Iowa’s traffic laws regarding right turns on red lights remain consistent in 2025, with clear rules designed to balance traffic flow and safety. Here’s what you need to know about making a right turn on red in Iowa, based on current statutes and official guidance.
Key Provisions of the Right Turn on Red Rule
- Complete Stop Required: Before making a right turn on red, drivers must come to a complete stop at the marked stop line, before the crosswalk, or before entering the intersection if there is no line or crosswalk.
- Right Turn Permitted Unless Prohibited: After stopping, drivers may turn right on red unless there is a posted sign indicating “NO TURN ON RED” or similar language.
- Yielding is Mandatory: Drivers must yield the right-of-way to all pedestrians and other vehicles lawfully in the intersection or crosswalk. Failing to yield can result in traffic violations or, in the event of an accident, legal liability.
- Cautious Entry: The law requires that the turn be made “cautiously,” ensuring that it does not interfere with or endanger other road users.
- Left Turn on Red (Special Case): Iowa law also allows a left turn on red, but only from a one-way street onto another one-way street, after a complete stop and yielding to others.
Legal References and Enforcement
The relevant law is found in Iowa Code section 321.257(a), which states:
“Vehicular traffic shall remain standing until a signal to proceed is shown, or vehicular traffic, unless prohibited by a sign, may cautiously enter the intersection to make a right turn from the right lane of traffic or another lane designated for right turns…”.
Violations-such as failing to stop, not yielding, or turning where prohibited-can result in fines, which typically total around $195 with surcharges and court costs. More severe consequences apply if the violation causes injury or death, including higher fines and possible license suspension.
Exceptions and Special Situations
- Signage: Always look for signs prohibiting right turns on red. These override the general rule.
- Pedestrian Safety: If pedestrians are present in the crosswalk, you must wait until the crosswalk is clear before turning.
- Automated Enforcement: Some intersections use red light cameras. These must be clearly marked, and violations can be contested in court.
Practical Tips for Drivers
- Always come to a full stop, even if the intersection appears clear.
- Check for “NO TURN ON RED” signs before proceeding.
- Yield to all pedestrians and oncoming vehicles.
- Make the turn only when it is safe and legal to do so.
Iowa Right Turn on Red
| Step | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Stop | Full stop before line/crosswalk/intersection |
| Sign Check | Ensure no “NO TURN ON RED” sign is posted |
| Yield | To pedestrians and all other vehicles |
| Proceed | Only when safe, legal, and clear of all traffic |
Understanding and following these rules helps keep Iowa’s roads safe and ensures you avoid unnecessary fines or legal issues. If you have questions about specific intersections or unique scenarios, feel free to ask for more details!
Sources:
- https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/321.257.pdf
- https://jsberrylaw.com/faqs/iowa-road-laws-liability-in-right-turn-auto-accidents/
- https://iowadot.gov/media/7310/download?inline=
- https://iowadot.gov/mvd/driverslicense/dlmanual/dlmanual.pdf
- https://www.drivinglaws.org/resources/iowa-red-light-stop-sign-tickets.html
