Can you turn right on a straight-right turn lane when the light is red?
2 Answers
As long as the traffic signal does not indicate that right turns are prohibited, you can turn right. This is permissible in China because traffic keeps to the right. Unless there is a red arrow pointing to the right, right turns are generally allowed. However, you should also consider the lane situation. If the rightmost lane is occupied by vehicles going straight (when the straight light is red), you cannot turn right from the rightmost non-motorized lane, as that would be considered a forced right turn. Additional information: 1. If the red light ahead consists of two sets of circular signals, you can turn right directly; 2. If the red light ahead consists of three sets of circular signals with lane-specific control, you cannot turn right directly; 3. If the red light ahead consists of three sets of arrow signals, you cannot turn right directly.
I've been driving for decades. When encountering a red light in a straight-and-right-turn lane, I usually carefully check for any no-right-turn signs. If there isn't a circular sign with a red circle indicating prohibition, and there are no pedestrians or bicycles blocking the intersection, you can make a right turn—but you must come to a complete stop and ensure it's safe. I remember one time in Beijing's urban area, I was in a hurry. The light was red, but seeing no one coming from the left, I turned right and almost hit a pedestrian who suddenly dashed out. Luckily, I braked in time. This rule is stipulated in traffic laws mainly to improve intersection efficiency and avoid congestion. However, during rush hours with heavy traffic, I'm more cautious because some areas have enforcement cameras, and violations can result in fines and penalty points. In short, safety comes first—never rush a turn. Pedestrians have the right of way!
