Tulsa Police Giving No Warning For Red, Yellow Light Violations

Tulsa police are green-lighting a new effort to put the brakes on red light runners.

Police said one of the main causes of collisions in Tulsa happen when distracted or rushed drivers speed through traffic lights.

Tulsa Police Sergeant Stephen Florea has been an officer here for more than 19 years.  

"Usually, you can tell if somebody is going to run a red light before they even do it," said Florea. 

It's more than a job for him, it's a passion. 

"I'm the guy who has to knock on somebody's door at 2 o' clock in the morning and tell 'em, 'I'm sorry, your dad is not coming home.'"

Florea said that's why he's dedicated to stopping tragedies that can be prevented.

"If most people would just take the time to realize the severity of what can happen. In just the blink of an eye your life can change," he said. 

Throughout November, Tulsa police are focusing their efforts on traffic light enforcement.

Officers are watching for people who hit the gas pedal instead of their brakes at red and yellow lights.

"A lot of people aren't aware it's actually against the law to enter an intersection on a yellow light unless you are certain you can completely clear that intersection before the light turns red," Florea said. 

Florea said most people who pass through red or yellow lights are in too much of a hurry. He recommends drivers slow down, and be cautious of drivers who might not be paying attention to the road. 

"I would much rather see you sitting there on the side of the road crying because I've just given you a ticket than have to be sitting in your living room at two in the morning," he said. 

Driving through a red light will cost you $200, a yellow light will cost you $150 and they said no one's getting just a warning.