Hinesville Police will write warning tickets to drivers who turn right on red at the intersection of Gen. Screven Way and West Oglethorpe Highway for few weeks.
After that, watch out.
According to HPD traffic investigator Mike Mooney, the problem at the heavily-traveled intersection is motorist don’t know the law regarding turn signals.
“The problem we have is they’re arrows, they’re not circular,” Mooney said. “You can turn on a solid red right on red, but you can’t turn on a red arrow.”
The officer cited Georgia traffic law, O.C.G.A. 40-6-21 that states, “Traffic, except pedestrians facing a steady red arrow signal indication may not enter the intersection to make movement indicated by such arrow and, unless entering the intersection to make such other movement as permitted by indications shown at the same time, shall stop at a clearly marked stop line or, if there is no stop line, before entering the crosswalk… and shall remain standing until an indication to make movement indicated by such arrow.”
The only exception, according to the law, is when you are directed by law enforcement personnel to move.
The arrow lights have been in use for many years and there are no signs at the intersection warning motorist that right on red at the intersection is illegal. There is no requirement to post signs, according to HPD traffic investigator Lt. Max McLendon.
“It is my understanding the city is in the process of acquiring signs to warn motorists that turning right on red at this intersection is illegal and will result in the issuance of a ticket if caught,” McLendon said.
Officers plan to write warnings to motorists who turn right on red until the intersection is clearly marked. McLendon said the enforcement is part of keeping motorists safe.
“We want to make the driving public aware of this law and to keep the motorist safe.”