Turning right on red is a common driving maneuver across the United States, including Georgia. However, understanding the specific laws and recent changes, especially in cities like Atlanta, is crucial for ensuring safety and compliance.
Georgia’s Statewide Law on Right Turns at Red Lights
Under Georgia law, drivers are generally permitted to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop, unless a sign at the intersection prohibits it. Before proceeding, drivers must yield to all oncoming traffic and pedestrians in the crosswalk. This rule aims to balance traffic flow efficiency with safety considerations.
Atlanta’s Specific Ordinance: Restrictions in Certain Neighborhoods
While the statewide law allows right turns on red, the Atlanta City Council passed an ordinance in February 2024 that prohibits such turns in specific areas: Downtown, Midtown, and Castleberry Hill. This decision was driven by safety concerns, as studies indicated that over 40% of crashes at signalized intersections in these neighborhoods involved drivers turning right on red. The ordinance is set to be fully implemented by December 31, 2025, with “No Turn on Red” signs installed at approximately 250 intersections.
Safety Implications and Rationale Behind the Ordinance
The prohibition of right turns on red in these Atlanta neighborhoods is part of a broader initiative to enhance pedestrian safety. Data revealed a significant increase in pedestrian fatalities, with a 50% rise since 2020 and 38 pedestrian deaths reported in 2022 alone. By restricting right turns on red, the city aims to reduce conflicts between vehicles and pedestrians, particularly in densely populated and high-foot-traffic areas.
Best Practices for Drivers in Georgia
- Always come to a complete stop at red lights before considering a right turn.
- Observe and obey all posted signage, especially “No Turn on Red” indicators.
- Yield to pedestrians and oncoming traffic to ensure safety for all road users.
- Stay informed about local ordinances, as city-specific rules may override state laws in certain areas.
While Georgia law permits right turns on red under specific conditions, local ordinances, like the one enacted in Atlanta, may impose additional restrictions to enhance safety. Drivers should remain vigilant, adhere to all traffic signals and signs, and stay updated on local traffic laws to ensure safe and lawful driving practices. At Ted Law Firm, we care about your healing and your future. We proudly help people in Atlanta: Columbus, Macon, Athens, Savannah, Warner Robins, and all of Georgia! We advocate for accident victims across South Carolina and Georgia. When a devastating crash turns your world upside down, you can count on Ted Law Firm to stand by your side and provide the trusted legal support you deserve.
Attorney Ted Sink, founder of The Ted Law Firm, is a Yale, Stanford Business School, and Charleston School of Law graduate and former marketing executive who built a 7-figure law practice, earning millions for his clients. With experience in both law and advertising, Ted has been recognized in Forbes, Entrepreneur, and the ABA Journal. He speaks at industry conferences on marketing and law firm management, sharing insights from his unique background to help other firms grow. When not working, Ted enjoys traveling, diving, and dog-sitting golden retrievers.
