Can You Turn Right on a Straight Red Light?

[McDaniela]

A straight red light does not allow a right turn. A full green light in principle permits left turns, going straight, and right turns. A green arrow light allows movement in the specified lane according to the direction of the arrow, and arrow traffic lights are usually accompanied by lane indicator signs. When vehicles pass through an intersection with arrow traffic lights, in addition to following the guidance of the arrow lights, they must also choose the correct lane. When the left-turn green arrow light is on, vehicles can only pass through the left-turn lane. When the straight green arrow light is on, vehicles can only pass through the straight lane. In the absence of additional traffic signs or markings, a right turn can be made under the premise of ensuring safety. If there is a sign indicating to proceed straight on a right turn when the straight light is green, then the green straight light allows passage. At any time, pedestrians on crosswalks must be given way. Modern traffic signals are very user-friendly, and at particularly complex intersections, there may be traffic police directing traffic or Chinese character prompts. Road traffic signals are a category of traffic safety products. They are an important tool for strengthening road traffic management, reducing the occurrence of traffic accidents, improving road usage efficiency, and enhancing traffic conditions. They are applicable at intersections such as crossroads and T-junctions, controlled by road traffic signal controllers, guiding vehicles and pedestrians to pass safely and orderly.

[Selena]

Whether you can turn right on a red light depends on the actual situation. According to traffic laws in our country, it's allowed at most intersections as long as you come to a complete stop and observe carefully before turning right to ensure safety. But remember, if there's a clear sign prohibiting right turns on red, then it's absolutely not allowed. Having driven for so many years, I often encounter this situation in the city: when the light changes from green to red, many drivers rush to turn right without slowing down to observe pedestrians or oncoming traffic, leading to dangerous situations. My advice is to always slow down when turning right, especially during rainy nights or when visibility is poor, as these are high-risk times for accidents. Safety is far more important than saving time. Develop the habit of stopping for two or three seconds before crosswalks, and you'll drive with peace of mind.

[StHeidi]

New drivers often struggle with this issue. I was confused too when I first started driving, but later learned the principle from a police officer friend: right turns are generally allowed at a red light for straight traffic, but the prerequisite is yielding to all straight-moving vehicles and pedestrians. For example, at an intersection, if there are vehicles with a green light coming from the opposite direction or people on the crosswalk, you must let them pass first. I made a mistake myself once—I turned hastily without checking for pedestrians and nearly hit someone. Now, I always slow down in advance and stop at the crosswalk. Legally, violations can result in fines and points deduction, so developing the habit of checking traffic signs is both safe and worry-free.

[KyleMarie]

From a legal perspective, right turns on red are permitted in most areas unless prohibited by signage. The rule is designed for safety: you must yield to through traffic and pedestrians at the intersection, otherwise you may face penalties. I've seen drivers fined 200 yuan for failing to notice crosswalks - a sobering lesson. In short, obeying traffic signals is crucial; don't take risks.