Under what circumstances can you turn right without looking at the traffic light?

[JasonDella]

There are two types of red traffic lights at intersections: circular red lights and arrow indicator lights. 1. Circular red light: When turning right, even if the intersection shows a red light, you can still turn right as long as there are no specific traffic instructions. It is not considered a violation, but remember to yield to pedestrians. 2. Arrow indicator light: You can only turn right when the right-turn arrow turns green; otherwise, it is considered running a red light and a traffic violation. 3. In the case of a circular indicator light: Although this type of circular indicator light does not explicitly indicate a right turn, drivers must pay attention when they see it. While turning right is allowed in this situation, they must yield to vehicles going straight. If an accident occurs under these circumstances, the driver will bear the primary responsibility.

[BradyDella]

I remember being most afraid of right turns when I first started driving. Later, a traffic police friend told me there are actually several situations where you don't need to rigidly focus on traffic lights. The most common is a circular red light paired with a sign allowing right turns - in this case, you can turn directly. Another situation is when there's a dedicated right-turn lane without an arrow signal - you can still turn during a red light but must yield to through traffic. However, be careful not to violate intersections with no right turn signs. Also, when encountering accumulated water at intersections or obstructed visibility, even if regulations permit, always observe first before turning - safety should always come first.

[DeRobert]

The instructor emphasized this point during the last safe driving training session. Simply put, it depends on the type of traffic signal. At a full circular red light, right turns are permitted if there's a supplementary sign allowing it. In some cities, right turns are allowed by default in the absence of such signs, but pedestrians must be given way. At intersections with arrow signals, you must wait for the green arrow. However, when the right-turn arrow isn't lit, turns are generally permitted by default. The key is to pay close attention to road markings and traffic signs, especially in school zones where special restrictions often apply. Don't just focus on the lights and forget to watch the road.

[StMolly]

After more than ten years of driving, I've summarized the experience: whether you can make a right turn mainly depends on three things. First, the type of traffic light—you can usually turn right on a solid red light but must wait for a green arrow light. Second, whether there are any no-turn signs at the intersection. Third, the actual road conditions. The most common violations are turning right on a red arrow light and failing to yield to pedestrians. During rush hour, many drivers are in a hurry to turn right and end up getting caught on camera. It's recommended that beginners install a dashcam to keep evidence in case of disputes. Remember, pedestrians always have the right of way.