If you’re driving in Maryland, you might wonder if it’s okay to turn right at a red light. As of January 2025, there haven’t been any major changes to Maryland’s traffic laws about this. The rule is still the same, and it’s pretty straightforward. Let’s break it down in simple terms so every driver can understand.
Can You Turn Right on Red in Maryland?
Yes, you can. In Maryland, drivers are allowed to make a right turn at a red light — but only after stopping completely first.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Stop at the marked stop line
- If there’s no stop line, stop before the crosswalk
- If there’s no crosswalk, stop before entering the intersection
Once you stop and make sure it’s safe, you can turn right. But you must always check for people walking or biking and for other vehicles. If anything is in your way, you need to wait.
When You Can’t Turn Right on Red
There are a few cases where turning right on red is not allowed:
- If there’s a sign that says “No Turn on Red,” you must follow it.
- If pedestrians or cyclists are in the crosswalk, you must wait for them to pass.
- If any vehicle is coming and could cause danger, you need to wait.
So even if the light is red and there’s no sign, you still need to be sure it’s safe before turning.
What About Left Turns on Red?
Maryland only allows left turns on red in one case: if you are on a one-way street and turning onto another one-way street. Otherwise, left turns on red are not allowed.
Safety Concerns and Public Debate
Some people are starting to worry about safety when it comes to turning right on red. Here’s why:
- Pedestrians and cyclists might be in the crosswalk, and drivers may not always see them in time.
- Elderly and disabled people may take longer to cross the road, making them more at risk.
- Some drivers focus too much on checking for cars and forget to check for people walking.
These concerns have led to debates about whether the law should change to make roads safer, especially in busy areas.
What Are Other Places Doing?
In nearby Washington, D.C., they’ve decided to ban right turns on red at all intersections starting January 1, 2025. But even there, it’s not easy to enforce the rule everywhere, since putting up all the needed signs will take time and money.
For now, Maryland is not planning to change its law, but it’s important to stay updated because discussions are still ongoing.
To sum up, Maryland drivers can still make a right turn at red lights, as long as they stop completely and check for pedestrians, cyclists, and other cars. If there’s a sign that says you can’t turn, then follow it. Safety should always come first. While other areas like D.C. are changing their rules, Maryland’s law hasn’t changed as of 2025. Still, it’s a good idea for drivers to stay alert and cautious, especially in crowded city areas where people are crossing the road.
