Montana, like many other states, recently updated its rules regarding making right turns at red traffic lights to enhance road safety and clarify driver responsibilities. This article breaks down the key aspects of the new rule and what drivers need to know.
What is the Right Turn on Red Rule?
The Right Turn on Red (RTOR) rule allows vehicles to turn right at a red traffic light after coming to a complete stop and ensuring the way is clear of oncoming traffic and pedestrians. This maneuver can help improve traffic flow and reduce idling time at intersections, saving fuel and reducing vehicle emissions.
Montana’s New Change on RTOR
Montana continues to allow right turns on red after a full stop, but the new rule emphasizes heightened caution for pedestrian safety and clear yielding requirements. Drivers are reminded explicitly to yield fully to pedestrians in crosswalks and any oncoming vehicles with the right of way before turning. Failure to comply with these rules can result in traffic violations.
Key Requirements of the New Rule
Complete Stop: Drivers must come to a full stop at the red light before attempting the right turn; a rolling stop is illegal.
Yield Right of Way: Drivers must yield to all traffic that has the right of way, including vehicles and pedestrians, before turning.
Watch for No Turn on Red Signs: Some intersections may have posted signs prohibiting right turns on red due to visibility or safety concerns; drivers must obey these signs strictly.
Increased Vigilance at Pedestrian Crosswalks: Mountain states, including Montana, prioritize pedestrian safety, requiring drivers to be extra vigilant when turning on red to avoid accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists.
Why the New Rule Was Introduced
Rising pedestrian accidents in parts of the U.S. prompted Montana and other states to update RTOR rules. The emphasis is on reducing collisions caused by drivers failing to fully yield or stopping incompletely before making a right turn on red. This rule change aligns Montana with growing national attention on pedestrian safety and responsible driving.
Enforcement and Penalties
Violating the RTOR rule can lead to fines and citations similar to other traffic violations. Police may issue tickets for:
Penalties can include fines, points on driving records, and increased insurance premiums.
How Drivers Can Stay Compliant
Always come to a complete stop at the red light before turning right.
Scan the intersection carefully for pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles that may have the right of way.
Obey all traffic signs, including “No Turn on Red” posts.
Exercise extra caution in busy, urban, or pedestrian-heavy areas.
Montana’s updated Right Turn on Red rule reinforces the fundamental requirement for drivers to stop completely and yield fully before turning right on a red light.
In addition to promoting safer driving practices, the rule aims to protect vulnerable pedestrians and improve overall road safety. Drivers in Montana should familiarize themselves with these requirements to avoid violations and contribute to safer roadways for everyone.
Sources
(https://internationaldriversassociation.com/nl/blog/right-turn-red-laws-usa/)
(https://www.iihs.org/research-areas/red-light-running)
(https://driversed.com/driving-information/signs-signals-and-markings/traffic-signals/)
(https://zutobi.com/us/driver-guides/traffic-lights)
(https://www.reddit.com/r/bikecommuting/comments/1ktiop9/time_to_ban_right_turns_on_red_lights_in_cities/)
