Do You Need to Check Traffic Lights When Making a Right Turn?

[VonBrandon]

There are three scenarios where vehicles can make a right turn on 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 traffic 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 cannot turn right when the red arrow is lit. Making a right turn under these conditions will be considered running a red light. Circular Red Light with Additional Signage: At some complex intersections, you may find a sign above the traffic light indicating whether right turns are allowed on red. If the sign says "Right Turn on Red Allowed," you may proceed. 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 straight-moving vehicles or pedestrians. When the yellow light is on, vehicles that have already crossed the stop line may continue. 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 other vehicles or pedestrians. The "Road Traffic Safety Law" stipulates the following regarding traffic lights: 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 means stop, green means go, and yellow serves as a warning. Article 38: Vehicles and pedestrians must follow traffic signals. In the presence of traffic police, follow their directions. On roads without traffic signals, proceed under the principles of safety and smooth traffic flow. Article 62: Pedestrians should use crosswalks or pedestrian facilities when crossing intersections or roads. At signalized crosswalks, follow the traffic signals. At unsignalized crossings or roads without pedestrian facilities, cross only after confirming safety. Article 89: Pedestrians, passengers, and non-motor vehicle drivers violating traffic laws may receive a warning or a fine of 5 to 50 yuan. Non-motor vehicle drivers refusing to pay fines may have their vehicles impounded. Motor vehicle drivers violating traffic light rules will receive 6 penalty points. Right-Turn Precautions: Watch for Straight-Moving Vehicles on the Left: When turning right, check both the right and left sides for oncoming traffic. Watch for Left-Turning Vehicles from the Opposite Direction: Besides straight-moving vehicles, also look for left-turning vehicles from the opposite direction. Yield to them before proceeding. Watch for Pedestrians: In addition to crosswalks before the intersection, there may also be crosswalks at the corner. Always check for pedestrians when turning right.

[LeKing]

Regarding whether you need to look at traffic lights when making a right turn while driving, this must be discussed from the perspective of traffic rules. According to driving regulations, no matter where you are driving, you must observe the traffic light signals when making a right turn. When the light is green, you can proceed with the turn directly while maintaining an appropriate speed. When the light is red, you are only allowed to turn if there is no prohibition sign and you have ensured the road and pedestrians are completely safe, but remember to come to a full stop first to clearly observe the signal light color and the surrounding environment. At intersections or busy streets, traffic lights are key to controlling safety. Ignoring them may lead to traffic accidents, such as colliding with vehicles coming from the side or pedestrians crossing the road, and may also result in fines or penalty points if caught by cameras. Developing the habit of slowing down and confirming the light signal before making a right turn not only avoids risks but also demonstrates good driving behavior. Especially in large cities where traffic light setups can be complex, it is even more important to prioritize checking the light signals to avoid misunderstandings.