Do you ever feel the frustration of waiting at a red light when there’s no oncoming traffic and you just want to make a quick right turn? Well, the good news is that Oregon law allows right turns on red lights after coming to a complete stop and yielding the right of way to oncoming traffic and pedestrians. This can significantly improve traffic flow and reduce wait times at intersections.
This blog article will serve as a comprehensive guide for understanding the right turn on red rule in Oregon. We’ll delve into the specifics of when it’s allowed, when it’s prohibited, and how to make safe right turns on red.
Understanding the Right Turn on Red Rule in Oregon
The core principle of the right turn on red rule in Oregon is simple: you can make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop and yielding the right of way to all oncoming traffic and pedestrians. However, there are situations where this maneuver is not allowed, and understanding these exceptions is crucial for avoiding violations and accidents.
Here’s a breakdown of the key points:
When it’s Allowed:
- The stop line (if present) or the marked crosswalk (if there’s no stop line).
- You’ve yielded the right of way to all oncoming traffic from all directions, including those turning left. This means waiting for any vehicles approaching from the opposite direction to clear the intersection completely before proceeding with your turn.
- You’ve yielded the right of way to pedestrians crossing the street in the direction you intend to turn. Be extra cautious and allow ample time for pedestrians, especially children or those with mobility limitations, to cross safely.
- Bicycles are also considered pedestrians when they are in a crosswalk. Yield to them as you would to any other pedestrian.
When it’s Prohibited:
Even though the general rule allows right turns on red, there are certain situations where it’s strictly prohibited. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Posted Signs: Specific intersections might have signs explicitly prohibiting right turns on red. These signs could be due to safety concerns related to limited visibility, heavy pedestrian traffic, or complex lane configurations. Always obey these signs and come to a complete stop at the red light, even if there’s no apparent oncoming traffic.
- Yellow Light: A yellow light is a warning signal that the red light is about to turn. It’s not a green light to proceed with your turn, especially if you haven’t come to a complete stop yet. Slamming on your brakes or attempting a risky maneuver to make the turn on yellow can lead to accidents. Treat a yellow light as a caution to stop safely, and wait for the red light before considering a right turn.
- Unclear Intersection: If the intersection has limited visibility due to buildings, foliage, or poorly marked lanes, avoid making a right turn on red. Proceed with caution, come to a complete stop, and only turn when you have a clear view of oncoming traffic and pedestrians in all directions.
Yielding the Right of Way
Yielding the right of way is paramount when making a right turn on red. Here’s a closer look at what that entails:
- Oncoming Traffic: As mentioned earlier, you must yield to all oncoming traffic from all directions, including those turning left. Don’t assume a left-turning vehicle will stop just because you have a green turn arrow. Make sure they have cleared the intersection completely before proceeding.
- Pedestrians in Crosswalks: Pedestrians always have the right of way in crosswalks, regardless of the traffic light signal. Look out for pedestrians crossing in the direction you intend to turn and give them ample time to cross safely before making your turn.
- Bicycles: Remember, bicycles are considered pedestrians when they are in a marked crosswalk. Yield to them as you would to any other pedestrian.
Conclusion
Understanding the right turn on red rule in Oregon can significantly improve your driving experience and contribute to a smoother flow of traffic. Remember, the key points are:
By following these guidelines and exercising caution, you can navigate right turns on red in Oregon safely and efficiently. Remember, safe driving practices benefit everyone on the road.
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