<P> A turn on red is a principle of law permitting vehicles at a traffic light showing a red signal to turn into the direction of traffic nearer to them (almost always after a complete stop) when the way is clear, without having to wait for a green signal . It is intended to allow traffic to resume moving, with minimal risk provided that proper caution is observed . </P> <P> It is commonly known as a right turn on red (or simply right on red) in countries that drive on the right side of the road, or a left turn on red in countries which drive on the left side of the road . </P> <P> Right turns on red are permitted in many regions of North America . While Western states have allowed it for more than 50 years; eastern states amended their traffic laws to allow it in the 1970s as a fuel - saving measure in response to motor fuel shortages in 1973 . The Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975 required in § 362 (c) (5) that in order for a state to receive federal assistance in developing mandated conservation programs, they must permit right turns on red lights . All 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, and Puerto Rico have allowed right turns on red since 1980, except where prohibited by a sign or where right turns are controlled by dedicated traffic lights . (The last state with a right - on - red ban, Massachusetts, ended its ban on January 1, 1980 .) The few exceptions include New York City, where right turns on red are prohibited, unless a sign indicates otherwise . </P> <P> In some states, such as New York, North Carolina, and California, a right turn on red is prohibited when a red arrow is displayed . </P>

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