West Virginia permits right turns on red after a full stop, with no major 2026 updates altering this longstanding rule. The right-on-red provision remains under West Virginia Code §17C-3-5, allowing drivers to cautiously turn after yielding, unless signs or signals prohibit it.
Core Rule
Drivers facing a steady red light must come to a complete stop at the crosswalk or intersection entrance before turning right, yielding to pedestrians and oncoming traffic proceeding lawfully.
Local authorities can ban it via ordinance with posted signs, common in high-pedestrian or congested areas.
Key Restrictions
No right turn on a red arrow, even after stopping—wait for green. “No Turn on Red” signs override permission; violations draw tickets, points, and potential crash liability.
Enforcement and Penalties
Failure to stop fully or yield risks citations for running a red light or failure to yield (fines ~$100-$300 plus court costs). In crashes, violators often face full fault.
| Scenario | Allowed? | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Steady red light | Yes | Full stop, yield to peds/traffic, no prohibiting sign |
| Red arrow | No | Wait for green |
| Posted “No Turn” | No | Obey sign regardless |
| One-way street (left turn) | Yes (if safe) | Similar yield rules apply |
2026 Status
No statewide changes reported for 2026; rules mirror prior years. Check local signage, especially in cities like Charleston or Huntington, and prioritize caution to avoid pedestrian risks.
SOURCES:
- https://www.forbeslawwv.com/2025/06/24/when-can-you-turn-right-on-a-red-light/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/nova/comments/1cqhmcl/did_va_law_change_in_regards_to_making_a_right/
