Can You Turn Right on Red in South Carolina?

Posted on December 18, 2024 in Car Accidents,Rules Of The Road

If you’re asking, “Can you turn right on red in South Carolina?” the answer is generally yes — though there are some important exceptions and guidelines to keep in mind. Knowing when and how to turn right on red helps keep you and other road users safe.

South Carolina’s Right Turn on Red Law

South Carolina law generally allows motorists to make a right turn on a red light after coming to a complete stop. The pause is necessary for safety and to give time to look for other vehicles or people who may be on the road. The right-on-red rule allows for a smoother traffic flow while prioritizing intersection safety.

Exceptions and Situations When Right on Red is Prohibited in South Carolina

While right turns on red are allowed in most places, there are a few key exceptions to this rule:

• “No Turn on Red” signs – When you see a “No Turn on Red” sign, you must wait until the light changes to green to go. These signs are often posted at high-traffic intersections, areas with limited visibility, or places with frequent pedestrian crossings.
• Red arrow signals – Occasionally, a red right-turn arrow will replace the standard red light. The red arrow prohibits turning until the light changes.
• School zones and high pedestrian areas – These areas tend to be restricted due to their high pedestrian traffic. The ability to turn right is typically restricted during certain hours when foot traffic is lower, so be alert for signs indicating additional restrictions.

It’s important to know and follow these right-on-red rules, as they enhance safety in areas with additional risks.

How Right on Red Violations Affect Car Accident Liability in SC

Ignoring the rules for turning right on red can have serious legal consequences, especially in an accident. Violation of a traffic safety law is typically considered to be negligence per se. In other words, a driver who makes an improper right turn on red and causes a collision may be liable for any resulting injuries, medical bills, vehicle repairs, lost income, and other expenses for the injured party.

In addition, South Carolina operates under a comparative negligence system, meaning fault is divided based on the way each involved party contributed to causing an accident. An injured party who is less to blame for an accident than other parties could still recover some compensation. That means a driver who gets in an accident while making an unsafe right turn on red is not necessarily barred from recovery.

Talk to Our Experienced South Carolina Car Accident Lawyer Today

If you’ve been in an accident involving a right-on-red violation – whether as the driver who made the turn or the other party involved – it’s a good idea to seek legal guidance. An experienced South Carolina car accident lawyer at The Melonakos Law Firm can clarify how right-on-red laws affect liability, assess your options, and assist with your car accident case.

The Melonakos Law Firm is here to help you fight for accountability and compensation after a car crash that was not your fault. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a South Carolina car accident attorney at our firm.