In Maine, drivers have long been allowed to make a right turn on a red light after coming to a complete stop, provided they yield the right-of-way to pedestrians and other vehicles lawfully using the intersection.
This rule aligns with general U.S. traffic practices that permit right turns at red signals unless prohibited by specific signage. Maine’s traffic laws require all drivers to stop fully at the marked stop line or, if none exists, at the intersection before turning right on red.
New Rule Highlights and Changes for Drivers
Recently, Maine has introduced a new rule regarding right turns at red lights which emphasizes safety and local discretion. Under this updated regulation, municipalities or the Maine Department of Transportation (DOT) must consider specific factors before prohibiting right turns on red at particular intersections.
This process includes evaluating traffic volume, pedestrian activity, roadway design, and accident history. Municipalities now have clearer authority to install “No Turn on Red” signs at intersections where turning right on a red light may pose safety risks.
The new rule formalizes a safety-first approach and empowers local governments to better tailor traffic control to community needs. It also requires public input and hearings before changes are made to right turn on red permissions at intersections, increasing transparency and public participation.
What Drivers Need to Remember
Despite the new regulatory framework, the fundamental steps for making a right turn on red remain the same for Maine drivers:
Always come to a complete stop at the designated stop line or intersection.
Check carefully for pedestrians crossing at the crosswalk.
Yield to any oncoming traffic that has the right-of-way.
Look for and obey any posted signs that prohibit right turns on red.
Only make the turn if it is safe and legal to do so.
Drivers should be especially cautious in areas where recently installed “No Turn on Red” signs may indicate changes based on the new rule. Staying alert and aware of these signs is essential to avoid traffic violations.
How This Rule Compares to Other States
Maine’s updated policy is similar to most U.S. states where right turns on red are generally allowed except where local authorities have restricted them for safety. The difference lies in Maine’s formal requirement for local governments to assess and justify prohibitions, ensuring they are data-driven and community-supported.
Unlike some states that allow left turns on red under certain conditions, Maine currently maintains a ban on left turns on red lights, prioritizing pedestrian safety and minimizing intersection conflicts.
Practical Impact on Maine Roads
This new rule seeks to improve road safety while maintaining traffic flow efficiency in Maine. By allowing municipalities to selectively prohibit right turns on red where hazards exist, it reduces accidents and pedestrian injuries without broadly restricting driver flexibility.
Drivers in Maine can expect to see more tailored signage and public engagement regarding these rules, leading to safer and more predictable intersections. Ultimately, the rule balances convenience for motorists with the safety needs of all road users.
Maine’s new rule on right turns at red lights officially empowers local authorities to regulate this maneuver based on safety assessments and public input. Drivers should continue to follow existing right turn on red laws—stopping completely and yielding to others—while also staying attentive to new signage designed to protect pedestrians and improve traffic safety across the state.
Sources
(https://legislature.maine.gov/statutes/29-a/title29-asec2057.html)
(https://www.drivinglaws.org/resources/maine-red-light-stop-sign-tickets.html)
(https://zutobi.com/us/driver-guides/traffic-lights)
(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turn_on_red)
(https://wgme.com/news/local/proposed-bill-would-allow-drivers-to-make-left-turn-at-red-light)
