caught running a red light and charged with a TS10 offence, contact our driving offence solicitors today at 0203 959 7755 for expert legal advice.

Table of Contents

What is a TS10 driving offence?

A TS10 driving offence often called 'running a red light,' occurs when a driver does not comply with traffic light signals and does not stop when required.

Running a red light or disregarding road markings at traffic signals is an offence under Section 36(1) of the Road Traffic Act 1988.

How are red light violations detected?

Red light violations are commonly detected using red light cameras. It is an automated system designed to record images or videos of vehicles running red lights.

Traffic Light Cameras

Traffic light cameras use road sensors to catch red light violators. If a vehicle goes through the stop line when the light is red, the camera takes a photo as proof.

Dash Cam Footage

Another way to get caught is through dash cam footage from another car. If someone gives the police footage, it could be used as evidence against you.

Police Witness Evidence

A police officer seeing you break the rule is enough to prosecute. If an officer spots you running a red light, they might stop you and give you a penalty, even without a photo.

Consequences of a TS10 offence

If you're found guilty of a TS10 offence, you could face:

• A fine, which depends on the seriousness of the offence and other factors.
• Three penalty points on your driving licence, lasting three years from the offence date.
• Your car insurance might go up, as insurers see convicted drivers as riskier.

If you've been charged with a TS10 offence and don't know what to do, call our driving offence solicitors now at 0203 959 7755 for legal advice.

Penalty for running a red light in the UK

The penalty for running a red light in the UK is a £100 fine, three penalty points on your licence, and the offence code TS10 added to your driving record.

If the case goes to Court, the fine can be increased, and you may receive higher penalty points or a driving ban depending on the severity of the incident.

If you don't accept a fixed penalty, the court might impose:

• A fine that's 25% to 50% of your net weekly income, up to £1,000. There's a reduction for an early guilty plea.
• Prosecution costs from £85 to £930, depending on your plea.
• A victim surcharge of 40% of the fine.
• Three penalty points on your licence for three years.

What happens if you run a red light in the UK?

 If caught running a red light, you'll get a Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP) within 14 days.

You will also get a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) which usually includes a £100 fine and three penalty points on your driving licence.

What if I didn’t receive a notice within 14 days?

A Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP) must reach the car owner within 14 days of the alleged offence.

If you haven't received a notice within 14 days, you could have a valid reason to challenge the charge, unless you were stopped by the police at the scene.

What happens if I cause an accident by running a red light?

If running a red light causes an accident, you could face a fine, extra penalty points, disqualification, or even prosecution for dangerous or careless driving.

The severity of the penalties depends on the damage caused and any injuries involved.

You could face:

• A higher fine
• More than three penalty points
• A possible driving ban
• Prosecution for careless or dangerous driving

In addition, you could face criminal charges for dangerous or careless driving. If the accident is severe, you could be held accountable for any harm caused.

How many points do you get for running a red light?

Running a red light always gets you three penalty points. These points stay on your record for four years. If you get 12 or more points in three years, you could lose your licence.

How long does a TS10 offence stay on my licence?

A TS10 offence remains on your driving record for four years from the date of the offence but is only active for three years for totting-up purposes.

Can you contest a TS10 offence in court?

Yes, you can challenge a TS10 offence in court if you believe you were wrongly accused or if there were extenuating circumstances, such as faulty traffic signals.

Will a TS10 offence affect your car insurance?

Yes, a TS10 conviction can increase your car insurance premiums, as insurers see driving offences as an increased risk.

Insurance companies often consider drivers with penalty points or a criminal conviction as a higher risk.

Since a TS10 offence involves breaking a traffic signal rule, it may signal to insurers that you're more likely to cause incidents, leading to higher premiums.

What should I do if I get a ticket for running a red light?

If you get a ticket for running a red light, here’s what you should do:

1. Review the Ticket
2. Decide Whether to Accept or Contest:
3. Pay the Fine
4. Consider a Course
5. Seek Legal Advice:
6. Challenge the Ticket
7. Be Aware of Deadlines

Review the Ticket

Check the ticket details like date, time, and location. Also, look at any evidence like photos or videos. Make sure everything is right.

Decide Whether to Accept or Contest

You can either accept the penalty or fight it. If you admit to the offence, you can pay the fine and accept penalty points. If you think the ticket was unfair, you can contest it in court.

Pay the Fine

If you accept the ticket, pay the fine on time. Paying might add penalty points to your licence, which could raise your insurance.

Consider a Course

You might be able to take a driving course. This could stop penalty points from being added to your licence, depending on where you are.

Seek Legal Advice

If you're not sure what to do, get legal advice. Our driving offence solicitors can help you understand your options and guide you.

Challenge the Ticket

If you want to contest the ticket, you'll need to go to court. Prepare your case with evidence like dashcam footage or witness statements.

Be Aware of Deadlines

Don't forget any deadlines for paying the fine or contesting the ticket. Missing them can lead to more penalties or legal trouble.

Acting quickly and knowing your options can help you handle the situation well.

Defences against TS10 charges

TS10 is a "strict liability" offence, which means there are few defences. The main ones are:

1. Showing you didn't run the red light.
2. Proving there was a fault with the traffic light or sign.
3. Proving you were forced to move forward due to an emergency vehicle.

Supporting evidence could be:

• Witness statements
• Reports on traffic light camera accuracy
• Photos or videos (like dash cam footage)

If you wish to contest the fine, you should respond promptly to the Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP) and provide supporting evidence. If the appeal is unsuccessful, you may face higher fines and additional court costs.

If you're found not guilty, you won't face any penalty and might get back your legal costs.

If you think the ticket was unfair or have grounds to challenge it, call our driving offence solicitor at 0203 959 7755 for assistance in challenging it.

When should I contact a solicitor for a TS10 offence?

You should contact a solicitor for a TS10 offence if:

• You have received a Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP)
• You want to contest the offence.
• You have a previous driving record with points.
• You are facing serious consequences, such as an accident.
• You are facing a court summons
• You risk losing your licence due to excessive points
• You are unsure about the legal process.
• You want advice on your options.

Legal representation for TS10 offences

At Moeen & Co. Solicitors, we're experts in defending drivers against TS10 charges. We offer top legal advice and help, whether you're trying to avoid disqualification or disputing penalties in court.

Contact driving offence solicitors

Charged with a TS10 offence for running a red light? Call our motoring and driving offence solicitor in Hayes, London at 0203 959 7755 to challenge it.