Can You Turn Right on Red in Washington?
Right turns on red are legal in Washington wherever there is no posted sign prohibiting them.
Written by Sarah Gray
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
Throughout the state of Washington, it’s generally legal to make a right turn on a red light. Yielding to cars with the right of way and to pedestrians is still the order of the day, and right turns on red can be prohibited at individual intersections, so be sure to keep an eye out for all posted signs before you hit the gas.
Most of us are used to making right turns on a red light since it’s allowed in most states. However, not all states allow it, and others have restrictions regarding exactly how and when they can be made.
Violating the rules for a right turn on red can lead to some big penalties. That's why the
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has compiled a guide to walk you through everything you need to know before you turn right on red in the Evergreen State. (We can also find you some sweet savings on your Washington car insurance cost
down below.)
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Can you turn right on red in Washington?
Yes—usually. Right turns on red are only illegal if performed in an intersection with a sign posted prohibiting right turns.
According to
Washington state law
, drivers may turn right at a steady red light or arrow after first making a complete stop if:- There is no sign posted prohibiting such a turn
- No pedestrians or other vehicles have the right of way
- The driver is able to see traffic clearly in all directions
Flashing red lights are treated in the same manner as stop signs in Washington state, so just execute your turn once it’s your turn to go.
What about left turns on red?
Surprisingly, Washington does allow left turns on a red light onto a one-way street. As usual, be sure to come to a complete stop first and check that you’re not impeding anyone else’s right of way.
Key Takeaway Right turns on red are allowed unless a sign is posted prohibiting them, and left turns on red can be executed onto one-way streets.
Penalties for an illegal right turn on red in Washington
If you perform an illegal right turn on red in Washington, you’ll be hit with a maximum fine of $48 plus any administrative fees.
While the offense will not be recorded on your driving record, as with any traffic infraction, if your insurance company finds out, you can expect your insurance premium to go up. Practicing safe driving and keeping a clean driving record are the best ways to keep your premiums low.
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How to find affordable car insurance in Washington
Knowing and following traffic laws is one of the best ways to keep your insurance premiums low, but
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