left turn stoplight

Is It Ever Legal to Turn Left on a Red Light in Michigan?

While we know that turning right on a red light in Michigan depends on the intersection and signage, you may be wondering if there is ever a time when it’s legal to turn left on a red light? Yes, under certain circumstances. 

Under What Circumstances Are You Allowed to Turn Left on a Red Light in MI?

You are allowed to turn left on a red light in Michigan under certain circumstances:

You can turn left on a red light in Michigan if you are turning from a one-way or two-way street onto a one-way street and the traffic that you would be turning onto is going the same direction as your left turn. You are prohibited from turning left on a red light when the street that you would be turning onto goes two ways. 

You must also stop before entering the intersection. 

Remember You Never Have the Right of Way

However, it’s extremely important to remember that when turning left on a red light you never have the right of way. That belongs to pedestrians, bicyclists, and other drivers who are using the street at the time. 

If there are any pedestrians or bicyclists who are legally in the crosswalk on the street that you would be making a left onto, you must yield to the, as well as other vehicles that are driving on the street you are turning onto. 

If you are at an intersection that has a sign, signal, light, marking, or any other device that says making a left on red is prohibited, you may not do so. This sign must be located above or adjacent to the traffic control signal or as close as possible to the point where the turn is made (or in both directions). Put simply, it’s important that at least one of these signs is visible to the driver who would be turning. 

The Attorneys at Miller & Tischler, P.C. Can Help

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident as a driver, bicyclist, or pedestrian, you should not have to be bear the burden alone. When you are already dealing with so much, the last thing that you want to do is to have to worry about tackling the legalities of your situation.

The Michigan car accident attorneys at Miller & Tischler, P.C. can help you to fight for the compensation that you deserve. We understand the seriousness of your injury and the physical, emotional, and financial hardships that you have endured and will continue to endure. We can help you to gather the necessary evidence and build a case to help you receive the most optimal outcome. We’ll help you fight for the compensation that you deserve. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today!