Can You Turn Right When There's a Red Light Without a Right-Turn Arrow?
1 Answers
There are three scenarios where vehicles can turn right at a red light, as detailed below: Circular Traffic Light: If the circular traffic light at an intersection turns red, vehicles in the right-turn lane can proceed to turn right. However, you must ensure not to interfere with other vehicles, pedestrians, and vehicles on the right side of the road. Arrow-shaped Right-Turn Signal: If you encounter an arrow-shaped right-turn signal at an intersection, you must not turn right when the red arrow is lit. Turning right under these conditions will be considered running a red light. Circular Red Light with Additional Signage: At some complex intersections, you may find additional signage above the traffic light indicating whether right turns are permitted during a red light. If the sign says "Right Turn on Red," then it is allowed. If it says "No Right Turn on Red," you must wait for the green light before turning. Legal Regulations: According to the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China," motor vehicle and non-motor vehicle traffic signals are defined as follows: When the green light is on, vehicles are permitted to proceed, but turning vehicles must not obstruct the passage of straight-moving vehicles or pedestrians. When the yellow light is on, vehicles that have already crossed the stop line may continue to proceed. When the red light is on, vehicles are prohibited from proceeding. At intersections without non-motor vehicle or pedestrian crossing signals, non-motor vehicles and pedestrians should follow the motor vehicle traffic signals. When the red light is on, right-turning vehicles may proceed if they do not obstruct the passage of other vehicles or pedestrians. The "Road Traffic Safety Law" stipulates the following regarding traffic signals: Article 25, Paragraph 2: Traffic signals include traffic lights, traffic signs, road markings, and the directions of traffic police. Article 26: Traffic lights consist of red, green, and yellow lights. Red indicates prohibition, green indicates permission, and yellow serves as a warning. Article 38: Vehicles and pedestrians must follow traffic signals. In the presence of traffic police directing traffic, follow their directions. On roads without traffic signals, proceed under the principles of safety and smooth traffic flow. Article 62: Pedestrians crossing intersections or roads should use crosswalks or pedestrian facilities. At signalized crosswalks, follow the traffic signals. At unsignalized intersections or road sections without pedestrian facilities, cross only after ensuring safety. Article 89: Pedestrians, passengers, and non-motor vehicle drivers violating road traffic laws and regulations may receive a warning or a fine ranging from 5 to 50 yuan. Non-motor vehicle drivers refusing to pay fines may have their vehicles impounded. Driving a motor vehicle in violation of traffic signals results in a 6-point penalty. Right-Turn Precautions: Observe Oncoming Straight Traffic: When turning right, check both the right and left sides for oncoming vehicles. Watch for Opposite Left-Turning Vehicles: Besides straight-moving vehicles, be aware of any left-turning vehicles from the opposite direction. Yield to them before proceeding. Be Mindful of Pedestrians: Right turns often involve crosswalks at both the approach and the corner. Always check for pedestrians before turning.