Yes, in most cases, you can legally turn right on red in South Carolina, but only after coming to a complete stop and ensuring the intersection is clear and safe. Drivers must yield to all oncoming traffic and any pedestrians before completing the turn. If a posted sign prohibits turning on red, then it is not allowed under any circumstances.
Despite being a common maneuver, right-on-red turns are a frequent source of confusion and collisions. When drivers misjudge traffic or ignore the rules, serious accidents can happen.
If you were hurt in this type of crash, a South Carolina car accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and whether you may be eligible for compensation.
Common Mistakes That Cause Red Light Accidents
Turning right on red seems simple, but it often leads to preventable accidents, especially when drivers rush through intersections or fail to look for pedestrians. Even though the turn is legal, the driver is still responsible for making it safely.
At Shelly Leeke Law Firm, we have helped many individuals recover damages after red light crashes that were caused by inattention or reckless driving.
As South Carolina personal injury lawyers, we know how to uncover the details that prove fault and show the full impact of an accident on someone’s life.
Some of the most common mistakes we see in red light turns include:
- Failing to come to a complete stop before turning
- Overlooking pedestrians in crosswalks
- Misjudging the speed of oncoming vehicles
- Ignoring posted “No Turn on Red” signs
- Blocking the crosswalk while waiting to turn
Even small mistakes at intersections can have serious consequences, especially when they involve people on foot or riding bikes. When a driver fails to check their surroundings or rushes a turn, the results can be life-changing for someone simply crossing the street.
On team Shelly Leeke, we often help our clients prove what really happened by relying on clear evidence like traffic footage, witness accounts, and insights from accident reconstruction professionals.
What the Law Says About Right Turns on Red in South Carolina
State traffic laws allow right turns on red, but only under specific conditions. According to S.C. Code § 56-5-970, drivers may turn right on red in South Carolina after stopping completely and only when the turn can be made safely. If there is a sign prohibiting the turn, the driver must obey that restriction.
While the law permits these turns, it also puts the responsibility on drivers to ensure the way is clear. If they fail to stop, yield, or observe the intersection properly, they can be held liable for any resulting injuries or damage.
This statute is often used to determine fault in intersection accidents. We rely on it when negotiating with insurers or presenting evidence in court, especially when the other driver made a rushed or illegal turn and caused a preventable crash.
What to Do If You Were Hit by a Driver Turning on Red
If you were injured in a crash involving a red light turn, your next steps matter. In the hours and days following an accident, collecting the right information and avoiding common mistakes can protect your legal rights.
Here’s what we recommend:
- Seek medical care immediately, even if you feel okay at first.
- Take photos or videos of the vehicles, intersection, and any traffic signs.
- Request a copy of the police report once it’s available.
- Avoid recorded statements with the insurance company.
- Contact an attorney who understands South Carolina traffic laws and liability.
Our Shelly Leeke Law Firm attorneys help clients document their injuries, estimate their losses, and hold the at-fault party accountable. Whether your injuries are minor or long-term, you should not be left covering the costs on your own.
Why Our Firm Takes Red Light Cases Seriously
Intersection crashes may seem minor at first, but they often result in complex injury claims. Even at lower speeds, right-turn collisions can cause serious injuries to pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers who have the right of way. These cases deserve the same level of attention and care as any other personal injury claim.
At Shelly Leeke Law Firm, we treat every case as a priority and every client with the respect they deserve. We take the time to listen, investigate, and prepare a strong strategy tailored to your needs. Our team brings:
- Over 10 years of experience representing injury victims in South Carolina
- A contingency fee structure, so you do not pay unless we win your case
- A proven record of results across a wide range of traffic injury claims
- Shelly Leeke Law Firm free consultations to help you understand your legal options
- Full access to the Shelly Leeke Law Firm legal team throughout the life of your case
We understand the toll that an accident takes. That includes the physical injuries, emotional stress, and financial uncertainty that follow. Our goal is to help you move forward with the support and compensation you need to rebuild.
Talk to an Attorney Today About Your Red Light Accident
If you were hit by a driver turning right on red in South Carolina, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
These cases may seem clear-cut, but proving fault and getting fair treatment from the insurance company often takes legal experience and detailed investigation.
Contact Shelly Leeke Law Firm today to schedule a free case evaluation. We will review your situation, explain your options, and handle the legal process so you can focus on recovery.
Shelly Leeke Law Firm is a trusted advocate for Charleston accident victims and is proud to fight for those who were hurt by someone else’s careless decision. Call Shelly now!
