Right Turn On Red
At most intersections, drivers are allowed to make a right hand turn on a red light. This means turning right after coming to a complete stop when the signal is red. You must obey traffic signs and understand the basic rules to ensure your own safety and the safety of others.
Are right turns on red allowed? Look carefully at the signs.
Some intersections and cities restrict turning right on a red light. For example, in Montreal, you are not allowed to turn right on a red light.
Right turns on red may be prohibited at all times
For safety reasons, turning right on red is prohibited at all times at intersections that are deemed dangerous. A traffic sign indicates the prohibition.
Right turns on red may be prohibited during specific periods
If the prohibition concerns a particular time of day or specific days or months, a tab is added below the first sign.
How to turn right on a red light
- Stop
- Coming to a full stop is mandatory.
- Come to a stop behind the stop line or pedestrian crossing.
- Remember, a pedestrian who is authorized to enter the intersection has the right of way.
- Look
- Make sure you are allowed to make a right turn on a red light.
- Yield the right of way to pedestrians or to road vehicles and cyclists that have entered or are about to enter the intersection.
- Look in your right rearview mirror and check your right blind spot to make sure no pedestrians or cyclists are present.
- Decide
- You are not required to turn right at a red light. If you decide to do so, you can turn when the lane is free of traffic.
Who has the right of way where turning right on red is allowed?
You must come to a full stop and yield the right of way to pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles that:
- have already entered the intersection
- are about to enter the intersection
This rule applies to motorists, cyclists, motorcyclists, truck drivers, etc.
Turning right at a red light is a privilege, not an obligation