Drivers in Mississippi
are permitted to make a right turn at a red light provided there are no posted signs that say otherwise. In order to make a right turn at a red light, you must first come to a complete stop and yield the right-of-way to traffic and pedestrians. Skipping the wait at a red light is a huge time saver, which is why most states permit drivers to make right turns at red lights. Mississippi has specific laws you must follow when making a right-on-red turn to protect yourself, other drivers, and pedestrians.
To learn how to make a proper right-on-red turn in Mississippi, as well as what the penalties are if you do so illegally, follow this guide.
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Yes, it is legal to make a right turn after you stop at a red light in Mississippi. To do so legally, there are a few specific rules you need to keep in mind.
Under section 63-3-309 of the Mississippi statues, you can make a right at a steady red light if:
You first make a complete stop
There are not any posted “No Turn On Red” signs
You yield the right-of-way to traffic and pedestrians
You make the turn cautiously
So unless there is no sign that says otherwise, you’re allowed to make cautious right-on-red turns. Be sure to stop and check for pedestrians before starting your turn.
If you approach a red light with a green arrow, you need to stop unless you are driving in the direction of the arrow.
If you come upon a flashing red light, you need to stop and treat the flashing light as if it is a stop sign.
MORE: How to react if your car makes noise when turning
What about left turns on red?
Mississippi law does allow you to make left turns at a red light, but only in specific circumstances. You must be traveling on a one-way road and turning onto another one-way road for it to be legal.
You still need to yield the right of way and be extra cautious if you do choose to make this maneuver.
Key Takeaway You’re allowed to make a right-on-red turn in Mississippi as long as there is no sign posted that states otherwise.
Penalties for an illegal right turn on red in Mississippi
Although making a right turn at a red light is legal in Mississippi, there are still a few ways to earn a red light violation. The most obvious is attempting a right turn at a red light while there is a sign posted that says “No Turn On Red.”
Beyond that, you could also be given a ticket if you don’t make a complete stop or you don’t yield to pedestrians. In Mississippi, a red light violation is classified as a misdemeanor and you’ll face:
A maximum of $100 in fines and up to 10 days of jail time for your first offense.
A maximum of $200 in fines and up to 20 days of jail time for your second offense within one year.
A maximum of $500 in fines and up to six months of jail time for your third offense within one year.
If you want to avoid any driving violations
, make sure you keep your eye out for any posted signs and that you’re careful when turning right on a red. How to find affordable car insurance in Mississippi
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