Ask Trooper Steve: Left on red?

News 6's Steve Montiero answers viewer questions

ORLANDO, Fla. – Making a right on red, in most cases, is a fairly simple task to do. But what about making a left on red?

Terry, of Holly Hill, asked News 6 Traffic Safety Expert Steve Montier, "When making a left turn and your signal is red, when, if ever, are you allowed to make a left-hand turn?"

"In Florida, when you are in the left-turn lane and your traffic signal displays either a left red arrow or a solid red light, you are required to stop and stay there until the light turns green," Montiero said. 

He added, however, that there are exceptions. 

"The only time when you can make a legal left turn at a red light is when there is a sign stating left turns are allowed on red," Montiero said. "Usually, these will take place in an area where you are making a left turn onto a one-way street and all the traffic is moving in one direction."

A yellow flashing light allows drivers to make a left turn, with the caveat of being cautious and yielding to oncoming traffic or anyone else who has the right-of-way.

If you have a traffic question for Trooper Steve, email him at asktroopersteve@wkmg.com.

 


About the Authors

Steven Montiero, better known as “Trooper Steve," joined the News 6 morning team as its Traffic Safety Expert in October 2017. A Central Florida native and decorated combat veteran, Montiero comes to the station following an eight-year assignment with the Florida Highway Patrol.

Daniel started with WKMG-TV in 2000 and became the digital content manager in 2009. When he's not working on ClickOrlando.com, Daniel likes to head to the beach or find a sporting event nearby.

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