Delaware’s new rule on Right Turns at Red Lights in 2025 updates how drivers must approach these turns, emphasizing safety while maintaining smooth traffic flow. Drivers need to clearly understand this rule, including when right turns on red are permitted, and what behaviors to avoid to comply with Delaware law.
The Basic Right Turn on Red Rule
Delaware allows motorists to turn right after coming to a complete stop at a red light, except where signage specifically prohibits such turns. Drivers must yield to pedestrians and vehicles that have the right-of-way before making the turn. The rule aligns with national standards designed to both facilitate traffic flow and protect road users.
New 2025 Clarifications and Conditions
In 2025, Delaware reinforced that right turns on red can only be made when authorized by signs or other traffic signals at an intersection. This means certain intersections might require explicit signage indicating that a right turn on red is permitted. Where no such sign exists, drivers should assume that making a right turn on a red light is prohibited.
Additionally, drivers must:
Restrictions on Red Arrow Signals
A critical update in Delaware law pertains to red arrow signals. Right turns are not permitted on a steady red arrow signal. However, if the red arrow is flashing, drivers may treat it as a stop sign and proceed cautiously to turn right, yielding as usual. This distinction is essential for safe and legal driving in Delaware.
Signage and Engineering Studies
Delaware mandates that “No Turn on Red” signs should be placed where engineering studies show issues such as poor sight distance or excessive pedestrian conflicts. These signs help prevent accidents by restricting right turns on red at hazardous intersections. Sometimes, these signs may apply only during certain hours, indicated by additional plaques, or can be displayed only at specific signal phases.
Safety Emphasis
The updated rules focus heavily on safety — drivers must always be vigilant for pedestrians, cyclists, and cross traffic. The requirement for a full stop before turning helps reduce collisions and promotes pedestrian safety especially in busy areas.
Practical Tips for Drivers in Delaware
Always come to a complete stop before considering a right turn at a red light.
Look for and obey any “No Turn on Red” signs or signals that prohibit the turn.
If there is a steady red arrow, do not turn right until the signal changes.
Yield thoroughly to pedestrians and any oncoming vehicles with a green light.
Exercise caution at night or during low visibility conditions.
Delaware’s 2025 update to the Right Turn on Red rule clarifies when such turns are permitted and reinforces the need for full stops and yielding before proceeding. With new emphasis on signage and red arrow handling, drivers must stay alert and comply with intersection-specific instructions to ensure safety and legal compliance on Delaware roads.
Sources
(https://law.justia.com/codes/delaware/title-21/chapter-41/subchapter-ii/section-4108/)
(https://legis.delaware.gov/SessionLaws?volume=58&chapter=430)
(https://delawaredefensivedriving.org/delaware-traffic-signals/)
(https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/delaware/2-Del-Admin-Code-SS-4D.22)
(https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/delaware/2-Del-Admin-Code-SS-2B.54)
