Can You Turn Right on a Red Light Without an Arrow?
2 Answers
Whether you can turn right on a red light without an arrow depends on whether there is a no-right-turn sign and whether there is a right-turn lane. The details are as follows: One scenario is that motor vehicles cannot turn right at intersections where right turns are prohibited. There is usually a sign near the traffic light indicating this. Another scenario is that if there is no right-turn lane, you cannot turn right either. The right-turn lane indicator is usually marked above or below the lane. It is important to note that there is a prerequisite for turning right: it should not affect the normal flow of traffic, and pedestrians on the crosswalk must be given way. Laws and Regulations: According to the "Road Traffic Safety Law," the regulations on traffic lights are as follows: Article 25, Paragraph 2 states that traffic signals include traffic lights, traffic signs, traffic markings, and the direction 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 states that vehicles and pedestrians shall pass according to traffic signals; when there is on-site command by traffic police, they shall pass according to the command of the traffic police; on roads without traffic signals, they shall pass under the principle of ensuring safety and smooth traffic. Article 62 states that pedestrians crossing intersections or roads shall use crosswalks or pedestrian facilities; when crossing signalized crosswalks, they shall follow the traffic light signals; when crossing intersections without traffic signals or crosswalks, or crossing roads without pedestrian facilities, they shall cross after confirming safety. Article 89 states that pedestrians, passengers, and non-motor 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-motor vehicle drivers who refuse to accept the fine may have their non-motor vehicles impounded. According to the "Regulations on the Application and Use of Motor Vehicle Driving Licenses" (Ministry of Public Security Order No. 123), driving a motor vehicle in violation of traffic light signals will result in a 6-point penalty. Precautions for Right Turns: Pay attention to oncoming straight vehicles: When making a right turn, observe both the right and left sides for vehicle conditions. Pay attention to oncoming left-turning vehicles: In addition to observing straight-moving vehicles, also check for oncoming left-turning vehicles. When turning right, observe vehicles on the left and yield to them, whether they are turning left or going straight. Pay attention to pedestrians: When making a right turn, besides the crosswalk before the intersection, there may also be crosswalks at the corner. Be sure to check for pedestrians on the crosswalk.
I think in many places right turns on red are allowed, as long as there are no prohibitory signs or arrow signals. As a veteran driver with twenty years of experience, I know the rules vary by region—for example, in most U.S. states, right turns on red are permitted but require a complete stop to observe safety; in left-driving countries like the UK, the situation is more complex. The key is to always stop and check the surroundings first: pedestrians or cyclists might appear suddenly, and straight-going vehicles have the right of way—never charge through recklessly. I’ve had a few experiences myself where I turned right on red at small intersections when no one was around, but at major intersections, I wait for the green light to avoid tickets. Safety comes first—don’t drive impatiently. I recommend checking the local traffic manual or asking a police friend to confirm the rules.
