unless there is a No Turn on Red sign posted. You must come to a full stop before entering the intersection and yield the right of way to all oncoming traffic or pedestrians.

One of the first things we’re all told when learning about traffic safety is that red means stop. That being said, the specifics vary from state to state as to when (or if) you are allowed to turn on a red light.

An illegal turn on red could have some dire consequences, so it’s important that you know the details regarding the laws where you are and where you might travel to.

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Can you turn right on red in New Jersey?

Generally speaking, yes. Unless there is a sign posted that specifically specifies “No Turn on Red,” right turns on red are legal in New Jersey.

According to Section 39:4-115 of the

New Jersey Statutes

, you may turn right on red as long as you:

Come to a full stop before entering the intersection

Yield the right of way to all oncoming traffic and pedestrians

Make your turn as close as is feasible to the right-hand curb or roadway edge

In short, if you don’t see a sign that specifically prohibits it, you can make a right turn on red in New Jersey as long as you make a complete stop and yield the right of way.

If it’s a flashing red light, the laws are the same: come to a full stop, look for traffic, and yield the right of way.

What about left turns on red?

New Jersey is one of the few states that prohibit turning left on red in any circumstances, even if it's from and to a one-way street. In spite of the fact that there may be no traffic present, you must wait until the light turns green.

Key Takeaway You can turn right on red as long as there’s no sign posted, but be sure to yield to all pedestrians and other drivers. Left turns on red are never permitted in New Jersey.

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Penalties for an illegal right turn on red in New Jersey

Most of the time it’s legal to turn right on red, but if you are caught making a turn where it’s prohibited (or failing to safely make a right on red) you could potentially get a traffic ticket.

The penalties for an illegal or unsafe right on red will vary according to the circumstances, but the fine can be anywhere from $52 to $202. Additionally, you can also get three points on your driver’s license. It’s not common, but in some cases, the penalty can also include up to 15 days in jail. Circumstances that might increase the severity of penalty are:

Failure to yield to other drivers or pedestrians

Failure to come to a complete stop

If anyone was killed or injured as a result of your illegal turn

Under the

New Jersey Points Schedule

, getting six or more points in a three-year period can lead to a surcharge. Getting 12 or more points can result in a suspended license.

Not only will making an illegal turn cost you in fines and points, but it will also lead to

increased insurance premiums

. Insurance companies see folks with traffic infractions on their records as higher risk and charge more to insure them as a result.

MORE:

Does running a red light increase your car insurance rates?

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