Red-light running is a serious and deadly issue in Arizona. Unfortunately, our state ranks among the worst in the nation for these types of incidents. According to the Department of Transportation, there were close to 6,000 such collisions in 2024 alone.

Whether you were tired of waiting for a green light on 83rd Avenue and Indian School Road or you were distracted at the intersection of 7th Street and McDowell Road, your choices behind the wheel can cause a crash. Stick with us at Phillips Law Group to find out what happens if you run a red light and cause a car accident in Arizona.

Legal Consequences of Red Light Running in Arizona

Running a red light and causing an accident in Arizona results in serious legal, financial, and administrative consequences. You will likely receive a traffic citation, generally with a $250 fine, in addition to surcharges. If photo radar captures the car accident, the resulting civil citation is typically between $165 and $250.

But that is not where the penalties end. As the at-fault party, you can expect to get two demerit points on your license, too. If you have already accumulated 13 or more points within a 12-month period, the MVD will automatically suspend your license, and your insurance premiums will probably increase significantly.

What If Someone was Hurt or Killed in the Car Accident?

If you hurt someone running a red light, you will likely be found 100 percent liable for the accident, making you responsible for the other party’s damages, from medical bills and property damage to lost wages, pain, and suffering. Even if you have Arizona’s minimum liability insurance ($25,000 bodily injury/person, $50,000 bodily injury/accident, and $15,000 property damage), you may still face a lawsuit to cover the other party’s damages in excess of your policy limits.

If someone is seriously injured or dies when you run a red light and cause an accident, it is highly probable that you will face criminal charges under A.R.S. 28-672. Possible felonies in this circumstance often include reckless driving, vehicular assault, or even manslaughter.

Learn What To Do If You Were Injured by a Red Light Runner

Now that you understand what happens if you run a red light and cause a car accident, reach out to the skilled personal injury attorneys at Phillips Law Group. With nine offices around the state, we are nearby when you need trusted legal advice about how to proceed with a claim.

You may be eligible to recover the damages you sustained in the car accident. With our free, no-obligation case evaluation, you will know right away if our experienced team can help guide you through the claims process and all the way to trial, if necessary.