Most US states, including Michigan, have a law called “Right Turn on Red” (RTOR) that lets drivers make a right turn at a red light after stopping completely and giving way to other cars and people on the sidewalk.
The RTOR rule is meant to make traffic move better, but it needs to be carefully followed to protect drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. For safe driving, it is important to know when RTOR is allowed and when it is not.
Also, changes that might be made to Michigan’s driving laws in 2024 could make RTOR even more different.
When Can You Make a Right Turn on Red in Michigan?
If these things are true, Michigan cars can make a right turn on red:
Complete Stop: You have to stop your car all the way behind the stop line or crossing before you can turn. It is illegal and dangerous to use rolling stops.
Check for Traffic: Once you have stopped, carefully look at the traffic coming from all sides. Make sure there are not any cars coming up behind you that could hurt you if you turn.
Yield the Right-of-Way: Pedestrians who are in or about to enter the crossing have the right-of-way, as well as drivers who are close enough to make the situation dangerous. You should only take the lead when it is safe to do so.
Clear Signs: Check the intersection for any signs that are placed there. A “No Turn on Red” sign says that you can not legally turn right on red, no matter what else is going on.
Situations Where Right Turn on Red is Prohibited
Even if there is not a “No Turn on Red” sign, RTOR is still banned in these situations:
Red Arrows: If there is a red arrow in the right turn lane, you need to wait for the light to turn green before you turn.
In school zones and other marked areas, you may not be able to make a right turn on a red light during certain times. This may also be the case in other areas with a lot of foot traffic or known safety issues. Pay close attention to the signs in the area.
Pedestrian Safety and Right Turn on Red
Anyone crossing at an intersection has the right of way, not you, even if you are properly making an RTOR. Drivers need to do the following:
- Stop Completely:Â Yield fully to any pedestrians within the crosswalk or demonstrating an intention to cross.
- Check Blind Spots:Â Be mindful of pedestrians who may be less visible, especially those approaching from your right side.
- Avoid Blocking Crosswalks: Don’t inch forward into the crosswalk while waiting to turn, as this obstructs pedestrian movement.
Potential Changes in the 2024 Traffic Rule Update
When Michigan’s traffic rules are updated in 2024, the rules about “Right Turn on Red” might change. Changes that could happen are:
Expanded Restrictions: RTOR may be limited in new ways at busy intersections, places where it is hard to see, or places where crashes have happened in the past between cars turning and people walking or riding bikes.
Changes Based on Technology: New traffic control systems using sensors or cameras could be put in place to make RTOR more flexible, lowering risks and improving traffic flow.
Safety Tips for Drivers Making Right Turns on Red
Safety is paramount when making a Right Turn on Red. Remember these tips:
Full Stops, Not Rolls:Â Complete stops allow you to better assess the situation before turning.
Avoid Distractions:Â Keep your full attention on the road. Cell phone use or adjusting the radio can increase the risk of missing pedestrians or approaching cars.
Look Right, Then Left:Â Check for cyclists and pedestrians approaching from your right, then scan for oncoming traffic from the left.
Don’t Assume Pedestrians See You: Even with eye contact, it’s safest to always assume pedestrians may not have noticed your vehicle.
If in Doubt, Wait: When visibility is poor or traffic is complex, it’s better to wait for the green light rather than risk an unsafe turn.
Conclusion
The Right Turn on Red rule can help clear up traffic, but only if it is followed in a safe and responsible way. Every driver in Michigan needs to know when RTOR is legal and when it is not, as well as how to properly yield to walkers.
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