Delaware’s traffic laws are constantly evolving, and one of the most important updates to keep in mind is the rule surrounding right turns on red. Whether you’re a new driver or someone who’s been on the road for years, it’s essential to stay informed about how this rule has changed. The Delaware Traffic Rule 2025 update brings clarity to the right turn on red situation, so let’s dive into what it means for drivers.
What Is the Right Turn on Red Rule?
The right turn on red rule allows drivers to make a right turn at a red light, but only under specific conditions. Before 2025, Delaware followed a general rule allowing drivers to make this turn unless a sign specifically prohibited it. However, with the update in 2025, there are more restrictions and clarifications about when this maneuver is permissible.
The 2025 Update: Key Changes
As part of Delaware’s new traffic rule update, there are a few important points to consider:
When It’s Allowed: The rule still allows right turns on red when there is no sign prohibiting it. However, under the 2025 update, drivers are now required to come to a full stop before making the turn. This stop must be complete, meaning the vehicle must come to a full stop for a brief moment before proceeding.
Pedestrian Crosswalks: A key addition to the updated rule is the heightened emphasis on pedestrian safety. Before making a right turn on red, drivers must ensure that there are no pedestrians in the crosswalk. This is a significant part of the 2025 update, as it makes the safety of pedestrians a higher priority.
Visual Check for Traffic: Drivers must not only check for pedestrians but also for other vehicles before making the right turn on red. The update stresses that the right turn should only be made when it is safe and clear.
Signs that Still Apply: If the intersection has a “No Turn on Red” sign, then drivers must obey that sign and not attempt to make the turn. The 2025 rule clarifies that these signs must be respected at all times, and drivers will be penalized if they ignore them.
Why the Update?
The 2025 update comes as part of an effort to improve safety for both drivers and pedestrians. With the increased focus on pedestrian safety and the responsibility of drivers to ensure they are not endangering others, Delaware’s lawmakers wanted to make sure the rule is crystal clear. This ensures that drivers understand their duties not only to themselves but also to the people around them.
How Will the Update Affect Drivers?
For drivers in Delaware, the impact of the 2025 update means an increased awareness of pedestrian safety, especially in urban areas where there may be more foot traffic. This also means a higher level of responsibility when approaching a red light. Drivers should always expect to come to a full stop and double-check for pedestrians or cyclists in the crosswalk.
What Happens If You Violate the Rule?
If a driver does not come to a full stop before making a right turn on red or does not check for pedestrians and other vehicles, they could face fines or other penalties. These penalties could vary depending on the severity of the violation, but in general, traffic violations related to the right turn on red rule will be subject to fines and points on the driver’s record.
The Delaware Traffic Rule 2025 update on the right turn on red emphasizes the importance of safety, particularly for pedestrians and other road users. While the basic concept of making a right turn on red still applies, the update requires drivers to stop fully and check for pedestrians and other vehicles before proceeding. By staying informed about these changes, drivers in Delaware can help make the roads safer for everyone.
SOURCES
[1] https://mywaynecountynow.com/delaware-traffic-rule-2025-update-understanding-the-right-turn-on-red-rule/
[2] https://mywaynecountynow.com/delaware-right-turn-on-red-rule-explained-2025-latest-traffic-law-changes/
[3] https://law.justia.com/codes/delaware/title-21/chapter-41/subchapter-ii/section-4108/
[4] https://optraffic.com/blog/what-are-the-rules-for-usa-traffic-lights/
[5] https://delawaredefensivedriving.org/delaware-traffic-signals/
