Delaware’s traffic rules for 2025 clarify the right turn on red law, which remains largely unchanged but emphasizes strict adherence to safety and signage. Here’s a comprehensive summary based on the latest updates and official regulations:
Right Turn on Red: Key Rules
Full Stop Required: Drivers must come to a complete stop at the stop line, or if none exists, before entering the crosswalk or intersection.
Yield to Others: After stopping, drivers must yield the right-of-way to all pedestrians and vehicles legally crossing the intersection.
No Prohibiting Signs: Right turns on red are allowed unless a “No Turn on Red” sign is posted at the intersection.
Left Turn on Red: Left turns on red are permitted only from a one-way street onto another one-way street, after a full stop and if no sign prohibits it.
Special Signal Considerations
Circular Red Signal: A circular red signal allows a right turn after a full stop and yielding, unless otherwise prohibited.
Red Arrow Signal: A steady red arrow prohibits turns in the direction of the arrow. No right turn is allowed on a steady red arrow unless a specific traffic control device explicitly permits it, but Delaware’s regulations generally do not allow this.
Flashing Red Arrow: Requires a full stop before proceeding, similar to a stop sign.
Penalties for Violations
Fines: First-time offenders can face fines ranging from $75 to $230. Repeat violations within two years may result in fines up to $575 or even jail time.
Safety First: Ignoring these rules not only risks fines but also endangers pedestrians and other drivers.
Sources:
1. https://delawaredefensivedriving.org/delaware-traffic-signals/
2. https://delcode.delaware.gov/title21/c041/sc02/index.html
3. https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/delaware/2-Del-Admin-Code-SS-4D.22
