As of January 2025, Maryland’s traffic rules regarding right turns on red lights have not undergone any significant changes. The existing law, as outlined in the Maryland Transportation Code Section 21-202, remains in effect. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the current right turn on red rule in Maryland:
Right Turn on Red in Maryland
General Rule
In Maryland, drivers are generally allowed to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop, unless explicitly prohibited by signage. The law states:
- Vehicles facing a steady red signal must first stop at:
- A clearly marked stop line
- Before entering any crosswalk if there’s no stop line
- Before entering the intersection if there’s no crosswalk
- After stopping, drivers may cautiously enter the intersection to make a right turn.
Exceptions and Considerations
- Prohibited Turns: Right turns on red are not allowed if there’s a sign prohibiting such turns.
- Yielding: Drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians, bicyclists in adjacent crosswalks, and any vehicles in or approaching the intersection that may constitute an immediate hazard.
- Left Turns: Left turns on red are only permitted from a one-way street onto another one-way street.
Safety Concerns and Debates
While Maryland has not implemented changes to its right-on-red law, there are ongoing discussions about the safety implications of this practice:
- Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety: Concerns have been raised about the potential risks to pedestrians and cyclists when drivers make right turns on red.
- Elderly and Disabled Pedestrians: The practice can pose challenges for slower-moving pedestrians crossing intersections.
- Driver Focus: Critics argue that drivers may focus more on checking for oncoming traffic than on pedestrians and cyclists when making these turns.
Comparison with Neighboring Jurisdictions
It’s worth noting that while Maryland maintains its current policy, neighboring Washington D.C. has implemented changes:
- D.C. Ban: As of January 1, 2025, D.C. has officially banned right turns on red at all intersections.
- Enforcement Challenges: However, D.C.’s ban faces enforcement challenges due to funding issues for new signage.
Conclusion
As of early 2025, Maryland continues to allow right turns on red lights, maintaining its long-standing traffic policy. Drivers in Maryland should remain vigilant, always come to a complete stop before turning, and be particularly aware of pedestrians and cyclists. While debates about the safety of this practice continue, no immediate changes to Maryland’s law have been implemented or announced.
Sources:
- https://wjla.com/news/local/dmv-new-laws-dc-maryland-virginia-2025-take-effect-wages-driving-finances-legislation-red-light-fines-car-insurance-road-worker-act-health-care-housing-programs-minimum-wage-businesses-residents
- https://wjla.com/news/local/laws-maryland-new-enact-effect-business-owners-job-applicants-road-worker-protections-medical-devices-insurance-medical-assistance-program-hearing-aids-health-safety-wellness-fines-driving-violations
- https://www.plaxenadler.com/2024/01/30/should-maryland-get-rid-of-right-on-red-for-biker-and-pedestrian-safety/
- https://wtop.com/local/2024/12/new-laws-going-into-effect-across-dc-maryland-and-virginia-on-jan-1-2025/
- https://wjla.com/news/local/2025-new-year-laws-dc-maryland-virginia-wage-businesses-lawmakers-turning-tight-on-red-ban-roads-safety-credit-cards-banks-business-earnings-dmv