As of January 2025, there have been no significant updates to Virginia’s traffic rules regarding right turns on red lights. The existing law in Virginia, as outlined in § 46.2-835 of the Virginia Code, remains in effect. Here’s a detailed explanation of the current right turn on red rule in Virginia:
Right Turn on Red in Virginia
General Rule
In Virginia, motorists are permitted to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a full stop, unless explicitly prohibited by a traffic control device. This rule applies to steady red circular signals.
Key Points
- Drivers must come to a complete stop before making the turn.
- The turn should be made cautiously, entering the intersection with care.
- Drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in adjacent crosswalks and other traffic using the intersection.
Exceptions
- Prohibited Turns: Right turns on red are not allowed if there is a traffic control device (sign) specifically prohibiting such turns.
- Red Arrow Signals: When facing a steady red arrow, vehicles must remain stopped until a signal to proceed is shown, unless a traffic control device permits turns on a steady red.
Additional Traffic Light Rules in Virginia
While not directly related to right turns on red, it’s important to understand other traffic light signals in Virginia:
- Steady Red: Indicates that moving traffic must stop and remain stopped.
- Green: Allows traffic to move in the signal’s direction, yielding to vehicles and pedestrians already in the intersection.
- Steady Amber: Warns of an impending change in traffic direction. Vehicles should stop if it’s not safe to continue.
- Flashing Circular Red: Requires traffic to stop before entering an intersection and yield to traffic already in the intersection.
Special Provisions for Motorcycles, Mopeds, and Bicycles
Virginia law includes a unique provision for motorcycles, mopeds, and bicycles at red lights:
- These vehicles may proceed through a steady red light if:
- They come to a full stop for two complete light cycles or two minutes (whichever is shorter).
- Exercise due care and treat the light as a stop sign.
- Determine it’s safe to proceed.
- Yield right-of-way to approaching vehicles.
It’s crucial for all drivers to stay informed about traffic laws and practice safe driving habits, especially when making turns at intersections.
Sources
- https://www.tthlaw.com/d-c-passes-bill-banning-right-turns-at-red-lights-and-implements-the-idaho-stop-for-cyclists/
- https://wjla.com/news/local/dmv-new-laws-2025-washington-dc-bans-right-turns-at-red-lights-ddot-drivers-january-1-council-transportation-traffic-signage-public-education-campaign-cars-vehicles-police-accidents-crashed-pedestrian-cross-walks-tickets-fines
- https://wtop.com/local/2024/12/new-laws-going-into-effect-across-dc-maryland-and-virginia-on-jan-1-2025/
- https://www.arlingtonva.us/Government/Programs/Transportation/Vision-Zero/Tools-and-Guidelines/Multimodal-Safety-Engineering-Toolbox-Web-Format/No-Right-Turn-on-Red
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