Traffic lights can be slow, especially during rush-hour, and cutting through that gas station to avoid the light seems so easy and tempting. But check your local rules before you do. A violation for avoiding a traffic signal—sometimes called "rat-running"—can result in fines, license points, and even possible jail time. This article covers laws that prohibit rat running and possible penalties for a violation.
A violation for avoiding a traffic control device generally entails crossing public or private property in an effort to avoid a traffic signal. The laws of each state are a little different though. For example, Texas prohibits driving through a parking lot (public or private) without stopping, whereas Illinois's law applies only to crossing private property. Despite the differences, rat-running laws are very common in many states and cities.
Each state defines and penalizes rat-running differently. Here are some, but not all, of the states that criminalize traffic signal avoidance.
Additionally, many cities have municipal ordinances prohibiting traffic signal avoidance. For example, Stillwater, Oklahoma has a law that makes it illegal to rat-run through driveways, drive-in restaurants, motels, gasoline-filling stations, or commercial establishments for the purposes of avoiding any traffic control device or signal.
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