No, Maine has not changed its longstanding right-turn-on-red rule as of 2026—it’s still permitted after a full stop and yield.
Current Rule
Maine law allows drivers to make a right turn at a steady red light after coming to a complete stop, provided no sign prohibits it, such as “No Right Turn on Red.” Drivers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and any oncoming traffic with a green light or protected left-turn arrow.
This aligns with federal guidelines under 42 U.S.C. § 6322(c), promoting energy conservation while prioritizing safety.
No 2026 Updates
Recent searches confirm no legislative changes or new bills altering the right-turn-on-red rule for 2026 in Maine. Proposed bills, like one from 2017 for left turns on red, never passed and remain irrelevant.
Municipalities or the Department of Transportation can ban it locally near schools, fire stations, or high-pedestrian areas based on safety factors.
How to Execute Safely
- Stop fully behind the stop line or crosswalk.
- Check signs for prohibitions.
- Yield right-of-way to pedestrians and cross traffic.
- Proceed cautiously when clear.
Violations can lead to fines under Title 29-A, §2057, as it’s treated like running a red light. DMV tests emphasize this: right on red requires stopping and yielding first.
Comparison to Neighbors
| State | Right on Red Allowed? | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Maine | Yes | After stop; signs override |
| New Hampshire | Yes | Same as Maine [prior context] |
| Vermont | Yes | Yield to peds/traffic |
| Massachusetts | Yes | Prohibited in Boston areas |
Enforcement and Penalties
State police remind drivers via social media during peak times, like spring, to avoid common errors at dead signals—treat as all-way stop. Fines start at $100–$250 for failure to yield, escalating with accidents. No new tech like variable signs impacts this rule per 2025–2026 bills.
Practical Tips
Scan mirrors, blind spots, and intersections fully before turning. In winter, ice heightens risks—extra caution advised. Consult the Maine Driver’s Handbook or local DMV for visuals; rules unchanged since 1993 revisions. For updates, check legislature.maine.gov, as no 2026 shifts appear.
SOURCES:
- https://wgme.com/news/local/proposed-bill-would-allow-drivers-to-make-left-turn-at-red-light
- https://wjbq.com/friendly-reminder-to-everyone-who-forgot-this-simple-rule-at-traffic-lights-this-morning/
