Delaware’s right turn on red rule remains in effect for 2025, but it’s important for drivers to understand the details to avoid fines and ensure safety at intersections.
Delaware Right Turn on Red: 2025 Update
What the Law Says
- Permitted Unless Prohibited: Drivers in Delaware may turn right at a red light after coming to a complete stop, unless a sign at the intersection specifically prohibits right turns on red.
- Full Stop Required: Before turning, you must stop completely at the marked stop line, or if there is none, before entering the crosswalk or intersection.
- Yielding: After stopping, you must yield to all other vehicles and pedestrians lawfully within the intersection or crosswalk. Only proceed when it is safe to do so.
- Turning Left on Red: Delaware also allows a left turn on red from a one-way street onto another one-way street, after a complete stop and if not otherwise prohibited by signage.
Key Points and Penalties
- No Turn on Red Signs: If a posted sign prohibits turning on red, you must obey it and wait for the green signal.
- Treat Like a Stop Sign: The law treats a right turn on red like a stop sign: stop, yield, and proceed only when clear.
- Fines: Violating the right turn on red rule can result in a fine ranging from $75 to $230 for a first offense, and up to $575 or jail time for repeat offenses within two years.
Summary Table
| Situation | Right Turn on Red Allowed? |
|---|---|
| After full stop, no sign prohibiting turn | Yes |
| Sign posted: “No Turn on Red” | No |
| Pedestrian or vehicle in intersection/crosswalk | No, must yield |
| Left turn from one-way to one-way | Yes, after full stop and if safe |
In Delaware, you can turn right on red after a full stop and yielding to all traffic and pedestrians—unless a sign says otherwise. Always treat the red light like a stop sign, and remember that safety and right-of-way come first.
Sources:
- https://law.justia.com/codes/delaware/title-21/chapter-41/subchapter-ii/section-4108/
- https://codes.findlaw.com/de/title-21-motor-vehicles/de-code-sect-21-4134/
- https://delcode.delaware.gov/title21/c041/sc02/index.html
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turn_on_red