rightturning

Rightturning refers to the act of changing travel direction to the right relative to a vehicle’s or traveler’s current heading. In everyday use, it describes the maneuver of turning right at intersections or other junctions. The term can apply to motor vehicles, bicycles, pedestrians, and other road users.

In road traffic, a right turn commonly involves decelerating, signaling with a right-turn indicator, and completing the turn within a designated lane or curb line. Drivers must observe traffic signals, signs, and right-of-way rules while checking for pedestrians, cyclists, and oncoming traffic. The precise geometry of the turn depends on road design, including lane width, curb radii, and the presence of dedicated turn lanes.

Right turns on red are a common but variable feature in many jurisdictions. After a complete stop, a driver may turn right at a red light unless a sign or signal prohibits it or pedestrian crossings require waiting. Local rules govern these turns, and violations may incur penalties or hazards to pedestrians and other vehicles. In some areas, protected intersections or dedicated signals further regulate or restrict right turns to improve safety.

Infrastructure and traffic engineering influence how right turning is executed. Elements such as slip lanes, right-turn lanes, protected turn signals, and roundabouts can facilitate smoother and safer right turns. Urban design may also address safety concerns for vulnerable users, including sight lines, crosswalks, and street lighting.

See also: left turn, turn on red, right-of-way, roundabout, traffic safety.