by PORTLAND, Maine — As of 2025, Maine drivers should be aware that the state’s right turn on red law remains consistent, allowing motorists to turn right at a red light after coming to a full stop — unless otherwise indicated by signage. Understanding the details of this rule is essential for safe driving and avoiding fines or demerit points.
The Basics of Right Turn on Red in Maine
Under Maine Revised Statutes Title 29-A, §2057, a steady red circular light requires drivers to stop completely and remain stationary until the light changes. However, Maine law permits a right turn on red unless a sign explicitly prohibits it, such as “NO RIGHT TURN ON RED.”
This rule aligns Maine with the majority of states in the U.S., though there are exceptions in certain municipalities where local ordinances may further restrict right turns at specific intersections.
When executing a right turn on red, drivers must:
- Come to a complete stop at the marked stop line or, if none exists, before entering the crosswalk or intersection.
- Yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk. Pedestrian safety remains a top priority under Maine law, and failing to yield can have serious consequences.
- Yield to other vehicles lawfully within the intersection, including those moving straight through or making left turns.
Failure to follow these rules can result in fines and demerit points on your driving record. For example, red light violations in Maine generally carry fines between $121 and $146 and add four demerit points to a driver’s license.
What You Cannot Do
Maine does not permit left turns on red at any intersection. Drivers attempting a left turn against a red light risk fines and additional demerit points. This rule distinguishes Maine from a handful of states that allow left turns on red from one-way streets onto other one-way streets, though such allowances are rare nationally.
Safety Considerations
Even when permitted, a right turn on red is not a free pass. Drivers are responsible for ensuring the intersection is clear before proceeding. According to the Maine Bureau of Highway Safety, intersections are one of the most common sites for accidents, and improper turns on red can lead to collisions with pedestrians, bicyclists, or other vehicles.
According to mywaynecountynow, Maine law emphasizes that a complete stop does not give a driver the right of way; the turn must only occur when the way is clear. Motorists should approach the intersection cautiously, scanning for cross traffic, bicyclists, and pedestrians.
Local Signage Overrides State Law
While Maine allows right turns on red by default, signage can override this state law. Drivers should always look for:
- “NO RIGHT TURN ON RED” signs, which legally prohibit the maneuver.
- Temporary traffic control signs, such as those near construction zones or school areas, which may limit turning for safety reasons.
Ignoring these signs is considered a violation of state law and may lead to fines or points on a driver’s record.
Read Also: Idaho Traffic Rule 2025 Update: Understanding the Right Turn on Red Rule
Penalties for Violations
Violating the right turn on red rules in Maine can carry financial and legal consequences:
- Fines: $121–$146, depending on the municipality and severity of the violation.
- Demerit Points: Four points are added to the driver’s license for running a red light or failing to yield to pedestrians.
- Insurance Impacts: Accumulating points can lead to higher insurance premiums and, in severe cases, license suspension.
Drivers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these rules to avoid penalties and ensure pedestrian and vehicle safety at intersections.
Key Takeaways for 2025
- Right turn on red: Allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign specifically prohibits it.
- Yielding: Always yield to pedestrians and other vehicles lawfully in the intersection.
- Left turn on red: Strictly prohibited anywhere in Maine.
- Penalties: Red light violations can lead to fines, demerit points, and insurance consequences.
- No changes in 2025: Maine’s right turn on red law remains consistent with past years, continuing to align with national norms.
Conclusion
For Maine drivers, the right turn on red law in 2025 remains clear: stop completely, check for pedestrians and traffic, and only proceed if the turn is safe and not prohibited by signage. Observing these rules ensures compliance with Maine law, promotes safety at intersections, and helps avoid fines or points on your driving record.
Whether you are a new driver or a seasoned motorist, understanding Maine’s right turn on red law is a key part of safe driving in the state. Remember, local signage always overrides state law, so stay alert for “No Right Turn on Red” notices at intersections.
What do you think about Maine’s traffic rules? Should the state consider allowing left turns on red like some others? Share your thoughts in the comments on ibwhsmag.com.
