As of February 19, 2025, there have been no significant updates to Vermont’s traffic rules regarding right turns on red. The existing regulations for turning at intersections, including right turns, remain in effect. Let’s review the current rules for right turns in Vermont, which have been consistent for several years.
Right Turn Rules in Vermont
General Right Turn Procedure
When making a right turn at an intersection in Vermont, drivers must follow a specific procedure:
- Approach the turn as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway.
- Execute the right turn while staying close to the right-hand curb or edge.
This rule ensures that right turns are made safely and predictably, minimizing the risk of conflicts with other road users.
Right Turn on Red
While the search results don’t explicitly mention the right turn on red rule, it’s important to note that Vermont, like most U.S. states, generally allows right turns on red unless otherwise posted. However, drivers must follow these guidelines:
- Come to a complete stop at the red light.
- Yield to pedestrians, cyclists, and oncoming traffic.
- Proceed with the right turn only when it is safe to do so.
Flashing Yellow Arrow Signals
Vermont has implemented flashing yellow arrow signals at some intersections, which can affect turning procedures. Here’s what drivers need to know:
- A flashing yellow arrow indicates that drivers may proceed with caution after yielding to oncoming traffic and pedestrians.
- When the flashing yellow arrow changes to a steady yellow, it is about to turn red, and drivers should prepare to stop.
Safety Considerations
When making right turns, especially on red, drivers should:
- Check for “No Turn on Red” signs, which may be present at certain intersections.
- Be aware of potential “hidden drives” near intersections, which may require extra caution.
- Watch for pedestrians and cyclists, particularly in urban areas or near schools.
Reporting Issues
If drivers encounter problems related to traffic signals or signs that may affect turning procedures, they can report these issues to the Vermont Agency of Transportation. The agency provides resources for reporting:
- Malfunctioning traffic signals
- Damaged or obsolete signs
- Issues in work zones that may impact turning
While there haven’t been significant updates to Vermont’s right turn rules in 2025, it’s crucial for drivers to remain familiar with the existing regulations. Right turns should be executed from the rightmost lane, staying close to the curb.
Right turns on red are generally permitted unless signs indicate otherwise, but drivers must always prioritize safety by coming to a complete stop, yielding to other road users, and proceeding only when it’s safe to do so.
As traffic patterns and infrastructure evolve, it’s advisable for Vermont drivers to stay informed about any future updates to traffic rules by regularly checking the Vermont Agency of Transportation website or other official state resources.
Sources:
- https://vtrans.vermont.gov/operations/technical-services/tsmo/traffic-operations/faqs
- https://www.theticketclinic.com/states/vermont/
- https://law.justia.com/codes/vermont/title-23/chapter-13/section-1061/
- https://legislature.vermont.gov/statutes/fullchapter/23/013
