If you’re driving in Las Vegas, you may wonder if it’s legal to turn right at a red light. The short answer is yes, but there are rules you need to follow to do it safely and legally. Failing to follow these rules can lead to tickets—or even car accidents.
Here’s everything you should know about making a right turn on red in Las Vegas, including when it’s allowed, what the law says, and tips to help you avoid trouble on the road.
When Are Right Turns on Red Allowed in Las Vegas?
In Las Vegas—and throughout Nevada—you’re generally allowed to turn right on a red light after coming to a complete stop. You must first check that the way is clear and that there are no signs saying otherwise.
Here are the steps you need to follow:
- Stop your vehicle completely before the crosswalk or stop line.
- Look for “No Right Turn on Red” signs. If you see one, you must wait for the light to turn green.
- Yield to pedestrians crossing the street.
- Yield to oncoming traffic that has the green light.
- Only turn if it’s safe to do so.
The law that applies to this situation is NRS 484B.307, which allows a right turn on red after a full stop unless otherwise posted.
What Happens if You Don’t Follow the Rules?
If you make a right turn on red without stopping or yielding, you could cause a crash or get a traffic ticket. Even if no one is hurt, you may be found at fault in an accident for failing to follow traffic rules.
Some common problems include:
- Not seeing a pedestrian in the crosswalk
- Not checking for oncoming cars making a legal U-turn
- Turning too quickly without looking both ways
Drivers don’t automatically have the right of way when turning right on red. They must always give way to anyone else who has the green light or is already in the intersection.
Are There Times You Can’t Turn Right on Red?
Yes. Even though the law allows it in most cases, there are times when turning right on red is not legal or not safe.
You can’t turn right on red when:
- A “No Right Turn on Red” sign is posted
- A red arrow is showing instead of a red circle
- A school bus is stopped nearby with flashing red lights
- A pedestrian is crossing in front of you
- There’s oncoming traffic that would make the turn unsafe
In some cases, the light might be flashing red or the signal might not be working at all. In these cases, the intersection should be treated like a stop sign. Come to a full stop and proceed only when it’s safe.
What About U-Turns and Speed Limits in Las Vegas?
While thinking about turning rules, it helps to know about other traffic laws that often come up in the same situations.
Speed Limits in Las Vegas:
- Highways: 65–70 MPH
- Main city roads: Around 45 MPH
- Residential and local roads: 25–35 MPH
Just because a speed is posted doesn’t mean it’s always safe to go that fast. If the roads are wet, visibility is low, or there are a lot of pedestrians around, you should drive more slowly.
Are U-Turns Legal?
Yes, U-turns are generally legal in Las Vegas unless there is a sign that says otherwise. But like right turns on red, they must be done carefully. If you make a U-turn and hit someone, you could be ticketed or charged with reckless driving.
What to Know if You’re in a Crash After a Right Turn on Red
If a crash happens after someone turned right on red, the key question is usually: Who had the right of way?
The driver making the right turn must prove they stopped and checked for people or cars before turning. If they didn’t, they could be found at fault.
Helpful evidence can include:
- Traffic camera footage
- Witness statements
- Dashcam video
- Police reports
- Photographs from the scene
If you were hit by someone making a right turn on red, or were involved in an accident while turning, you may want to speak with a personal injury lawyer about your rights and options.
Call Friedman Injury Law if You Were Hurt in a Red Light Accident
Traffic lights are there to help everyone stay safe. But when drivers rush through red lights or turn when it’s not safe, crashes happen. If you’ve been injured in an accident involving a red light turn, you don’t have to deal with the aftermath alone.
Friedman Injury Law helps people who’ve been hurt in car accidents throughout Las Vegas. Our team can help you figure out what went wrong and what you’re owed. Call us today at (702) 970-4222 for a free consultation.
