As of January 2025, there have been no major modifications to Maryland’s traffic rules regulating right turns on red lights. The Maryland Transportation Code Section 21-202, which describes the current law, is still in existence. The following is a complete summary of the current rule regarding right turns on red in Maryland:
In Maryland, You Can Turn Right on Red.
General Rule
In Maryland, automobiles are usually permitted to turn right at a red light after coming to a complete stop, unless there is a sign that specifically prohibits so. According to the law:
- Vehicles that are encountering a persistent red signal must first stop at:
- A stop line that is clearly designated
- If there is no stop line, you should not enter the crosswalk.
- If there is no crosswalk, you should wait until you are at the intersection.
- Drivers may proceed into the junction with caution to make a right turn after coming to a halt.
Things to Keep in Mind and Exceptions
- Prohibited Turns: If there is a sign that prohibits right turns on red, then you are not allowed to make a right turn on red.
- Yielding: Drivers must provide the right-of-way to pedestrians, bicyclists at nearby crosswalks, and any vehicles that are in or approaching the junction that could pose an immediate danger.
- Left Turns: You can only make a left turn on red if you are turning from one one-way street to another one-way one.
Concerns and Discussions Regarding Safety
Maryland has not yet made any adjustments to its right-on-red statute, however there are ongoing discussions regarding the safety consequences of this practice:
- Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety: When vehicles make right turns on red, there are concerns about the potential risks to pedestrians and cyclists.
- Pedestrians who are elderly or disabled: For pedestrians who cross junctions at a slower pace, this technique can present difficulties.
- Driver Focus: Critics believe that when drivers make these maneuvers, they may pay more attention to oncoming traffic than to pedestrians and bicycles.
Comparison with Nearby Jurisdictions
It is important to point out that Maryland has kept its current policy, but Washington D.C., which is nearby, has made several changes:
D.C. Ban: Starting January 1, 2025, it will be illegal to make a right turn on red at any intersection in D.C.
Hurdles with Enforcement: However, the ban in D.C. is facing hurdles with enforcement because of financing problems for new signs.
Final Thoughts
Maryland’s long-standing traffic policy, which allows right turns on red lights, is still in effect as of early 2025. Drivers in Maryland should be alert at all times, come to a complete stop before making a turn, and pay special attention to pedestrians and cyclists. Maryland’s statute has not been changed or stated to be changed in the short future, even though discussions over the safety of this procedure are still ongoing.