The modification to Delaware’s traffic regulations that took place in 2025 continues to clarify the laws that govern right turns on red lights, which are a common source of uncertainty for motorists. In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about the present law, how it is applied, and the consequences for breaking it.
The Legal Structure and the Prime Directive
According to Section 4108 of Title 21 of the Delaware Code, cars who are facing a circular red traffic light are required to come to a complete stop before continuing along the roadway. In the event that a posted sign expressly forbids it, you are permitted to make a right turn on red after coming to a complete stop. In addition, this regulation applies to left turns from one one-way street onto another one-way street, provided that there is no notice prohibiting such a turn from occurring before the turn.
Important Prerequisites for Making a Right Turn on Red
- Full Stop: Prior to entering the intersection, you are required to come to a complete stop before the stop line, the crosswalk, or, if neither of these is available, before entering the intersection.
- Yielding: When you come to a complete stop, you are required to give the right-of-way to any and all pedestrians and other vehicles that are legally present within the junction or near the crossing.
- Signage: Always be sure to check for signs that say “No Turn on Red.” At that intersection, it is strictly forbidden to make a right turn through the red light if it is present.
- In exceptional circumstances, it is only possible to make a left turn on red from a one-way street onto another one-way street, and only if the restriction is not explicitly stated on the road sign.
Practical Considerations
- It is not necessary for the traffic signal that instructs drivers to turn right to be located exactly above the lane in question. When there is no striped or concrete island that separates the right-turn lane, the red light is activated, and the driver is expected to come to a complete stop with their vehicle.
- It is still necessary to come to a complete stop, even if there is no stop queue present. Even if the signal is not directly overhead, the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) signage frequently emphasises that a complete stop is required prior to making a right turn on red.
Punitive Measures for Infractions
General violations of the right turn on red regulation in Delaware can result in fines ranging from $75 to $115. These fines can be imposed for violations of the rule. For a first offence, running a red light, which includes failing to stop before turning right on red, can result in a fine ranging from $75 to $230. The penalty for further offences within a period of two years are more severe.
