Turning right on red in Michigan
is legal, as long as you come to a full stop at the light and make sure there isn’t a no turn on red sign posted. You must also grant the right of way to any pedestrians, cyclists, or drivers at the intersection. In every driving scenario, when you see a red light—you stop. While you’re legally permitted to make a right on red in Michigan, you cannot do so at every traffic light. And if you make an illegal right turn on red, you could end up with a ticket.
Can you turn right on red in Michigan?
According to Michigan state law section 257.612
, drivers are permitted to turn right on red as long as: The vehicle stops before entering the intersection
The vehicle has yielded the right of way
to pedestrians, bicyclists, and other traffic lawfully using the intersection There is no sign prohibiting a turn on red
The best thing you can do if you’re planning to make a right on red is to take your time. Stop and look around to determine whether any no turn on red signs are posted. Do not turn until the intersection is clear of other vehicles or pedestrians.
If you are approaching a flashing red light, treat this as you would a stop sign. Come to a complete stop, grant the right of way to another driver if they arrive at the intersection before you, then proceed with caution.
What about left turns on red?
In Michigan, you can only turn left at a red light if you’re turning onto a one-way street. In this situation, you must again follow the standard right-of-way rules so that you make the turn safely.
Key Takeaway Make sure you use caution when you approach a red light with the intention to turn left. Yield the right of way to drivers traveling straight through the intersection as well as pedestrians and cyclists.
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Start earning nowPenalties for an illegal right turn on red in Michigan
If you make a right turn on red in an unauthorized area or cause an accident while doing so, you should expect to be handed a ticket. The fine may be up to $100. On top of that, a conviction of this civil infraction will result in two demerit points added to your driving record
. Accumulating an excessive amount of demerit points against your driver’s license may result in a suspended license
. Keep in mind that having a license suspension on your record will almost certainly cause your car insurance
premium to rise by an average of $120.25 per month. You may also be required to carry SR-22 insurance in Michigan
before getting your license reinstated.
“My speeding ticket raised my insurance to $310/month. Jerry
got me full comprehensive coverage on two vehicles for $144/month through Progressive. I definitely recommend giving them a try.” —Brandon D.