Traffic & Transit

Napa Police To Drivers: Don’t Cut Corners On Red Light Stops

Ever turn into a parking lot to avoid stopping at a red light? Don't do it in Napa or you could soon face a fine.

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Napa city officials passed a new law to stop motorists they say are trying to avoid stopping at red lights installed at intersections in the city by turning into lots like the one at Solano and Redwood avenues.
Napa city officials passed a new law to stop motorists they say are trying to avoid stopping at red lights installed at intersections in the city by turning into lots like the one at Solano and Redwood avenues. (Scott Anderson/Patch)

NAPA, CA — A Napa ordinance now makes it illegal to avoid stopping at red lights and stop signs by dipping into parking lots.

The move approved by the Napa City Council follows the installation of automated red-light enforcement cameras earlier this year, including at the intersection of Redwood Road and Solano Avenue.

Motorists approaching the red lights began diverting their path to avoid them, according to city officials, turning into parking lots or "private property."

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Motorists who violate the law will be fined $100 the first time, and up to $500 for repeat violations.

Enforcement starts Sept. 1.

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The following intersections are red-light camera spots:

  • Lincoln Avenue and Soscol Avenue
  • Redwood Road and Solano Avenue
  • Highway 29 and Trower Avenue
  • Soscol Avenue (Highway 221) and Imola Avenue (Highway 121)

The first camera was activated on Jan. 31.

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