Right turn on red only for right-most lane?

Question

In my area, there are several roads where two lanes are designated as right turn allowable. Sometimes, the second right-most lane also allows going straight, and sometimes it does not. I understand that for the right-most lane, it is generally acceptable in the United States to turn right on the red light if you come to a complete stop and check for safety before turning.

Does this rule also apply to the other turning lanes, even though they are not the right-most? I have been erring on the side of caution and not turning in these lanes, whereas I see a ton of people turn without a second thought. I would appreciate any clarification. Thank you very much.

Answer 1

As far as I know, here in Arizona it is just fine to turn as long as there is not a sign saying "no turn on red" or if you have a red arrow.

Answer 2

In texas they can turn just the same as the inner lane can or not and wait for the light to change and go straight....

Answer 3

you must be at the rightmost lane to make a right on red. most  right turn lane roads have a curve for the rightmost lane to just go on and yield into traffic.

Answer 4

A very good question!

I see this all the time. Many drivers aren't sure whether they can do this or not. I have told many drivers that they can.

If you are in a lane with a sign above it indicating that you may make a right turn in that lane, then it is legal to do so on a red light, as long as there are no laws to the contrary where you live.

If there is a straight/LEFT turn arrow above your lane and you are on a one way street,  intending to turn LEFT onto another one way street, you may make your LEFT turn on a red light also, after stopping, and when safe to do so. Traffic travelling in the direction of the green light has the right of way, of course.

If you have a turning arrow above the second lane, you may do both of the above turns on a red light from this lane as well.

I hope that clarifies things for you.

Note: Always be aware that if you are in that SECOND lane making a turn, a driver in the curb lane may go into that second lane as they turn without realizing that you are making a turn also. Watch that vehicle.

Sometimes they drive straight through too, which is a shocker!