South Carolina allows drivers to make a right turn on a red traffic light after coming to a complete stop, except where prohibited by signs or signals. This rule helps maintain smooth traffic flow while emphasizing safety at intersections. Drivers must always be cautious and ensure that pedestrians, cyclists, or other motorists have the right-of-way before making the turn.
Key Rules for Making a Right Turn on Red
Before making a right turn on red, South Carolina drivers must:
Come to a full stop behind the marked stop line, crosswalk, or intersection.
Yield to pedestrians lawfully crossing or near the crosswalk.
Yield to other vehicles that have the right-of-way.
Observe any posted signs that explicitly prohibit right turns on red at that intersection.
Failure to comply with these rules can result in legal consequences, especially if it leads to an accident. Drivers are considered negligent if they disobey these safety laws and cause harm to others.
Safety Concerns and Exceptions
While right turns on red are generally permitted, there are important safety concerns to consider:
Pedestrians and bicyclists are at risk if drivers do not properly yield when turning.
Drivers focused on merging with traffic may overlook pedestrians in crosswalks, increasing accident risks.
Certain intersections may have signs banning right turns on red due to visibility or traffic flow issues.
Some cities or jurisdictions participating in safety initiatives like Vision Zero might advocate for bans or stricter enforcement to reduce traffic-related fatalities.
Legal Implications of Violations
Making an illegal or unsafe right turn on red that results in a collision can lead to serious legal accountability. Drivers found negligent may face liability for injuries, vehicle damages, medical expenses, and lost wages related to the accident. Courts may hold such drivers responsible both civilly and criminally depending on the circumstances.
Recent Related Traffic Law Update
Alongside right turn regulations, South Carolina implemented a Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act effective September 1, 2025. This prohibits using handheld mobile devices while driving, aiming to reduce distracted driving and enhance road safety. While this is not directly linked to right turn on red, abiding by it contributes to safer intersections by minimizing driver distractions.
In South Carolina, the right turn on red is legal following a full stop and proper yielding, except where specifically prohibited by signs. Drivers must stay alert to pedestrians and other road users to prevent accidents. Understanding and following these rules helps ensure safer intersections and lawful driving practices in 2025 and beyond.
Sources
(https://www.scinjuryattorney.com/blog/right-on-red-sc/)
(https://www.jebailylaw.com/blog/right-on-red-sc/)
(https://law.justia.com/codes/south-carolina/title-56/chapter-5/section-56-5-970/)
(https://www.smartcitiesdive.com/news/right-turns-on-red-light-put-pedestrians-at-risk-mineta-study/738332/)
(https://www.johnsonlawyers.com/posts/should-right-on-red-be-banned)
