Ohio has recently updated its laws regarding red lights and right turns, introducing new rules that all drivers should understand to stay compliant and safe on the road. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the current regulations, the recent changes, and practical advice for motorists.
Right Turn on Red: The Basics
- In Ohio, drivers are generally permitted to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop, unless signage at the intersection specifically prohibits it.
- You must yield to all pedestrians lawfully within the crosswalk and to any vehicles that have the right-of-way in the intersection.
- The law distinguishes between a solid red circle and a red arrow:
- Solid Red Circle: Right turns are allowed after stopping and yielding.
- Red Arrow: Right turns are not permitted when facing a red arrow.
Key Steps for a Legal Right Turn on Red
- Come to a Complete Stop: Always stop at the marked stop line, or before entering the crosswalk or intersection if no line is present.
- Check for Prohibitive Signs: Look for posted signs that may prohibit right turns on red at certain intersections or during specific hours.
- Yield Appropriately: Give the right-of-way to pedestrians and oncoming vehicles before turning.
- Proceed with Caution: Only turn when it is safe to do so, ensuring you do not interfere with other road users.
Local and Time-Based Restrictions
Some Ohio cities, such as Cleveland, have additional restrictions. For example, right turns on red may be prohibited at certain intersections during specific hours (e.g., 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on weekdays), and these restrictions will be clearly posted at the intersection. Always check for local ordinances and signage.
New Law on Malfunctioning Red Lights
A significant recent change in Ohio law addresses situations where a traffic signal is malfunctioning or fails to detect your vehicle:
- If you encounter a red light that does not change due to a malfunction or faulty vehicle detector, you may proceed through the intersection after stopping and exercising ordinary care.
- You must:
- Stop completely at the intersection.
- Yield to all other vehicles and pedestrians.
- Proceed only when it is safe, using sound judgment.
- The law does not specify a minimum wait time before proceeding, leaving it to the driver’s reasonable judgment.
- If an accident occurs, the burden of proof is on the driver to show the light was malfunctioning.
Safety and Liability Concerns
- Authorities and driving instructors caution that this new rule is not a free pass to run red lights. Drivers must be able to justify their decision if stopped or involved in a collision.
- If a driver proceeds through a red light and causes an accident, they may be found at fault unless they can prove the light was malfunctioning.
- Intersections are high-risk areas for crashes, so extra caution is advised, especially when making right turns on red or dealing with malfunctioning signals.
Ohio Right Turn on Red Rules
| Situation | Is Right Turn Allowed? | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Solid Red Circle | Yes | Stop, yield to pedestrians/vehicles, turn if safe |
| Red Arrow | No | Must wait for green arrow |
| Posted “No Turn on Red” Sign | No | Obey posted restrictions |
| Malfunctioning Red Light | Yes (if safe) | Stop, yield, proceed with caution |
| Local/Time-based Restrictions | Varies | Obey local signs and ordinances |
Practical Tips for Drivers
- Always stop and look carefully before turning right on red.
- Double-check for motorcycles and bicycles, as they are harder to see and may be approaching faster than expected.
- Be aware of local rules and posted signs, especially in urban areas.
- If you encounter a non-responsive red light, wait a reasonable amount of time, ensure it is safe, and proceed with caution-document the situation if possible in case you need to explain your actions later.
By understanding and following these rules, Ohio drivers can make safer decisions at intersections and avoid costly tickets or accidents.
Sources:
- https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-4511.13
- https://www.news5cleveland.com/news/local-news/oh-cuyahoga/what-drivers-need-to-know-about-ohios-new-red-light-law
- https://www.rittgers.com/blog/2017/01/ohios-new-red-light-law/
- https://www.leejohnsonlegal.com/blog/2019/01/the-facts-on-turning-right-on-a-red-light/
- https://www.oal-law.com/blog/new-ohio-law-allows-motorists-to-go-through-red-lights/
what about all of the illegals and foreigners that can’t speak or read English. Do they understand these changes?
Understanding and adhering to traffic laws is the responsibility of all drivers, regardless of their language proficiency or residency status.
I just pray they put a NO TURN on red between gas station and Roosters on Bridge St in Chillicothe.