In the US, right turns on red lights account for nearly half of all turns.This move can put bikes and pedestrians in danger even though it is practical for cars and improves traffic flow. South Carolina recently updated its right-turn-on-red law in 2024 in order to allay this worry. This blog post seeks to make sense of these modifications and guarantee that you safely negotiate intersections.
South Carolina and the Right Turn on Red
In South Carolina, it has long been customary to turn right on red lights, which helps to ease traffic congestion at crossings. The state has acknowledged that this maneuver may pose a safety risk, especially for vulnerable road users like bicycles and pedestrians. The rule’s most recent revisions seek to reconcile safety and traffic flow.
Understanding the 2024 Right-Turn-on-Red Rule
Most U.S. states have a universal right-turn-on-red law that permits drivers to turn right after completely stopping at a red light as long as there is clear space and they yield to approaching traffic and pedestrians. The revised rule in South Carolina highlights four fundamental ideas:
Exceptions and Restrictions
In South Carolina, the following circumstances may still make a right turn on red illegal:
Safety First: Right Turn on Red Maneuvers
In South Carolina, the revised right-turn-on-red law prioritizes the protection of bicyclists and pedestrians. The following are safe driving guidelines to abide by when turning right on a red light:
- Come to a Complete Stop: Ensure your vehicle comes to a full and complete stop before the red light.
- Double-Check for Pedestrians and Cyclists: Look carefully in all directions, including sidewalks and crosswalks, for pedestrians and cyclists who might be crossing the street.
- Signal Your Intention: Activate your right turn signal well in advance to alert other drivers of your intention.
- Proceed Only When Safe: Only proceed with the turn when you have a clear and unobstructed view of the entire intersection and there are no pedestrians or cyclists in your path.
- Maintain Low Speed: When making the turn, maintain a low speed to allow for better reaction time if necessary.
Local Variations and Resources
It’s crucial to remember that certain South Carolina cities may have different rules or amendments to the right-turn-on-red policy. For example, Columbia may limit right turns on red during rush hour, while Charleston may have more stringent pedestrian crossing regulations.
We advise verifying with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or city traffic department website to be sure you’re adhering to the most recent laws in your area. These are a few useful links:
Conclusion: Safe Driving in South Carolina
The goal of South Carolina’s revised right-turn-on-red law is to increase road user safety for all. You may be confident that you’re making responsible and safe right turns on red by adhering to the previously mentioned recommendations. Recall that promoting the safety of bikes, pedestrians, and cars is essential to fostering a more peaceful and accident-free driving environment in South Carolina.