In Virginia, as in most U.S. states, drivers are generally allowed to make a right turn at a circular red light after coming to a complete stop—unless a sign prohibits it, such as a “No Turn on Red” sign.
This rule helps keep traffic moving but can also increase the risk of accidents, especially if drivers are distracted or in a hurry and fail to yield to pedestrians and bicyclists. Right-turn-on-red accidents can lead to serious injuries, particularly in busy urban areas.
At Shapiro, Washburn, & Sharp, we frequently represent victims injured in car accidents where a right turn on red was allowed. Our experience handling such cases helps our clients recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Call our Virginia Beach car accident lawyers at 833-997-1774 for a free consultation.
What Does Virginia Law Say About Right Turns on Red Lights?
Virginia law permits right turns on red under specific conditions. According to Virginia Code § 46.2-835, vehicles facing a steady red circular light “after coming to a full stop, may cautiously enter the intersection and make a right turn” unless there is a sign prohibiting it. If there is a steady red arrow, the reverse is the case—no turn on red unless there is a sign specifically permitting such. It’s important to note here that drivers must come to a complete stop, as a “rolling stop” is illegal.
Next, drivers must yield the right-of-way to all others using the intersection—that includes pedestrians who are lawfully within the crosswalk, cyclists who may be crossing or approaching the intersection, and oncoming vehicles who are already in the intersection or who have the right of way. Even vehicles approaching from the left or making U-turns have the right-of-way.
Finally, drivers must be sure there is a clear path to turn right without causing a collision. That means they must be aware of any oncoming traffic, pedestrians, and bicyclists. They must also turn into the lane closest to the right curb. Swerving into other lanes right after turning is prohibited by law as it can cause accidents. Drivers must wait until it is safe and legal to change lanes.
When Is a Right Turn on Red Prohibited?
As noted above, a right turn on red is prohibited if a sign expressly prohibits it. Look for “No Turn on Red” signs, as they override the general right-turn-on-red rule. Also, be aware of less common steady red arrows, which do not permit right turns on red unless there is a sign specially allowing so. Some intersections with high accident rates or complex lane configurations are more likely to have restrictions on right turns on red.
Keep in mind that a yellow arrow signal turning red soon indicates a no-turn-on-red situation. Drivers must prepare to stop completely. School zones may also present exceptions to the rule. During designated school hours, right turns on red may be prohibited to help ensure students’ safety.
Drivers who break the rules for right turns on red in Virginia may receive a traffic citation, typically carrying a fine along with additional court costs. In some cases, the violation may add demerit points to the driver’s driving record. If a driver causes an accident that injures someone when illegally turning right on red, they may face civil liability for the victim’s damages.
What Are the Common Causes of Right-Turn-On-Red Accidents?
Several factors frequently contribute to accidents during right turns on red. Understanding these causes and how they can occur can help drivers stay more alert at intersections.
Failure to Yield
One of the most common causes of right-turn-on-red accidents resulting in injury is failing to yield to pedestrians, cyclists, or oncoming traffic. For example, a driver at a busy downtown intersection looks left for cars but fails to check the crosswalk to the right. They pull out and strike a pedestrian who had the right-of-way according to the walk signal. That pedestrian may then choose to sue the driver who broke the law.
Inattention or Distraction
Drivers who may be distracted by their phones, navigation systems, or even talking to passengers may not notice pedestrians or cars approaching. If a driver is glancing down at their phone as a text message comes in and simultaneously rolls into the intersection and hits a cyclist, that driver could be liable for the cyclist’s damages.
Incomplete Stops
Some drivers who are in a hurry or driving distracted may slow down at an intersection but never fully stop at the red light before turning right. This reduces the time available to spot any hazards. Such a driver may mistakenly miss an approaching vehicle and cause a collision, which can result in severe injuries.
Visibility Issues
Some intersections have reduced visibility when it comes to seeing everyone who is approaching. In addition, parked vehicles, poor lighting, heavy rain, or blind corners can block a driver’s view of oncoming pedestrians, cyclists, or cars. Let’s say a driver’s view is blocked by a large delivery van parked near the corner. If the driver ventures forth and turns right anyway causing a collision, they could be held liable for injuries sustained.
Misjudging Speed or Distance
Even if drivers notice other vehicles or pedestrians, they may sometimes misjudge how fast they’re approaching or how far away they are. They may assume they have enough time to turn but find out they’re wrong when a collision occurs.
Ignoring “No Turn on Red” Signs
Some drivers may miss or disregard posted “No Turn on Red” signs, assuming they can always turn. This can increase the risk of an accident.
How Can a Car Accident Attorney Help?
If you’ve been injured in an accident involving a right turn on red, contact us at Shapiro, Washburn, & Sharp. We specialize in personal injury cases and have a proven track record of helping clients recover the compensation they deserve.
Our team will thoroughly investigate your case, gather necessary evidence, and ensure your rights are protected, as we did for this teenage pedestrian who was hit by a car while attempting to cross Virginia Beach Boulevard. We helped secure a $100,000 settlement for him and his godmother.
Our firm also has offices in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Suffolk, Hampton, Portsmouth, and Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.
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Andrew Stover limits his law practice exclusively to personal injury law. Andrew is a member of the American Association for Justice, the Virginia Trial Lawyers Association, and the Virginia Beach Bar Association.
