When can you turn right on a red light?

The ability to turn right on a red light in Massachusetts is predicated on the absence of designated signage indicating that such a turn is prohibited. This means that if there is no "no turn on red" sign at the intersection, drivers are permitted to make a right turn after coming to a complete stop at the red light, provided it is safe to do so.

While safety and traffic conditions are crucial when executing a right turn on red, the determining factor legally that allows the turn is the presence or absence of the prohibitive signage. If a driver encounters signage that explicitly states they cannot turn right on red, they are required to obey that directive regardless of other conditions that might suggest a turn would be safe.

Understanding this regulation helps ensure compliance with traffic laws and promotes safer driving practices by encouraging drivers to be vigilant about signage at intersections.