How to Successfully Navigate Texas Right Turn on Red Laws and Avoid Traffic Violations
Is turning right on red in Texas a legal maneuver, or do you need to wait for a green light? Every driver should fully understand Texas red light right turn law to avoid a car accident as well as the potential for getting a citation from law enforcement officers.
If you were injured in a car accident at a red light in Texas, you should discuss your case with a personal injury attorney. Angel Reyes & Associates provides 5-star personal injury support for victims in these situations in Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, and Houston. In this blog, we highlight what all road users need to know about what the law states for turning right at a red light.
Texas Traffic Laws and Right Turns on Red
In Texas, it’s legal to turn right when the light is red. You must come to a complete stop first before taking the turn to check that the way is clear and yield to pedestrians and oncoming traffic before turning right.
Certain intersections may have a sign prohibiting this practice—and with good reason. It may be due to the light turning green for the left turn lanes on the other side or pedestrians crossing. When signs prohibit making a right when the light is red, the action is illegal, even if you come to a full stop first.
These rules are listed by the Texas Transportation Commission, a municipal authority, under Code § 544.007(d)(1). To avoid making an illegal turn at a red light, always check for signs that may be posted and follow them accordingly to stay safe.
Exceptions to Right Turn on Red in Texas
When you approach a red stop light, there may be signs indicating that it’s prohibited. You may see “No Right on Red” posted due to high pedestrian crosswalk areas or construction.
While you might not be thrilled to stop at the red light, these signs are there for good reason. You must stop at the stop line or marked limit line and wait until your light turns green. Failing to obey will likely result in moving violations or an accident.
Understanding the Risks of Right Turns on Red
Turning right when the light is red can be hazardous to you and any passengers in your vehicle if not done properly. This action may lead to accidents with pedestrians, cyclists, or other vehicles. Always fully stop at a red light and don’t proceed with making the turn until the way is clear.
If there’s a sign that prohibits the right while the light is red, it’s illegal to make the turn. Every driver must wait until the light changes before they can go. If you have limited visibility, it doesn’t matter whether turning is legal or illegal. Being unable to see other traffic coming is a huge danger to any driver turning right.
Intersections with Special Rules
Although red light cameras are banned in Texas and some other states, you may see intersections marked with special signage indicating restrictions for right turns when the light is red. If you see indications for no turns on red signs, it’s important to obey or it could cost you in the form of a hefty fine or worse, a debilitating car crash.
These signs aren’t posted arbitrarily. There are reasons why officials want to limit things like left turns or right turns as it protects other traffic from coming into danger. It’s why you see stop signs at many crossings where a light signal may not be necessary—it’s meant for every driver to take the right precautions and be safe when proceeding through these crossings.
What to Do if You Were Injured in an Accident
If you were injured in an accident caused by a driver who turned right when the light was red, you must take the right steps. When you get hit at an intersection because someone else made a wrong move and turned right when there was a “No Turn on Red” sign posted or they just rolled through without coming to a complete stop, you will want to call the police.
When officers arrive, they will file a police report that details the accident, such as what direction the vehicles were going and whether or not any citations were issued. If they can determine that the other driver made an illegal maneuver and compromised safety, this will likely be indicated in their report.
You should take photos and videos of the accident scene and get the contact information for any witnesses who saw the accident as it occurred. Make sure you also seek immediate medical attention since some injuries may not be obvious, especially when the rush of adrenaline is still coursing through your veins.
Most importantly, for any accident, whether you were making a left turn or a right turn, contact a car accident lawyer to discuss your case. They will know about Texas traffic laws and how to advocate for sufficient compensation for your injuries.
Liability for Accidents Caused by Right Turns on Red
When a driver fails to yield or follow traffic laws when turning right on red, they may be held liable for damages. Texas is an at-fault state, and if the investigation reveals the other driver behaved negligently, they will be accountable.
However, you should also know that the modified comparative negligence rule may mean that you could be assigned some of the blame as well. This is why you will want to speak with a car accident lawyer who can help you understand your legal rights and options in your circumstances.
Understanding the Penalties for Running a Red Light
Running a red light in Texas is considered a Class C misdemeanor, which is punishable by a fine of up to $200. If you run a red light even just by rolling through it while making a right turn, it’s a traffic violation that can cause you to have points on your driving record.
Additionally, your insurance company may raise your premiums as they will consider you a riskier driver to insure. In the event you turned right at the red light and caused an accident, you’ll have even more issues to contend with by being held liable for the crash.
Fighting a Red Light Ticket
If you receive a ticket for running a light that was allegedly red, you can fight it in court. A traffic ticket attorney can help with this situation and will explain these charges to you. They will also explain the potential penalties you will face if you cannot get the citation dismissed.
Key Takeaways for Right Turns at Red Lights in Texas
Always come to a full stop before you make a turn right when the light is red. Make sure you watch out for pedestrians and other vehicles, as well as make sure there are no signs posted forbidding right on red. Taking these steps can help prevent accidents and injuries. Contact Angel Reyes & Associates for a free consultation.
