VC 21453 (a) A driver facing a steady circular red signal alone shall stop at a marked limit line, but if none, before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection or, if none, then before entering the intersection, and shall remain stopped until an indication to proceed is shown, except as provided in subdivision (b).

VC 21453 (c) A driver facing a steady red arrow signal shall not enter the intersection to make the movement indicated by the arrow and, unless entering the intersection to make a movement permitted by another signal, shall stop at a clearly marked limit line, but if none, before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection, or if none, then before entering the intersection, and shall remain stopped until an indication permitting movement is shown.

Red light tickets for violating California Vehicle Code 21453 (a) and (c) are one of the most common tickets issued by local police officers and sheriffs.

These also include Red Light Camera Tickets. 

The fine amount for CVC 21453 (a) and (c) is $490.00

In California VC 21453 carries one DMV point which stays on your driving record for 3 years.  Each DMV point costs approximately $750 in increased insurance premiums over 3 years plus the cost of the fine amount, which is $490.

The total cost if you just pay your ticket for VC 21453 could be $1240 or more.

This is why you should NOT simply pay the fine for VC 21453 and plead guilty.