As of February 2025, Michigan’s “Right Turn on Red” rule remains largely unchanged. Generally, Michigan permits drivers to make a right turn at a red light, but adherence to specific conditions is mandatory.
Conditions for Right Turn on Red:
- Drivers must come to a complete stop before turning.
- Drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians, bicyclists, and other vehicles in the intersection.
- Drivers should ensure that the turn can be made safely without impeding cross-traffic.
Exceptions to the Rule:
- A sign explicitly prohibits turning right on red. These signs are usually located above or next to the traffic signal and should be visible to drivers.
- Turning right on red could also be prohibited by light, marking, or other traffic control signals. If any sign or signal exists to indicate that drivers may not turn right on red, then you must obey it.
Left Turn on Red:
Michigan is one of the few states that allows drivers to turn left on a red light under specific conditions. This is permissible when turning from a one-way street onto another one-way street with traffic moving in the same direction. As with right turns on red, drivers must stop and yield to other traffic, bicyclists, and pedestrians before turning.
Local Ordinances:
It’s important to note that local ordinances can further restrict or prohibit right turns on red. For example, in October 2022, Ann Arbor banned right turns on red at 50 intersections in its downtown area.
Safety Considerations:
Regardless of the legality of turning right on red, safety should always be the top priority. Drivers must exercise caution, yield the right-of-way, and ensure that the intersection is clear before proceeding with the turn. Failure to yield the right of way when turning left on red can cause terrible accidents with pedestrians, bicyclists, and other motorists. If you sustained injuries in a crash, a car accident lawyer can help you pursue monetary compensation for your losses.
Other traffic laws:
Michigan school bus traffic laws prohibit drivers from passing a school bus that is stopped and has its red lights flashing. Drivers must stop at least 20 feet away and cannot resume driving until the bus lights are turned off or the bus begins moving.
Sources:
[1] https://www.michigan.gov/whitmer/news/press-releases/2025/02/10/whitmer-introduces-mi-road-ahead-plan-to-fix-the-damn-roads
[2] https://www.local.newsbreak.com/news/3777828858307-michigan-traffic-rule-2025-update-understanding-the-right-turn-on-red-rule
[3] https://www.michigan.gov/sos/license-id/real-id
[4] https://wbckfm.com/could-right-turn-on-red-be-ending-in-michigan/
