As of 2025, the right turn on red law in South Carolina remains mostly unchanged. Drivers can continue to make right turns at red lights, provided they follow certain safety guidelines. This long-standing rule aims to improve traffic flow while ensuring safety at intersections.
Right Turn on Red: What the Law Says
General Permission
South Carolina allows right turns on red, except where signs explicitly prohibit them.
Mandatory Stop Requirement
Before making a turn, drivers must come to a complete stop behind the:
- Stop line
- Crosswalk
- Intersection
Proceeding without stopping can lead to fines or penalties.
Yielding Requirements
Drivers must yield the right-of-way to:
- Pedestrians legally in or near the crosswalk.
- Other vehicles lawfully passing through the intersection.
- Bicyclists and other non-motorized traffic.
Checking all directions before turning is essential to prevent accidents.
Exceptions & Special Cases
1. “No Turn on Red” Signs
If a “No Turn on Red” sign is present, drivers must wait for a green light before proceeding.
2. Red Arrows
Unlike many states, South Carolina does not prohibit right turns on red arrows. However, drivers should proceed with extreme caution in these cases.
3. Pedestrian Signals
Even if the traffic light is red, drivers must yield to pedestrians with an active walk signal. Ignoring this rule can result in fines and liability if an accident occurs.
Safety Concerns: Risks of Turning Right on Red
While the law allows right turns on red, it comes with certain dangers, particularly for vulnerable road users. Some risks include:
- Pedestrian accidents when drivers fail to check crosswalks.
- Bicycle collisions due to blind spots or misjudgment.
- Sideswipe crashes involving other vehicles.
- Blocked crosswalks when drivers stop improperly.
To reduce these risks, drivers should:
- Check blind spots for pedestrians and cyclists.
- Look in all directions before proceeding.
- Avoid rushing the turn, even if traffic is clear.
- Stay alert for pedestrians, especially in urban areas.
Legal Consequences of Violating the Law
Failing to follow right turn on red regulations can lead to legal and financial repercussions:
1. Traffic Violations
- Fines and penalties for improper turns.
- Points added to the driver’s record.
2. Liability in Accidents
- Drivers making illegal or unsafe right turns on red may be held responsible for accidents.
- Insurance claims may increase due to at-fault violations.
3. Comparative Negligence in South Carolina
South Carolina follows a comparative negligence system. This means that liability in an accident can be shared between drivers, pedestrians, or cyclists. A driver who improperly turns right on red may be found partially or fully at fault.
South Carolina’s right turn on red rule is designed to improve traffic flow while maintaining safety at intersections. However, drivers must be cautious, yield the right-of-way, and watch for pedestrians and cyclists.
While convenient, this law carries risks, and failure to follow regulations can lead to fines, accidents, and legal consequences. As traffic patterns evolve, South Carolina may review or adjust its right turn on red policies to enhance safety in high-risk areas.