North Carolina New Rule on Right Turns at Red Lights: Everything Drivers Need to Know

The Hoptown Press reports:

North Carolina’s right-turn-on-red (RTOR) law is a crucial part of the state’s traffic regulations. Recent discussions and updates have clarified the rules, exceptions, penalties, and safety concerns surrounding this common driving maneuver. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what drivers need to know in 2025.

General Rule: Right Turn on Red Permitted

• In most intersections across North Carolina, drivers are allowed to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop.
• Before turning, drivers must yield to all pedestrians and oncoming traffic. The intersection must be clear of vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians before proceeding.
• This rule applies unless there is a posted sign explicitly prohibiting a right turn on red at that intersection.

Key Steps for a Legal Right Turn on Red

• Come to a Complete Stop: Stop at the marked stop line, before entering the crosswalk, or before entering the intersection if there is no line.
• Yield Right-of-Way: Look for pedestrians in the crosswalk and oncoming vehicles. Yield to anyone who has the right-of-way.
• Check for Prohibitive Signs: If a sign says “No Turn on Red,” you must wait for the green light.
• Proceed with Caution: Only turn when the way is completely clear. Defensive driving is recommended-look left, right, and left again before moving.

Important Exceptions and Updates

• Red Arrows: North Carolina law prohibits right turns on a red arrow. This rule was updated in 2012, but many drivers remain unaware. Turning right on a red arrow can result in a ticket, even if the intersection would otherwise allow a right turn on a solid red light.
• Special Intersections: Some intersections, especially near schools or with heavy pedestrian traffic, may have additional restrictions or posted signs banning right turns on red.
• Flashing Red Lights: A flashing red light is treated like a stop sign. You must stop and yield, but standard RTOR rules still apply unless otherwise posted.

Penalties for Violations

• Running a Red Light: If you turn right on red without stopping, or where it is prohibited, you can receive a civil infraction. This typically results in a $50 fine, but does not add points to your license or affect your insurance.
• Failure to Yield: Not yielding to pedestrians or oncoming traffic can result in more serious penalties, including fines, demerit points, and liability for any injuries caused.
• Right Turn on Red Arrow: Violating the red arrow restriction can also result in a citation and fine.

Safety Considerations and Trends

• Growing Restrictions: While North Carolina still allows RTOR in most places, some cities nationwide are considering bans or additional restrictions due to increased pedestrian and cyclist accidents. Larger vehicles like SUVs and pickups are especially risky due to bigger blind spots.
• Defensive Driving: Always scan your surroundings, move slowly into the intersection, and be prepared to stop if conditions change suddenly.

Common Misconceptions

• RTOR Is Not Always Allowed: Many drivers mistakenly believe you can always turn right on red. This is only true if there are no prohibitive signs and all safety conditions are met.
• Flashing Red ≠ RTOR: A flashing red is not a green light for RTOR; it requires a full stop and yielding, just like a stop sign.

Right Turn on Red in North Carolina

North Carolina permits right turns on red at most intersections after a complete stop, provided you yield to all pedestrians and vehicles and there is no sign prohibiting the maneuver. Turning right on a red arrow remains illegal. Always check for signs, follow right-of-way rules, and drive defensively to ensure safety and compliance with the law.