Understanding Texas Right-on-Red Laws
Texas traffic law permits drivers to turn right on red in Texas unless a posted sign expressly prohibits it. Before making a right turn on red, the vehicle must come to a complete stop behind the limit line or crosswalk. The driver must then yield to all cross traffic and pedestrians with the right-of-way. Once the intersection is clear and it is safe, the driver may proceed with the right turn.
Legal Conditions for Turning Right on Red in Texas
Texas Transportation Code § 544.007 outlines when a motorist can lawfully turn right on red in Texas:
- The vehicle must be at a full stop
- There must be no posted signage stating “No Turn on Red.”
- The turn must be made from the rightmost lane into the rightmost lane
- The path must be free of oncoming vehicles and pedestrians
Situations Where Right-on-Red Is Prohibited
Drivers must be aware of specific scenarios when turning right on red is not allowed:
- A visible “No Turn on Red” sign is posted at the intersection
- A red arrow traffic signal is displayed, which overrides general red light rules
- Turning would endanger a pedestrian crossing the street
- The intersection has poor visibility or blind corners
When you are not allowed to turn right on red in Texas, the traffic violation can result in a ticket or serve as evidence against you in a car accident injury claim.
Consequences of Improper Right Turns on Red Lights in Texas
Improper right turns at red lights can carry legal and financial consequences. Penalties may include:
- Traffic tickets can cost $214 to $234 in Houston
- Infractions will be listed on your driver’s record
- Increased insurance premiums
- The violation of the law can be evidence of negligence in a car accident case.
Injury accidents caused by an illegal turn right on red in Texas can expose the driver to claims for damages, medical bills, and lost wages.
Pedestrian Safety in Texas
Turning right on red without being fully aware of pedestrian traffic is a leading contributor to intersection-related accidents. Texas law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. Drivers must check both directions, especially where crosswalk signals allow pedestrians to cross while drivers wait at red lights.
Injuring a pedestrian in a right-turn accident can result in serious civil penalties and potential criminal charges, depending on the severity.
Best Practices When Turning Right on Red
To ensure safety and avoid violations, Texas drivers should adopt these habits:
- Always stop fully before the white line or crosswalk
- Look left, right, and then left again before proceeding
- Check mirrors and blind spots for cyclists or pedestrians
- Wait for adequate clearing time in both traffic and crosswalks
- Only turn when safe, even if there is no opposing traffic
Cautious and defensive driving prevents accidents and shields drivers from liability.
Accidents Caused by Illegal Right Turns on Red
Victims injured by drivers who made improper right turns may pursue legal action. Common causes of these accidents include:
- Rolling through red lights without stopping
- Failing to see or yield to pedestrians
- Misjudging vehicle speeds or distances
- Turning from the wrong lane
Those injured can seek compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost income, and vehicle damage.
What to Do After an Accident Involving a Right Turn on Red
After any traffic accident involving a red-light right turn:
- Call law enforcement and request an official crash report
- Take photos and get witness information
- Don’t admit fault
- Seek medical care promptly, even for minor symptoms
- Contact an attorney experienced in personal injury cases
An experienced personal injury lawyer in Houston can help protect your rights and build a strong case if the other driver’s illegal turn right on red in Texas was the cause of your injuries.
When to Contact a Texas Car Accident Attorney
If you were injured because another driver made an unsafe right turn on red, you may be entitled to compensation. An attorney can investigate the crash and determine who is at fault. They can gather traffic camera footage if it is available. They will also negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
Contact the Baumgartner Law Firm for a Consultation Without Cost on Houston Injury Accident Claims
Contact the Houston personal injury law firm of Baumgartner Law Firm at (281) 587-1111.
Baumgartner Law Firm
6711 Cypress Creek Pkwy
Houston, TX, 77069
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