Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Academy (NVCJA) Practice Exam

When is a right turn on a steady red light permitted?

1. When no traffic is present

2. After closely observing the intersection

3. After stopping unless signs prohibit it

4. Only during daylight hours

The correct answer is: After stopping unless signs prohibit it

A right turn on a steady red light is permitted after stopping unless signs prohibit it. This rule is based on traffic laws designed to ensure safety at intersections. When a driver approaches a red light, they are required to come to a complete stop and yield to any oncoming traffic or pedestrians before proceeding with the turn. This ensures that the driver has properly assessed the intersection for any potential hazards or the presence of other vehicles that might have the right of way. The requirement to stop allows the driver to look for signs that might restrict turning on red, such as "No Turn on Red" indications. If those signs are not present, and it is safe to do so, the driver can then make the right turn legally. Understanding this rule reinforces the importance of stopping at red lights, not just for compliance, but for ensuring safety at intersections. It promotes awareness of the surroundings before executing a maneuver that merges into a roadway with potential moving traffic, minimizing accidents.