North Carolina Motorcycle Red Light Law Explained

Ward Black Law | | Motorcycle Accidents
Traffic light showing red with a ‘No Turn on Red’ sign at a North Carolina intersection, illustrating motorcycle red light law rules.

Were you injured in a motorcycle crash at an intersection in North Carolina? The state’s motorcycle red light law could be a factor in your case.

Understanding North Carolina’s red light motorcycle law is essential for any motorcycle rider. Working with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer is vital for any rider who has been injured in a collision.

North Carolina’s Motorcycle Red Light Law Explained

Running a red light in NC is illegal under most circumstances. However, there is one notable exception for motorcycle riders, in addition to the right-on-red law that applies to drivers of other motor vehicles.

Many traffic lights throughout the state are vehicle-actuated signals controlled by an inductive loop that senses when a vehicle is waiting at a red light. If the sensor detects a vehicle, it will change the light from red to green after a set period. However, if the sensor does not identify a vehicle, the light will remain red.

In some cases, motorcycles do not trigger the sensor. When that occurs, North Carolina law allows the motorcycle rider to proceed through the red light in certain circumstances:

  • The rider came to a complete stop before entering the intersection.
  • A vehicle-actuated traffic signal sensor controls the intersection.
  • No other vehicle currently has the right of way.
  • No pedestrians are attempting to cross at or near the intersection.
  • The rider waited at least three minutes before proceeding.

Potential Penalties for Violating the Motorcycle Red Light Law

If the police pull you over for a red light violation in NC, you could receive a fine and points on your driver’s license. The exact fine depends on the seriousness of the NC traffic violation. For example, if you fail to yield the right of way to a pedestrian when running a red light, you could face a fine of between $100 and $500.

Liability Issues Related to Crashes Involving the Motorcycle Red Light Law

Getting into a crash after proceeding through a red light on a motorcycle could significantly affect a motorcycle accident case. It is the motorcyclist’s responsibility as a rider to make sure no other vehicles are coming before entering the intersection.

Under the contributory negligence rule North Carolina uses when determining liability, a motorcyclist could be barred from recovering any compensation if it is determined that the biker contributed to the accident in any way.

A motorcycle accident lawyer from Ward Black Law can gather the evidence necessary to prove you did not contribute to the crash so you can pursue the compensation you need.

How a North Carolina Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help

If you were injured in an accident after proceeding through a red traffic light on a motorcycle in North Carolina, you need a motorcycle accident lawyer who can work to protect your rights and help you seek the compensation you need through assertive legal representation.

At Ward Black Law, some of the ways our lawyers can assist are by:

  • Identifying the party or parties responsible for the red light collision
  • Gathering evidence to prove liability and support your case
  • Negotiating with the at-fault driver’s insurance provider
  • Representing your best interests in court

To get started with a free case review, contact our firm today. We will explain your rights and walk you through what to expect from your motorcycle accident case.