In Florida, one of the most commonly misunderstood traffic rules involves making a right turn at a red light. It’s important to understand the specific regulations to avoid traffic violations, fines, or accidents.
While many states have different rules, Florida allows a right turn on red, but there are specific conditions that must be met for the maneuver to be legal.
This update explains Florida’s right turn on red law, common mistakes to avoid, the penalties for violations, and what to do if you’re involved in an accident caused by an illegal turn.
Florida’s Right Turn Law in Plain Terms
In Florida, turning right on red is generally allowed, but you must follow certain rules. First, when you approach a red light, you must come to a full stop before entering the crosswalk or stop line.
This stop must be complete, meaning you can’t just roll through. Next, you must look for any “No Turn on Red” signs at the intersection. If you see one of these signs, you are required to wait until the light turns green.
After stopping and checking for signs, you must yield the right of way to pedestrians in the crosswalk, cyclists, and any oncoming traffic that has the green light. Only if it’s safe to do so should you proceed with the right turn.
If you fail to follow any of these steps, you could face legal consequences or cause an accident.
“No Turn on Red” Signs: What Do They Mean?
Florida law allows municipalities to install “No Turn on Red” signs at intersections where turning right on red may be dangerous. These signs are typically placed in areas with high pedestrian traffic, limited visibility, or complex traffic patterns.
You’ll often find them near schools, busy pedestrian zones, and construction areas. Ignoring one of these signs can lead to a traffic citation, points on your driving record, and even an accident if you fail to yield properly.
Can You Turn Left on Red in Florida?
Florida also allows left turns on red, but only from a one-way street onto another one-way street. Just like with right turns, you must come to a complete stop, check for any signage, and yield to pedestrians and traffic. You should only proceed when it’s completely safe.
5 Common Mistakes Drivers Make With Right Turns
Even with the law being clear, drivers often make mistakes when turning right on red. One common mistake is not coming to a full stop before making the turn. A rolling stop, even if the intersection seems clear, is not sufficient and could lead to a violation.
Another mistake is overlooking pedestrians. Florida drivers sometimes focus too much on vehicles and miss pedestrians crossing the intersection. Bicyclists can also be overlooked, even though they have the same right to the road as other vehicles. Drivers may also make the mistake of turning from the wrong lane.
Right turns on red should only be made from the far-right lane, not from the middle or left lane, as doing so can be both illegal and dangerous.
Lastly, drivers sometimes misread the intersection and either fail to notice a “No Turn on Red” sign or confuse the lanes. If you’re unsure about the rules at any intersection, it’s always safer to wait until the light turns green.
Penalties for Illegal Right Turns on Red
If you’re caught making an illegal right turn on red in Florida, you could face several consequences. Typically, a traffic citation is issued for a moving violation. The fine is usually around $125, though it can vary depending on the county.
If you receive a citation, you may also get three points on your driving record, which can lead to higher insurance premiums. In some cases, you might be required to take a driver improvement course.
More seriously, if your illegal turn causes an accident, you may be held financially responsible for any injuries or property damage.
Red-Light Cameras and Right Turns
Florida uses red-light cameras at many intersections to capture vehicles running red lights. These cameras also catch drivers who perform rolling stops or fail to yield when making a right turn on red. If a camera catches you making an illegal right turn, you will receive a Notice of Violation in the mail.
The fine is usually about $158, but there won’t be any points added to your driving record unless you contest the ticket and lose in court. To avoid red-light camera violations, always make a complete stop and yield properly before turning.
What if You’re Hit by a Driver Turning Right on Red?
If you’re injured in an accident caused by a driver who made an illegal right turn on red, you may be entitled to compensation. The driver may be held responsible if they failed to stop, yield, or check for pedestrians or other vehicles.
Common accidents involving illegal right turns include T-bone collisions, accidents with cyclists, and accidents involving pedestrians in crosswalks. If you are a victim in such a situation, you could receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future rehabilitation costs.
What to Do After an Accident at a Red Light
Accidents at red lights, including those involving illegal right turns, can happen quickly. Knowing what to do immediately after an accident is essential for protecting your rights and health. First, check for injuries and call 911 if necessary.
Even minor injuries should be evaluated, as some conditions may not be immediately apparent. If it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle out of harm’s way and turn on your hazard lights. Don’t admit fault at the scene, as liability can be complicated and anything you say may be used against you later.
Document the scene by taking clear photos and videos of the intersection, vehicle damage, traffic signals, and any visible injuries. You should also exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) and gather witness details if possible.
If the accident resulted in injury, death, or property damage over $500, you are required by Florida law to file a police report. Seek medical attention as soon as possible, as Florida’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage requires you to get treatment within 14 days to access benefits.
Notify your insurance company promptly, but keep your statements brief and factual. Finally, contact a personal injury attorney before accepting any settlement or making official statements to insurers.
How Morgan & Morgan Can Help
At Morgan & Morgan, we understand the serious consequences of accidents caused by illegal right turns at red lights. If you’ve been injured, our team can help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. With billions recovered for injury victims, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
If you’ve been hurt by a negligent driver, don’t wait to get the legal assistance you need. Our team is ready to help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
