Can you turn right at a Y-shaped intersection with a red light?
2 Answers
You can turn right when there is no explicit arrow indication at the red light. At such intersections, you can proceed to turn right directly. If the red light has a clear arrow indication, then you must obey the traffic signal when turning right at such intersections. In urban roads, most intersections allow right turns on red, but some special intersections require compliance with traffic signals for right turns, usually indicated by signs to alert drivers. When driving on general urban roads, as long as you do not speed, run red lights, smoke while driving, make phone calls, and fasten your seatbelt, you will not incur any traffic violations. Laws and Regulations: According to the "Road Traffic Safety Law," the regulations on traffic signals are as follows: Article 25, Paragraph 2 stipulates that traffic signals include traffic lights, traffic signs, traffic markings, and the directions of traffic police. Article 26 states that traffic lights consist of red, green, and yellow lights. A red light indicates prohibition of passage, a green light indicates permission to pass, and a yellow light serves as a warning. Article 38 requires that vehicles and pedestrians shall proceed according to traffic signals; when directed by traffic police on-site, they shall follow the directions of the traffic police; on roads without traffic signals, they shall proceed under the principle of ensuring safety and smooth traffic. Article 62 specifies that pedestrians crossing intersections or roads shall use crosswalks or pedestrian facilities; when crossing at signalized crosswalks, they shall follow the traffic signals; when crossing at intersections without traffic signals or crosswalks, or when crossing roads without pedestrian facilities, they shall proceed after confirming safety. Article 89 states that pedestrians, passengers, or non-motorized vehicle drivers who violate road traffic safety laws and regulations regarding road passage shall be given a warning or fined between 5 and 50 yuan; non-motorized vehicle drivers who refuse to accept the fine may have their vehicles impounded. Driving a motor vehicle in violation of traffic signals will result in a 6-point penalty. Right-Turn Precautions: Observe oncoming straight-moving vehicles: When turning right, you must check both the right and left sides for vehicle conditions. Observe opposing left-turning vehicles: In addition to watching for straight-moving vehicles, you should also check for any opposing left-turning vehicles. When turning right, pay attention to vehicles on the left, whether they are turning left or going straight, and let them pass first. Observe pedestrians: When turning right, besides the crosswalk before the intersection, there may also be crosswalks at the corner. Be sure to check for pedestrians on these crosswalks.
I remember learning a practical tip after driving for many years: can you turn right at a Y-shaped intersection when the light is red? In most cases, yes, because traffic rules allow right turns on red unless there's a prohibition sign, such as a red arrow light or a sign that says 'No Right Turn on Red.' A Y-shaped intersection might look a bit unusual, but the rules are similar to a regular crossroad—when turning right, just ensure safety by watching for oncoming straight-moving vehicles and pedestrians. I often drive in the city and approach such intersections by slowing down first to check the light, then making a gradual turn. Sometimes, at Y-shaped intersections in suburban areas without traffic signals, right turns are completely unaffected. The key is not to panic, assess the surroundings clearly, and minimize the risk of collisions. In summary, the rules permit right turns, but always prioritize safety—don’t rush, as accidents can easily happen, especially during rain or snow when visibility is low and extra caution is needed.
