تعریف و معنای "[jump] the [light]"

What is the origin of the idiom "jump the light" and when to use it?

The idiom "jump the light" originated from the context of traffic signals and traffic laws. It is derived from the action of physically "jumping" or disregarding a traffic light, specifically when it changes from red to green. The phrase is used to describe situations where individuals or vehicles disregard the red signal at a traffic light and proceed through the intersection without stopping. It can be found in conversations about traffic accidents, traffic law enforcement, or discussions on the importance of obeying traffic signals.