STATE LAWS ALLOWING DRIVERS TO TURN ON RED LIGHTS

The laws of 49 states which allows drivers to turn on a steady red light and those of two jurisdictions which do not have a comparable rule are reviewed, and important details about these laws are discussed. It was found that the states differ as to when drivers may turn on a steady red light. It is suggested that state legislatures should adopt the same rules for red lights as the best and most economical way of ensuring safe driving for both local and out-of-state highway users. It has been found that state legislatures respond favorably and quickly when a need for action is documented. The study also found that some laws are poorly drafted and do not protect the rights of pedestrians. Locations which permit a turn on red without stopping, bear watching. The report discusses such aspects as the duty to stop before turning, the duties of turning motorists to yield, and the types of turns allowed in various states. The prohibition of turns, pedestrian crossing on red, and cautious intersection entry are also discussed.

• Corporate Authors:

  National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

  1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
  Washington, DC  United States  20590
• Authors:
  • Kearney, E F
• Publication Date: 1977-1

Media Info

• Features: Tables;
• Pagination: 29 p.
• Serial:
  • Traffic Laws Commentary
  • Volume: 6
  • Issue Number: 11

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Approach lanes; Crosswalks; Highway safety; Intersections; Laws; Pedestrians; Right turn on red; State government; Stop signs
• Old TRIS Terms: Intersection approach; Yield
• Subject Areas: Highways; Law; Operations and Traffic Management; Pedestrians and Bicyclists;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00157214
• Record Type: Publication
• Contract Numbers: DOT-HS-802-169
• Files: TRIS, USDOT
• Created Date: Aug 15 1977 12:00AM