When is it legal to run red lights in North Carolina? Here’s what state law says
One of the most common annoyances on the road is getting stuck at a red light for what feels like an eternity.
Though it may be tempting to run a red light after sitting at an intersection, you could still get a ticket that comes with a fine of up to $100, and points on your driver’s license and insurance.
However, there are some motorists who are allowed to run red lights if they follow state laws.
Here’s when it’s legal to to run red lights in North Carolina, and what to do if you get stuck at one.
When is it legal to run red lights?
Cars must always stop at red lights, but there is a rule that allows motorcyclists to run red lights in North Carolina.
If a rider waits at a red light for at least three minutes and it doesn’t change, the state’s safe-on-red law says they can proceed through the light carefully if there are no other drivers approaching the intersection.
The law is in place due to traffic signal sensors not always recognizing motorcycles.
What if you get stuck at a red light?
If you get stuck at a red light, it probably means the traffic signal sensor isn’t recognizing your vehicle, FOX 8 reported.
When that happens you can try backing up or pulling forward a bit so your car is over the sensor, which is usually outlined in tar or a different color than the pavement around it.
If the light still doesn’t change, you can turn right and take a different route to your destination.
Can you turn left on red in NC?
Turning left on red is legal in 42 states, but North Carolina is not included in that list, according to the N.C. Department of Transportation.
Some states only allow drivers to turn left on red onto a one-way street from a one-way street, while others allow left on red turns from a one-way street and a two-way street.
This story was originally published August 8, 2023 at 9:10 AM with the headline "When is it legal to run red lights in North Carolina? Here’s what state law says."
