In Illinois, the rules regarding right turns on red lights remain largely consistent in 2025, but ongoing discussions and safety campaigns have brought renewed attention to the law and its enforcement. Understanding the specifics of this rule is essential for safe and legal driving.
When Is a Right Turn on Red Allowed?
- After coming to a complete stop at a red light, Illinois drivers may turn right unless:
- There is a posted sign prohibiting the turn.
- Local ordinances specifically ban the maneuver at that intersection.
- The driver must yield the right of way to:
- All other vehicles already in the intersection or approaching closely enough to be a hazard.
- All pedestrians in the intersection or adjacent crosswalk.
Key Steps for a Legal Right Turn on Red
- Stop Completely: You must come to a full stop at the stop line, before the crosswalk, or before entering the intersection if no markings are present.
- Check for Prohibitive Signs: Look for any signs that state “No Turn on Red.” These override the general rule and must be obeyed.
- Yield to Others: Give the right of way to crossing pedestrians and any vehicles in or approaching the intersection.
- Proceed with Caution: Only turn when it is safe, and the path is clear of immediate hazards.
Special Considerations
- Red Arrows: If the traffic signal displays a steady red arrow, turning in the direction of the arrow is strictly prohibited, regardless of traffic or pedestrian presence.
- Local Ordinances: Municipalities and local authorities can enact stricter rules, including total bans on right turns on red at specific intersections.
- Left Turn on Red: Illinois law also allows a left turn on red from a one-way street onto another one-way street, after a complete stop and yielding as required.
Safety and Enforcement Trends
Recent years have seen increased scrutiny of the right turn on red rule due to a rise in pedestrian fatalities. National and state-level discussions are considering stricter regulations or outright bans in some areas, particularly in urban settings where pedestrian traffic is heavy. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety found that pedestrian deaths are significantly higher when vehicles-especially larger ones like SUVs and pickups-turn right on red.
Historical Context
The right turn on red became widespread in Illinois and across the U.S. after the 1970s oil crisis, as a fuel-saving measure. However, with changing urban environments and safety priorities, the rule’s future is under review in some jurisdictions.
Right Turn on Red in Illinois (2025)
| Situation | Allowed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| No sign, after full stop | Yes | Must yield to vehicles/pedestrians |
| “No Turn on Red” sign present | No | Obey posted sign |
| Steady red arrow | No | Turn in arrow’s direction prohibited |
| Local ordinance bans right turn on red | No | Check for local rules |
| Left turn from one-way to one-way on red | Yes | After full stop and yielding |
Illinois drivers can generally turn right on red after a complete stop and yielding, unless prohibited by signs or local rules. However, increased attention to pedestrian safety may lead to more restrictions in the future. Always check for signage and stay alert to changes in local laws to ensure compliance and safety.
Would you like more details on proposed changes or local variations to this rule?
Sources:
- https://www.ilsos.gov/publications/pdf_publications/dsd_a112.pdf
- https://www.sjtpolaw.com/blog/2019/06/is-it-always-legal-to-turn-right-at-a-red-light/
- https://1440wrok.com/banning-right-turn-on-red-in-illinois-heres-why-it-could-happen/
- https://illinoiscarlaws.com/right-of-way-laws/
- https://codes.findlaw.com/il/chapter-625-vehicles/il-st-sect-625-5-11-306/
