Can You Turn Right on Red in Texas? What You Have to Know

When it comes to Texas traffic laws, one question arises: Can you turn right on red in Texas? The short answer is yes—drivers may make the turn, but only after coming to a full stop and yielding to both pedestrians and oncoming vehicles. What may look like a simple maneuver can quickly become complicated if a “No Turn on Red” sign is posted or the driver misjudges the traffic flow.

At Anderson, Cummings & Drawhorn, we recognize that these rules are far more than technical traffic codes—they can be the difference between a safe trip and a devastating collision. Our firm is committed to fighting for those injured by careless drivers through their legal options with clarity and determination.

Texas Traffic Laws and Right Turns on Red

In Texas, right-on-red rules are defined by the Texas Transportation Code §544.007. A driver facing a steady red signal must stop at the clearly marked stop line; if none exists, stop before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection.

The vehicle must remain stopped until the intersection can be entered safely. The driver may turn right after stopping and yielding the right-of-way to pedestrians lawfully in the crosswalk and to other traffic lawfully using the intersection. A left turn on red is permitted only when both intersecting streets are one-way. State, municipal, or county authorities may prohibit turns on red by posting a notice at the intersection.

This law balances traffic efficiency with safety. By requiring a complete stop, it prevents “rolling rights” that put pedestrians and cyclists in danger. It also gives drivers time to judge whether vehicles approaching from the left or crossing the intersection have the right of way.

Exceptions to Right Turn on Red in Texas

Although the rule generally allows the maneuver, several exceptions apply:

• Posted “No Turn on Red” Signs: Municipalities often place these signs at busy intersections with heavy pedestrian traffic or poor visibility. Ignoring one can result in a citation and liability if a collision occurs.
• Red Arrow Signals: A solid red arrow prohibits turns in that direction. Even if the light is red for other lanes, a red arrow remains binding until it changes.
• Unsafe Conditions: Even without a sign, a driver cannot lawfully turn right on red if pedestrians are in the crosswalk or if approaching traffic makes the turn unsafe.

These exceptions show that drivers must use judgment in addition to following signals. For those injured by a driver who failed to yield while turning on red, these exceptions often provide a clear basis for proving negligence.

Steps to Take if a Driver Turning Right on Red in Texas Injures You

Unfortunately, crashes at intersections remain common. When a motorist rushes through a red light or fails to yield, the consequences can be severe. If you are struck by someone attempting a right turn on red, here are critical steps to take:

• Call emergency services to ensure injuries are treated and an official accident report is created.
• Document the scene with photos of the vehicles, traffic signals, posted signs, and any visible injuries.
• Collect witness information since independent accounts can support your claim.
• Preserve evidence such as dash cam footage, often clarifying whether the driver entirely stopped.
• Seek medical evaluation even for seemingly minor injuries, as some conditions may develop later.

These actions help protect your health and strengthen any future compensation claim.

When to Contact a Lawyer

After a crash caused by a right turn on red, many victims face mounting medical bills, time away from work, and aggressive tactics from insurers. These companies often minimize payouts by claiming that both parties contributed to the crash. Questions such as “Can you turn right on red in Texas?” frequently come up in these disputes, and knowing how the law applies can make all the difference.

At Anderson, Cummings & Drawhorn, we know how to challenge those strategies. Our team acts quickly to:

• Review accident and police reports for key details.
• Interview witnesses and preserve evidence like dash cam footage.
• Analyze traffic-signal data to show who had the right of way.
• Apply Texas traffic laws to hold negligent drivers accountable.

We fight to protect your recovery while you focus on healing.

Talk to Anderson, Cummings & Drawhorn Today

At Anderson, Cummings & Drawhorn, we combine decades of courtroom experience with a commitment to holding negligent drivers accountable. Call us today at 817-920-9000 for a free consultation or complete our online case review form.

Meet John Cummings

As a Fort Worth native and a double-Board Certified trial lawyer, John Cummings is dedicated to fighting for the rights of the injured. With a track record that includes record-setting verdicts and multi-million dollar settlements, he is an aggressive advocate who isn’t afraid to take on tough cases.

• Named a Top Personal Injury Lawyer by Fort Worth, Texas magazine.
• Recognized as a Texas Super Lawyer since 2003.
• Holds two Board Certifications in Personal Injury Trial Law and Civil Trial Law.

Free case consultation call us at (817) 920-9000