Can you turn right at a circular red light?
2 Answers
Circular red lights allow right turns when they do not affect other vehicles or pedestrians. Straight-through intersection traffic signals: Straight-through intersections use only one set of traffic lights. When the red light is on, straight-through traffic stops; when the green light is on, straight-through traffic proceeds. For intersections where U-turns are permitted, U-turns can be made at either red or green lights. However, some locations may specifically mark "U-turn on red" for safety reasons, in which case U-turns can only be made when the red light is on. It is important to note that if you see a "No U-turn" sign before an intersection, U-turns are prohibited at that intersection, and you must be careful not to violate traffic regulations. Crossroad traffic signals: Crossroads are equipped with at least two sets of traffic lights, usually arrow-type. Vehicles making U-turns do not depend on traffic light conditions (but if the straight-through lane requires crossing the stop line, then the left-turn signal must be followed), and must ensure safety when turning left; straight-through vehicles proceed according to traffic lights (stop at red, go at green); right-turning vehicles do not depend on traffic lights but must yield to straight-through vehicles.
I've been driving for almost ten years, and I often encounter situations with round traffic lights where turning right on red is allowed. Generally speaking, as long as there isn't a 'No Right Turn on Red' sign at the intersection, it's fine to make the turn. But you have to slow down, especially watching out for pedestrians on the crosswalk—those electric bike riders darting out suddenly from the side are the most dangerous. I remember last year at an intersection downtown, I almost hit a food delivery guy who ran a red light because I turned too quickly. Also, you need to pay attention to the lanes—some intersections have dedicated right-turn lanes with arrow signals, and you must not move when that red arrow is lit. In short, the rules are rigid, but driving requires flexibility—safety always comes first.
