Running a red light can have serious legal and safety consequences, and the specifics depend on where you are. Here’s a concise overview to help you understand what typically happens. Direct answer

• Legally, you can face fines, penalty points on your license, and potentially higher insurance costs. In many places the minimum acts like a fixed penalty (for example, a fine plus points) and a Notice of Intended Prosecution may be issued if cameras or police are involved.
• Safety-wise, running a red light greatly increases the risk of crashes, injuries, and fatalities, affecting you and other road users including pedestrians and cyclists.
• In practice, consequences can escalate if the violation leads to an accident, involves a pedestrian or motorway scene, or if you have prior offences or aggravated circumstances.

Key factors that drive the outcome

• Location: Different countries and regions have their own penalties, such as specific fines, point systems, or mandatory court appearances.
• Method of detection: Traffic light cameras, police interception, or eyewitness reports can all trigger penalties.
• Severity: If the violation results in injury or damage, consequences can be more severe, including higher fines, license suspensions, or criminal charges.

What to do if you’re concerned

• If you’ve been charged: Review the notice carefully, gather any evidence (photos, timing, road conditions), and consider legal advice if the penalty seems excessive or there are extenuating circumstances.
• If you’re currently driving: Stop safely at the next opportunity and proceed only when it’s legal and safe to do so. Do not attempt to race through changing lights to “beat” penalties.

If you’d like, specify your country or region and I can give you a more precise breakdown of typical penalties and procedures there.