New Rule on Right Turns at Red Lights in Texas: Everything Texas Drivers Need to Know

TEXAS (DDN) – In light of an increase in pedestrian accidents and safety concerns, current discussions on traffic laws in Texas have focused on the Right Turn on Red (RTOR) law. Texas still allows cars to turn right on red as long as they stop completely and give way to any approaching traffic or pedestrians.

Right Turn at Red Light in Texas

Texas law requires drivers to follow certain rules while making a right turn on red:

• Complete Stop: Before making the turn, drivers must stop at the specified limit line, crosswalk, or intersection.
• Yielding: After coming to a halt, drivers must give way to pedestrians and other vehicles that have the right of way.
• No Turn on Red Signs: Drivers should be mindful of intersections that may have signs that restrict turning right on red.

Worries and Possible Modifications

Due to the increased number of accidents, safety advocates are requesting that the RTOR rule be revisited in several jurisdictions. Because of safety concerns, some cities in other states have already implemented regulations prohibiting right turns at red lights.

In Texas, certain intersections already prohibit right turns on red (RTOR). For example, RTOR is prohibited at Tyler’s Highway 64 and West Loop 323.

The Future of RTOR in Texas

There are currently no plans to institute a statewide ban on RTOR in Texas. However, if the number of incidents continues to rise, discussions about pedestrian safety may result in revisions to traffic laws. The general public is increasingly supportive of putting pedestrian safety ahead of traditional driving standards.

Advocates argue that eliminating the right turn on red (RTOR) regulation could reduce the amount of incidents involving bicycles and pedestrians, especially in places with high foot traffic.

Final Words

To recap, while Texas’ current statute allows right turns on red under certain scenarios, there are growing safety concerns that may lead to future changes to the law to improve pedestrian safety at crossings. Drivers are recommended to remain attentive and prioritize safety when dealing with these situations.

In light of an increase in pedestrian accidents and safety concerns, current discussions on traffic laws in Texas have focused on the Right Turn on Red (RTOR) law. Texas still allows cars to turn right on red as long as they stop completely and give way to any approaching traffic or pedestrians.