Can You Turn Right on Red in Massachusetts?
You can legally turn right on red in Massachusetts unless there is a no turn on red sign posted at the intersection.
Written by Mary Cahill
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
It’s legal to turn right on red in Massachusetts unless there is a no turn on red sign posted at the intersection. Make sure you come to a complete stop at the red light before you make a righthand turn.
When you come to a red light, you must stop even if you are planning on turning right at the intersection. Each state abides by its own traffic laws when it comes to taking a right on red—to stay safe where you drive, make sure you’re aware of what constitutes a legal turn.
If you’re wondering how the right on red rule works in Massachusetts,
car insurance
comparison expert and broker super app Jerry
has compiled a guide to answer all of your questions. Here, we’ll discuss where and when you can make a right on red and what consequences you could face if you fail to follow this traffic law. As a bonus, we'll share some tips on how to save on your Massachusetts insurance costs
!Can you turn right on red in Massachusetts?
Yes, you can—but not everywhere. When you are stopped at an intersection, look around to see if there is a no turn on red sign posted. These signs are typically positioned on the light post beside the traffic light or on the side of the road like a stop sign. If this sign is present, you must stay put until the light turns green.
If there is no sign prohibiting you from turning, you may proceed—cautiously. Make sure you grant the right of way to cars traveling straight through the intersection, cars turning left who have a green arrow light, and any cyclists or pedestrians in your vicinity.
If you are approaching a flashing red light, treat this exactly as you would a stop sign. Come to a full stop, yield the right of way to any vehicle that arrives at the light before you, and proceed safely once the road is clear.
What about left turns on red?
Massachusetts state law will only allow you to take a lefthand turn on red from a one-way street onto another one-way street. Again, this turn must be made carefully and with close attention to others on the road.
Key Takeaway Whenever you turn at a red light, you must take precautions, such as making sure there isn’t a no turn on red sign and granting the necessary right of way to pedestrians and other drivers.
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Penalties for an illegal right turn on red in Massachusetts
There are times when turning right on red could get you a ticket. In Massachusetts, the penalty for making an illegal turn at a red light is two points added to your driving record and a fine ranging from $40 to $155 depending on the circumstances.
In some cases, you could face more serious charges like reckless driving if:
- You were speeding when you went through the red light
- You did not come to a complete stop before turning right
- Someone is injured or killed as a result of your turn at the light
Remember, acquiring more than seven points on your driving record in a three-year period could amount to having your
license suspended
for up to two months. 
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