If you’ve driven through Redding recently and seen a bright flash from a pole above the intersection, your stomach probably dropped. You might be wondering: Was that for me?
New data reveals where Redding police are issuing the most red light camera tickets. See which intersections topped the list (Hilltop & Cypress is #1) and how much a violation could cost you.
Thanks to newly obtained public records, we now have a clear look at exactly where Redding drivers are running red lights the most. And if you regularly commute through the city’s busiest corridors, you’ll want to pay close attention.
The #1 Red Light Hotspot: Hilltop Drive & East Cypress Avenue
According to records obtained via a public records request, Redding has issued more than 9,200 red light camera tickets since the beginning of the year.
The intersection of Hilltop Drive and East Cypress Avenue stands far above the rest. This single location accounts for over 3,200 of those citations.
Here is the breakdown of violations at Hilltop & Cypress:
· Right Turns: 2,000+ citations
· Left Turns: 470+ citations
· Going Straight: 450+ citations
A right turn on red is legal in California—if you come to a complete stop behind the limit line. Rolling through at 5 MPH is what triggers that camera.
The Runner-Ups: Other Intersections to Watch
While Hilltop & Cypress takes the crown, several other Redding intersections are seeing triple-digit violation rates.
2. Churn Creek Road & Cypress Avenue
Coming in second with over 1,000 violations. Unlike the top spot, this location sees most of its tickets from left turns.
· Left Turns: 900+
· Right Turns: 300+
· Straight Through: 200+
3. Hartnell Avenue & Churn Creek Road
This intersection issued over 1,300 tickets, continuing a trend seen at major intersections in Redding.
· Right Turns: Nearly 1,000
· Straight Through: 200+
· Left Turns: 100+
4. Pine Street & Tehama Street (Downtown)
Don’t think downtown is safe just because speeds are lower. This location recorded over 1,000 violations.
· Right Turns: 900+
· Straight Through: 200+
· Left Turns: Only 7
When Are Drivers Running Red Lights?
The data didn’t just look at location—it looked at timing. There is a clear trend based on the day of the week.
· Worst Day to Drive (Most Tickets): Friday – Over 1,600 tickets issued. (Pay extra attention on your way to weekend errands.)
· Best Day to Drive (Fewest Tickets): Sunday – Just over 900 tickets.
How Much Will This Cost You?
Beyond the points on your license, red light tickets in California are expensive.
According to the California court system, a red light camera ticket in Redding will typically cost drivers roughly $490 to $600 after all fines, fees, and assessments are added.
How to Avoid Becoming a Statistic
You don't need to remove the memory card from your car. You just need to adjust your habits.
1. Stop before the line. Not halfway into the crosswalk. The camera is triggered by induction loops in the pavement just behind the limit line.
2. Right on red means STOP. Treat it like a stop sign. Count to three before you roll.
3. Watch the pedestrian countdown. If the hand is flashing, prepare to stop. Do not "speed up to beat it."
Stay Safe Out There
With nearly 10,000 tickets issued already this year, Redding traffic authorities are clearly enforcing these intersections aggressively.
Drive safely, Redding. Your wallet will thank you.
