The “Right Turn on Red” rule allows drivers in West Virginia to make a right turn at a red traffic signal, but only if certain conditions are met. It’s important to follow these rules to avoid violations and ensure safety for yourself and others on the road. Here’s everything you need to know about the rule and the key updates for 2025.
What is the Right Turn on Red Rule?
In West Virginia, you are allowed to make a right turn at a red light under the following conditions:
Full Stop Required: Before turning, you must come to a complete stop at the crosswalk or stop line. Rolling through a red light is no longer tolerated and will result in a violation.
Yielding: After stopping, you must yield to any oncoming traffic and pedestrians who are lawfully in the intersection or crosswalk. Always check that the intersection is clear before turning.
Signage: Right turns on red are not allowed in certain situations, specifically when there is a “No Turn on Red” sign or when a red arrow signal is displayed. In these cases, you must wait for the light to turn green before proceeding.
Key 2025 Updates
West Virginia made several important changes to the Right Turn on Red rule in 2025 to improve road safety and clarify enforcement:
Mandatory Complete Stop: Rolling through a red light before making a right turn is now strictly enforced. Drivers must fully stop and look for vehicles or pedestrians before turning.
Increased Signage: Many intersections have added new signs to clearly indicate whether right turns on red are allowed or prohibited. Look out for signs that say “No Turn on Red” or red arrow signals that require you to wait for a green light.
Expanded Prohibitions: More intersections, especially those with heavy pedestrian traffic or complicated road patterns, now prohibit right turns on red. These intersections are clearly marked with signs to help drivers avoid violating the rule.
When is a Right Turn on Red Not Allowed?
There are specific situations when you are not allowed to turn right on red:
“No Turn on Red” Signs: If there is a sign that says “No Turn on Red,” you must wait for the green light to proceed.
Red Arrow Signals: A right turn is not permitted when there is a red arrow. You must wait until the arrow turns green.
Pedestrians in the Crosswalk: Always yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk, even if the intersection appears clear. Their safety comes first.
Penalties for Violations
Failing to follow the Right Turn on Red rule can lead to serious consequences, including:
Traffic Tickets and Fines: If you make a right turn on red when it’s prohibited, or fail to make a complete stop, you may receive a ticket and fine.
Points on Your Driving Record: Violations can result in points added to your driving record, which can impact your driving history.
Increased Insurance Premiums: Traffic violations may cause your insurance premiums to rise due to the added risk.
Liability for Accidents: If you cause an accident by making an illegal right turn on red, you may be held liable for damages or injuries.
Safe Driving Tips
Make a Complete Stop: Always stop fully at red lights before turning right, even if you think the way is clear.
Watch for New Signs: Keep an eye out for new signage at intersections, especially if you’re driving in an unfamiliar area or haven’t driven there in a while.
Yield to Pedestrians and Oncoming Traffic: Always check for pedestrians in the crosswalk and yield to oncoming vehicles before making a right turn.
When in Doubt, Wait It Out: If you’re unsure whether a right turn on red is allowed, it’s safer to remain stopped until the light turns green.
Sources:
1. https://www.forbeslawwv.com/2025/06/24/when-can-you-turn-right-on-a-red-light/
2. https://wvpublic.org/new-law-requires-w-va-drivers-to-move-over-slow-down/
3. https://wvmetronews.com/2025/07/09/new-move-over-law-takes-effect-this-week/
