Navigating the ever-changing landscape of traffic laws can be a challenge for even the most seasoned drivers. In Texas, 2024 brings a notable update to the right turn on red rule, which affects how motorists can make a right turn at a red light. Here is what you need to know about this rule and how to follow it safely and legally.

What is the right turn on red rule?

The right turn on red rule allows drivers to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop and yielding to pedestrians and cross traffic. This rule is intended to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion at intersections. However, there are some exceptions and restrictions to this rule that drivers must be aware of.

When can you turn right on red in Texas?

According to the Texas Transportation Code, you can turn right on red in Texas unless there is a sign that prohibits it or a red arrow that indicates otherwise. You must also stop before turning right on red and check for any pedestrians, bicyclists, or vehicles that have the right of way. You may make a right turn on red from both the left and right lanes of dual right turn lanes unless there are specific signs prohibiting it.

When can you not turn right on red in Texas?

There are some situations where you cannot turn right on red in Texas, even if there is no sign or arrow that forbids it. These include:

When there is a red light camera installed at the intersection. These cameras are designed to capture the license plate of any vehicle that runs a red light or makes an illegal turn on red. If you turn right on red at such an intersection, you may receive a citation and a fine in the mail.

When there is a school bus stopped with its red lights flashing and its stop arm extended. This means that children are getting on or off the bus and you must stop and wait until the bus resumes its movement or turns off its lights and arm.

When there is a railroad crossing near the intersection. You must stop at the marked stop line or before the crossing and wait until the train passes or the signals stop before proceeding with your turn.

When there is a fire truck, ambulance, police car, or other emergency vehicle approaching or passing through the intersection with its lights and sirens on. You must pull over to the right edge of the road and stop until the emergency vehicle has cleared the intersection.

What are the penalties for violating the right turn on red rule in Texas?

A motorist who runs a red light or makes a turn on red where the law forbids it will get a ticket. The fine depends on the circumstances of the traffic stop, including where in the state they received it. Fines for running a red light or stop sign range from $150 to $275 in Texas. A conviction usually adds two demerit points to a driver’s license, which can lead to higher insurance rates or license suspension if accumulated.

How to turn right on red safely and legally in Texas?

To turn right on red safely and legally in Texas, you should follow these steps:

• Approach the intersection and slow down as you approach the red light.
• Stop at the marked stop line or before the crosswalk or intersection, whichever comes first.
• Look to your left and check for any oncoming traffic or pedestrians that have the green light or the walk signal. Also, look to your right and check for any pedestrians or bicyclists on the sidewalk or crosswalk.
• If the coast is clear and there is no sign or arrow that prohibits it, make your right turn on red. Do not forget to use your turn signal and yield to any traffic or pedestrians that may appear while you are turning.
• If there is a sign or arrow that forbids it, or if there is traffic or pedestrians that have the right of way, wait until the light turns green or the arrow changes to green before making your turn.

Conclusion

The right turn on red rule is a common and convenient traffic rule that allows drivers to make a right turn at a red light after stopping and yielding. However, this rule is not universal and has some exceptions and restrictions that drivers must follow. By understanding the right turn on red rule in Texas and its updates in 2024, you can avoid traffic violations and fines, and more importantly, prevent accidents and injuries on the road.