Turning right on a red light is permitted everywhere in Québec, except on the island of Montréal and in places where a sign prohibits it.
When turning right at a red light is prohibited only for a certain period, a small sign is attached below the sign.
Drivers’ Obligations
Before turning right at a red light, you must:
Stop your vehicle before the stop line or crosswalk;
Check for a sign prohibiting turning right at the red light;
Yield the way to other road users who are entering or about to enter the intersection; and
Make sure that there are no pedestrians or cyclists coming on your right.
Pedestrians always have the right of way if a light allows them to cross. If there is no pedestrian light, they have the right of way on the green light.
Watching out for other users
Turning right at a red light is a privilege. If you decide to do this, be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists.
Cyclist’s Obligations
When you ride a bicycle, you must follow the same rules as vehicle drivers when turning right on a red light.
Reasons for Prohibiting Turning Right at a Red Light
Signs prohibiting turning right at a red light may be posted at certain intersections for the following reasons:
insufficient visibility distance;
restricted lane width so that trucks and buses encroach on opposing lanes;
the unusual shape of the intersection;
there is a protected zone with a pedestrian light;
a significant number of pedestrians or cyclists crossing at the intersection;
the proximity of a railroad; and
a conflict between the right turn manoeuvre at a red light and the movements of visually impaired people.
Turning right on a red light is also prohibited if more than three accidents in the past 12-month period were caused by right turns.