When is it permissible to turn right on a red traffic light?

Turning right on a red traffic light is permissible after coming to a complete stop and yielding to any pedestrians and other vehicles that may have the right of way. This rule is in place to ensure the safety of all road users. By requiring drivers to come to a complete stop, it allows them to assess the situation, check for oncoming traffic from different directions, and ensure that pedestrians are not crossing the street before making the turn.

This approach significantly reduces the risk of collisions at intersections, as it encourages drivers to be vigilant about both traffic signals and the movements of other road users. Signaling, while an important component of safe driving, does not override the necessity of stopping and yielding to oncoming traffic or pedestrians.

Therefore, to safely and legally make a right turn at a red light, drivers must remember to stop first, evaluate the intersection, and only proceed when it is safe.