Missouri’s traffic rules involving right turns on red lights will not change from past years as of January 2025. The law still permits cars to make right turns at red lights, but there are a few crucial things that they should remember.
Right Turn on Red in Missouri
According to Missouri law, cars are allowed to turn right at red lights as long as they adhere to certain rules:
- Come to a complete stop: Before making a turn, drivers must first come to a complete stop.
- Yield to traffic and pedestrians: Before you continue, you must give way to cyclists, pedestrians, and cross traffic.
- Only turn when it is safe to do so: You should only make the turn when it is safe.
This rule applies to both red arrow signals and circular red lights. This maneuver is permitted by Missouri state law and local ordinances, including those in Springfield and Kansas City, unless there is a sign that specifically prohibits it.
Key Points to Keep in Mind
Although right turns on red are usually allowed, there are a few important things to keep in mind:
- No right turn on red: Some intersections may have signs that say you cannot turn right on red. You must always follow these signs.
- School zones: It is important to be extra careful near schools, especially while crossing guards are on duty.
- One-way streets: In Kansas City, cars are allowed to turn left on red when turning from one one-way street to another one-way street.
Comparison with Other Jurisdictions
It is important to point out that, whereas Missouri continues to allow right turns on red lights, other jurisdictions are going in a different direction:
- Washington, D.C.: Beginning on January 1, 2025, right turns on red will be prohibited at around half of the city’s junctions, unless there is a sign that specifically allows it.
- Atlanta, Georgia: The city intends to ban right turns on red in 2026.
Safety Comes First
Although Missouri permits right turns on red, it is important to consider safety. Although the regulation is intended to improve the flow of traffic, drivers are still need to be careful and make sound decisions. Make sure you come to a complete stop, look for pedestrians and bikes, and only continue when it is safe to do so.
Keep in mind that the ability to turn right on red is a luxury, not an obligation. If you are ever uncertain about whether it is safe to make a turn, it is always best to wait for the green light.
