Delaware continues to allow right turns on red in 2025, with the updated rules emphasizing the need for a full stop and additional situational awareness at intersections.
The Right Turn on Red Rule in Delaware
In Delaware, a driver facing a red traffic signal may turn right after coming to a complete stop, provided there is no “No Turn on Red” sign posted at the intersection. The full stop allows the driver to check for pedestrians and oncoming traffic before proceeding, and the turn must be made cautiously to comply with the law.
Exceptions and Safety Provisions in 2025
The law prohibits right turns on red at locations where a posted sign explicitly forbids it. Additionally, drivers must always yield the right of way to pedestrians lawfully in the intersection or adjacent crosswalk. Delaware traffic updates for 2025 reinforce these requirements and note that increased use of red light cameras may trigger automated enforcement for unsafe or illegal maneuvers, especially relating to pedestrian safety and intersection conflicts.
Penalties and Enforcement
Violations of the right turn on red rule—including failing to stop completely, ignoring posted signs, or endangering pedestrians—may result in fines or points against a driver’s license. Fines for related infractions range from $75 to $115 for a first offense, with steeper penalties for repeat violations within two years.
The 2025 update clarifies that Delaware drivers may turn right on red after a full stop, unless signs prohibit it; but extra caution and compliance with pedestrian protections are required at all intersections.
Sources
(https://optraffic.com/blog/what-are-the-rules-for-usa-traffic-lights/)
(https://delawaredefensivedriving.org/delaware-traffic-signals/)
(https://law.justia.com/codes/delaware/title-21/chapter-41/subchapter-ii/section-4108/)
(https://delcode.delaware.gov/title21/c043/sc02/index.html)
(https://delcode.delaware.gov/title21/c041/sc02/index.html)
