To get through traffic lights safely and easily, you need to know the rules of right-of-way. You can read about South Carolina’s “right turn on red” rule in 2024 in this article. It also has any new information and important safety tips.
Right Turn on Red: How It Works
The right turn on red rule says that drivers can turn right on a red light as long as they stop and let people in the crossing and coming traffic go ahead of them.
It is the job of this rule, which is different in every U.S. state, to improve traffic flow and keep people safe. But it is very important to know what the rules are in each state and what the exceptions are.
How to Understand South Carolina’s “Right Turn on Red Rule”
The South Carolina Code of Laws part 56-5-55(b) says you can turn right on a red light:
If this part doesn’t say otherwise, a driver of a car facing a steady red light at an intersection can turn right on red as long as they stop completely and give way to people crossing the street legally and other moving legally through the intersection. They do have to give way to legal cars using the street in between, though.
Important points:
- Don’t turn at all; just stop.
- Give way to all people crossing the sidewalk, even if they haven’t started.
- Give way to all passing cars, even those turning left.
Keep an eye out for signs that say you can’t make a right turn on a red light at certain streets.
Exceptions and unique situations
When the light is red, you can’t make a right turn:
- At crossings with signs that say “Do Not Turn Right on Red,”
- When a red arrow shows that a different lane is ready to turn right.
- When bright lights are turned on in school zones.
- Where it’s impossible to see, making it dangerous to move forward.
New information and changes for 2024
South Carolina’s “right turn on red” rule hasn’t moved much since February 2024. But you should always check the website for the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles to see if anything has changed.
Whenever you turn right on red, safety should always come first:
- Wait until you hear three claps before moving forward.
- Make good use of your mirrors and turn signs.
- Give way to people on foot, bikes, and cars, even if they look far away.
- Be extra careful at crossroads where it’s hard to see or where there are a lot of people walking.
- If you don’t know what to do or feel nervous, never turn on red.
In conclusion
You need to know and follow South Carolina’s “right turn on red” rule if you want to drive quickly and safely. Always think about safety first, let other people go first, and know what the rules are in case of an emergency.
