Anderson Injury Lawyers | September 3, 2025 | Car Accidents
If you drive in Texas, you may have wondered whether it’s legal to turn right at a red light. The short answer is yes. However, a right turn at a red light is only legal under certain conditions. Understanding the rules is crucial. It is important to obey traffic laws, but also critical to avoid accidents and legal liability. Keep reading to learn more about traffic laws in Texas, including when it is legal to make a right turn at a red light.
Is It Legal to Turn Right on Red in Texas?
Texas law permits drivers to turn right at a red light. However, you may only do so after completing several important steps.
To ensure you’re driving legally, follow these steps:
- Come to a complete stop. A rolling stop is not sufficient. Stop fully before proceeding. Ideally, you should pause for a few seconds to ensure you’ve assessed the intersection.
- Stop before entering the crosswalk. Your vehicle must stop at the designated line. This line is in front of the crosswalk. Stopping in the crosswalk is illegal and endangers pedestrians.
- Check for “No Right on Red” signs. Some intersections prohibit right turns on red. This can be due to traffic patterns, visibility concerns, or pedestrian activity. Always obey posted signs.
- Yield to pedestrians and oncoming traffic. Before turning, ensure the path is clear. Failing to yield can result in an accident and legal liability.
Following these steps keeps you compliant with Texas traffic laws. These measures are important to prevent accidents and keep you safe on the road.
When Can a “No Right on Red” Sign Be Posted?
“No Right on Red” signs are not arbitrary. They are installed for safety reasons.
Some common scenarios where right turns on red are prohibited include:
- High pedestrian traffic: Busy intersections, particularly near schools or parks, may restrict right turns on red to protect pedestrians.
- Limited visibility: Intersections with obstructed views of oncoming traffic may require a full green light for right turns.
- Complex traffic patterns: Multi-lane intersections or unusual road layouts can create confusion. This confusion can lead to danger if right turns are allowed on red lights.
- Accident-prone areas: Intersections with a history of collisions may restrict right turns on red. This is a preventative measure to protect drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists.
Always pay attention to these signs. Ignoring them can result in traffic violations, fines, or accidents resulting in serious injuries.
Penalties for Illegal Right Turns on Red in Texas
Making an illegal right turn at a red light is considered a traffic violation. It is typically classified as a misdemeanor and punishable by a fine ranging from $1 to $200.
Beyond the monetary fine, traffic violations can also impact your driving record, increase insurance premiums, and contribute to liability in an accident. Adhering to the rules will help prevent legal consequences. Knowing when you are prohibited from a right turn on red can keep roads safer for everyone.
What to Do if a Driver Turning Right on Red Crashes into You
Accidents involving drivers making illegal right turns on red can result in catastrophic injuries.
If you are a victim, it is critical to take the following steps:
- Seek medical attention immediately. Some injuries are not readily apparent. Seek a professional evaluation as soon as possible.
- Document the scene. Take photos of the intersection, vehicles, damages, and injuries. Collect witness information as well.
- File a police report. A police report provides an official record of the incident. This is important for insurance and legal claims.
- Notify your insurance company. Promptly report the accident to ensure compliance with your policy.
Every action you take immediately following an accident can influence your ability to recover damages. Make sure to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney. Your lawyer can guide you through the legal process and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Contact the Dallas Car Accident Lawyers at Anderson Injury Lawyers for Help Today
Turning right at a red light in Texas is only legal when done properly. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident caused by a driver making an illegal right turn on red, contact Anderson Injury Lawyers.
Our experienced Dallas personal injury attorneys have the skills and resources to help protect your legal rights. We understand what it takes to recover compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and emotional suffering.
Contact us today for a free consultation with a Dallas car accident attorney. We work on a contingency fee basis, so you have zero financial risk to pursue justice. Your recovery starts with the right legal team on your side, so call Anderson Injury Lawyers today.
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Fort Worth or Dallas and need legal help, contact our personal injury lawyers at Anderson Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation. We proudly serve Tarrant County, Dallas County, and throughout Texas.
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