Can You Turn Right When the Straight and Left Turn Signals Are Red?

[SanMatthew]

You can turn right when the straight and left turn signals are red. Right turns are only prohibited when there is a right-turn arrow signal and it is red, or if you are not in the right-turn lane—regardless of whether the light is green. Otherwise, you may turn right at any time as long as it does not interfere with other vehicles or pedestrians. Situations where right turns are allowed at a red light include: 1. If the intersection has arrow signals, right turns are only permitted when the right-turn arrow is green; otherwise, right turns are not allowed. 2. If there is a sign prohibiting right turns on red at the intersection, right turns are only allowed when the light is green. 3. If there are no other signs at the intersection, vehicles may turn right on red as long as it does not affect the normal flow of other vehicles or pedestrians.

[Amara]

The question of whether you can turn right when the straight and left-turn signals are red is something I've encountered many times in my over ten years of driving. Simply put, if there's no dedicated right-turn red arrow or a 'No Right Turn' sign at the intersection, you can indeed turn right, but it depends on the situation. I remember last week at a crossroad, both the straight and left-turn signals were red, but the circular light was on, so I slowly made a right turn—though I had to stop first to check for pedestrians or cyclists. Sometimes, urban intersections have additional signs saying 'No Right Turn on Red,' in which case you absolutely cannot turn. Safety first—I always confirm the road conditions before turning right, as getting into an accident or receiving a traffic fine isn't worth it. Developing this habit is good; now, even my navigation app reminds me of differences in intersection rules. Overall, understanding local traffic regulations is crucial, as rules may vary slightly between provinces and cities.

[McStella]

As a responsible parent, I always prioritize safety rules when driving my kids. Can you turn right on a red light when going straight or turning left is prohibited? Generally, yes, as long as there's no red arrow signal or explicit no-turn sign. But the key is not to rush through—you must come to a complete stop, observe, and ensure there are no pedestrians crossing or oncoming vehicles going straight. Once, I nearly had an accident at my neighborhood entrance because I didn’t pay enough attention while turning right—thankfully, I braked in time. Just because the rules allow it doesn’t mean you can turn carelessly, especially in rain, snow, or poor visibility; extra caution is crucial. I advise all drivers to remember: a red-light right turn is an opportunity, but safety is the bottom line. Also, checking your lights and visibility is essential to avoid misjudgments.

[FranciscoRose]

When I first got my driver's license, I also wondered whether turning right on red was legal. From a traffic regulation perspective, you can turn right at a regular circular red light unless there's a prohibition sign or arrow light restriction. I always remember what my driving instructor said: you must come to a complete stop and yield before turning right, without affecting other traffic. At intersections in our area, it's usually allowed, but beginners should practice during low-traffic hours to get accustomed.