What are the rules for right turns at traffic lights?
3 Answers
Traffic light rules for right turns are as follows: No special signal light: If the intersection only has a standard circular traffic light without any additional auxiliary signs, vehicles can make a right turn as long as they do not obstruct other vehicles or pedestrians. Right-turn arrow signal: When the traffic light is not the common "circular" type but an arrow signal, it clearly indicates the right-of-way for each direction. A right turn is only permitted when the green arrow is illuminated. Dedicated right-turn lane: Some intersections have dedicated right-turn lanes. At these intersections, the rightmost lane usually does not allow right turns; instead, a separate right-turn lane is designated on the right side. Other prohibition signs: Certain intersections may have additional signs, such as "No Right Turn" or "No Right Turn on Red." If these prohibition signs are present, right turns are not allowed.
When I first started driving, I was often confused about the right-turn rules at traffic lights. Later, I understood the basic principle that you can usually turn right when the red light is on, but you must confirm there are no prohibition signs, such as the 'No Right Turn on Red' sign posted by the roadside. When turning right, you must yield to pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles going straight, and never cut in. I remember once making a sudden right turn at an intersection and almost hitting an elderly person crossing the street unexpectedly, so now I’ve developed the habit of slowing down and checking carefully first. Turning right on a green light is more flexible, but you still can’t be careless—always check blind spots around you. Rules may vary by city; Beijing is generally more lenient, while some intersections in Shanghai are stricter—always follow local signage. Safety comes first when driving; don’t rush, patience is key, especially in poor weather with limited visibility.
The rules for right turns at traffic lights are actually quite simple. In most cases, you can turn right on a red light, provided there's no specific prohibition sign. The key point is that you must come to a complete stop and yield to pedestrians, electric vehicles, and vehicles coming from the left to avoid conflicts. During a green light, you can of course turn right, but be alert for pedestrians who might suddenly dart out. When driving, I often feel some drivers are too reckless—turning too quickly can easily lead to accidents. Details in the rules, such as when an arrow signal is present, mean you absolutely cannot turn if the red arrow is lit. There are also big differences between cities; when I was on a business trip in Suzhou, I noticed suburban intersections had more flexible rules, while downtown areas often had restrictions. I advise friends to get into the habit of scanning traffic signs before driving, slowing down to observe, and not relying entirely on experience.
