In what scenario can you legally run a red light?

Running a red light is generally prohibited, but there are specific circumstances under which it is legally permissible to proceed through a red light. One of those scenarios is when making a right turn after coming to a complete stop, provided there are no signs indicating otherwise. In Virginia, the law allows drivers to make this right turn as long as they yield to any oncoming traffic and pedestrians.

This regulation is based on the principle of allowing traffic flow and maintaining safety, as long as drivers are attentive and yield to others who have the right of way. The act of stopping before the turn ensures that the driver is aware of their surroundings, making it a safer maneuver compared to simply running the light without stopping at all.

Other options presented do not align with the regulations regarding traffic signals and intersections. For example, making a left turn at a red light (if not from a one-way street to another one-way street) is generally not allowed, and running a red light just because traffic is clear or because there are no pedestrians present does not constitute a legal reason for disregarding the signal.