Do You Need to Wait for a Red Light When Turning Right?
2 Answers
When the traffic light is fully red or there are no other auxiliary signs, you do not need to wait for the red light to turn right. However, if there is an arrow-type signal, you must wait for the red light to turn right. According to Article 38 (3) of the 'Implementation Regulations of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China,' 'When the red light is on, right-turning vehicles may proceed provided they do not hinder the passage of released vehicles or pedestrians.' This means that, except for a red right-turn arrow signal, you can turn right during a red light as long as it does not hinder the passage of released vehicles or pedestrians. Precautions for turning right during a red light: The vehicle must be in the right-turn lane. When turning right, the vehicle must use the corresponding right-turn lane. If you turn right during a red light while in a straight or left-turn lane, it will be considered running a red light. What if the road has no lane markings? Then, you must wait for the traffic light. Here’s a reminder: the far-right area of the road is not necessarily the right-turn lane. Before turning right, always observe your surroundings and follow the signs or markings to find the correct right-turn lane. Always check the traffic light and observe the signs. If the vehicle encounters a circular red light and there are no signs or arrow signals prohibiting a right turn, you can turn right during the red light. However, if there is a sign or signal prohibiting a right turn, proceeding will still be considered running a red light. As for arrow traffic lights, you can only turn right when the right-turn arrow is green. Yield to pedestrians. If you encounter pedestrians or vehicles going straight or turning left, you must yield; otherwise, the right-turning vehicle will be fully responsible for any accident.
In my driving experience, whether you need to wait at a red light when turning right depends on the specific situation. Generally, in most places, if the intersection has a regular traffic light without a prohibitory sign, you can turn right on red, provided you ensure safety: no pedestrians, bicycles, or oncoming traffic. I always come to a complete stop or slow down to almost a stop, thoroughly observing the surroundings—including sidewalks, mirrors, and blind spots—and am ready to stop at any moment. For example, once I was in a hurry to turn right and almost got hit by a fast-approaching electric bike, so I stick to this habit even more: red lights don’t wait, but safety comes first. Note that some intersections have signs saying 'No Turn on Red' or red arrow lights, in which case you must absolutely wait for the green light; otherwise, you’re taking a risk.
