In Missouri, the Right Turn on Red (RTOR) law allows drivers to make a right turn at a red traffic light after coming to a complete stop, unless posted signs indicate otherwise.
This law, already in place in many states, has been updated for 2025, and it’s essential for drivers to understand the updated guidelines to avoid penalties or accidents.
Key Points About the Right Turn on Red Rule in Missouri
- When You Can Make a Right Turn on Red:
- Come to a Complete Stop: Before making a right turn on red, drivers must come to a complete stop at the stop line or before entering the crosswalk or intersection.
- Ensure It’s Safe: After stopping, the driver must yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians. If there are no pedestrians or vehicles approaching, the driver can proceed with the right turn safely.
- Come to a Complete Stop: Before making a right turn on red, drivers must come to a complete stop at the stop line or before entering the crosswalk or intersection.
- When You Cannot Make a Right Turn on Red:
- Signs Indicating No Right Turn: Look for posted signs at intersections that say “No Turn on Red“. These signs restrict right turns when the light is red, usually due to high traffic or pedestrian safety concerns.
- Restricted Intersections: Some intersections are specifically designed with restrictions on turns for safety reasons, such as areas with heavy pedestrian traffic or poor visibility.
- Signs Indicating No Right Turn: Look for posted signs at intersections that say “No Turn on Red“. These signs restrict right turns when the light is red, usually due to high traffic or pedestrian safety concerns.
- Additional Changes in 2025:
- Increased Awareness Campaigns: The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) has been focusing on driver education around RTOR, urging drivers to be more cautious and aware of pedestrians, particularly in busy urban areas.
- Focus on Pedestrian Safety: The updated law places an emphasis on pedestrian safety, encouraging drivers to double-check crosswalks and ensure that pedestrians are not crossing before making the right turn.
- Increased Awareness Campaigns: The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) has been focusing on driver education around RTOR, urging drivers to be more cautious and aware of pedestrians, particularly in busy urban areas.
Penalties for Violating the Rule
If a driver violates the Right Turn on Red law in Missouri, they could face a traffic citation and potential fines. If the violation leads to an accident or pedestrian injury, the penalties can be more severe, including increased fines or even criminal charges depending on the situation.
The Right Turn on Red rule in Missouri has been a part of traffic laws for many years, but the 2025 update stresses the importance of safety, particularly in urban areas.
Remember to stop fully, check for pedestrians, and follow any posted signs at intersections to ensure you’re complying with the law and keeping everyone safe on the road.
