As of 2024, Maine’s traffic rules regarding right turns on red lights remain largely unchanged. The general rule allows drivers to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop, provided certain conditions are met.
Right Turn on Red in Maine
The Maine traffic law states that a driver may make a right turn on a red light after stopping if:
- It is not prohibited by a sign saying “NO RIGHT TURN ON RED”
- The driver yields the right-of-way to pedestrians and other traffic proceeding as directed by the signal
It’s important to note that this rule applies to steady and circular red lights. For red arrow signals, the rules are different.
Red Arrow Signals
In Maine, a right turn is prohibited when a red arrow is displayed.
This is consistent with several other states, including Alaska, California, Colorado, and others. Drivers must wait for the red arrow to change before making a right turn in these situations.
Intersection Safety
When making a right turn on red, drivers must exercise caution and be aware of:
- Traffic coming from the left
- Pedestrians in crosswalks
- Potential U-turning vehicles (where U-turns are permitted)
Exceptions and Considerations
There are certain situations where right turns on red may be prohibited:
- At intersections with signs explicitly prohibiting the turn
- In areas with high pedestrian traffic
- Where visibility is limited
- Near railroad crossings or other hazardous areas
Other Maine Traffic Rules to Remember
While focusing on the right turn on red rule, it’s worth noting other important traffic regulations in Maine:
- Drivers must stay in the right lane on limited access roads with speed limits of 65 mph or higher, unless actively passing
- U-turns are generally permitted unless signposted otherwise, but are prohibited in business districts and outside fire stations
- Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants
- Children under 12 must be seated in the rear, and those under 8 weighing less than 80 pounds must use appropriate safety seats
By understanding and following these rules, drivers can ensure safer roads for all users in Maine.
Source
- https://www.joebornstein.com/post/must-know-rules-for-safe-and-legal-driving-on-the-maine-turnpike
- https://shark1053.com/traffic-signs-stop-red-here-no-right-turn-masschusetts-new-england-hamphire-maine/
- https://wcyy.com/confused-by-a-red-arrow-plus-a-green-light-on-maine-traffic-signals/
- https://www.mannlawllc.com/blog/maine-bicycle-and-e-bike-laws-2020-summary/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turn_on_red