Disobeying Flashing Red Signal
Failing to come to a complete stop and yield before proceeding through an intersection controlled by a flashing red light.
This guide is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. TicketClear is a self-help document preparation service — we are not attorneys and do not represent clients. Review all prepared documents carefully before submitting. Fine amounts are estimates and vary by county and surcharge schedule.
What is a Disobeying Flashing Red Signal ticket?
This violation occurs when a driver fails to treat a flashing red traffic signal as a stop sign. At a flashing red light, you must come to a complete stop before the intersection and yield to any traffic or pedestrians before proceeding.
This ticket typically costs between $238 and $490 after court fees are added. You'll also receive 1 point on your DMV record, which can increase your insurance rates by 15-25% for up to three years.
One point on your record typically increases insurance premiums by 15-25% annually. Over three years, this can add $500 to $1,500 or more to your insurance costs depending on your carrier and driving history.
What the Law Says
What the Officer Must Prove
- 1A flashing red signal was displayed
- 2You failed to stop before entering the intersection
- 3The officer had a clear view of your vehicle's stopping position
How Drivers Get This Ticket
A driver approaches a flashing red light at an empty intersection at 2 AM and rolls through at 5 mph without fully stopping.
Cited for CVC 21457(a) because a complete stop is required regardless of traffic present.
A driver stops at a flashing red signal but proceeds before an approaching vehicle clears the intersection.
Cited for failing to yield right-of-way after stopping at the flashing red signal.
A driver unfamiliar with the area doesn't notice the flashing red signal is malfunctioning and appears to be flashing yellow from their angle.
May have grounds for dismissal if signal malfunction can be documented or proven.
Common Defenses for Disobeying Flashing Red Signal
These are the defense arguments that appear most often in successful Trial by Written Declarations for this violation.
Complete stop was made
CVC 21457(a) requires treating a flashing red signal like a stop sign. If you came to a complete stop and the intersection was clear before proceeding, you complied with the statute. Apply the same analysis as a stop sign citation — challenge the officer's observation angle and ability to identify a complete stop.
Signal was malfunctioning or unclear
If the signal's flash cycle was irregular or the signal color was ambiguous, document this.
How to Address This in Your Declaration
- ✓Dashcam footage showing you made a complete stop
- ✓Photos of obstructed signal visibility (trees, signs, equipment)
- ✓Documentation of signal malfunction from the city or traffic department
- ✓Witness statements from passengers or other drivers
- ✓Photos showing poor signal positioning or maintenance
- ✓GPS data showing your vehicle stopped at the intersection
⚠️ What NOT to Do
- ✗Admitting you 'slowed down but didn't fully stop' in your written declaration
- ✗Arguing the intersection was empty so stopping wasn't necessary
- ✗Failing to return to the scene to photograph signal visibility issues
- ✗Missing your court deadline or failing to respond to the ticket
- ✗Paying the fine without considering traffic school to mask the point
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Frequently Asked Questions About Disobeying Flashing Red Signal
What's the difference between a flashing red light and a regular red light?▼
A flashing red light must be treated as a stop sign — you stop, yield to traffic and pedestrians, then proceed when safe. A solid red light requires you to stop and wait until it turns green. The penalties are similar, but the required driver actions differ.
Can I get this ticket if I stopped but then pulled forward before it was safe?▼
Yes. CVC 21457(a) requires both a complete stop AND yielding to traffic with the right-of-way. If you stopped but failed to yield properly, you can still be cited under this section.
What if the flashing red light had just started malfunctioning?▼
Signal malfunction is a valid defense. Request maintenance records from the city's traffic department through a public records request to document when the signal was last inspected or if any malfunctions were reported around your citation date.
Is this violation the same as running a stop sign?▼
Very similar. Both require a complete stop and yielding before proceeding. However, CVC 21457(a) specifically applies to flashing red signals, while CVC 22450 covers stop signs. The points and fines are comparable.
Will this ticket affect my commercial driver's license (CDL)?▼
Yes, this violation adds points to your record and will appear on your CDL. Commercial drivers face stricter consequences, and traffic school may not mask the point for CDL holders. Consult with your employer or a legal professional about CDL-specific impacts.
Traffic School Option
Most drivers cited for CVC 21457(a) are eligible for traffic school if they haven't attended in the past 18 months. Completing traffic school keeps the point off your public driving record and prevents insurance increases.
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This guide is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. TicketClear is a self-help document preparation service — we are not attorneys and do not represent clients. Review all prepared documents carefully before submitting. Fine amounts are estimates and vary by county and surcharge schedule.