The right turn on red (RTOR) rule is a key aspect of Kansas traffic law, allowing drivers to make efficient and safe turns at intersections. The 2025 update to Kansas traffic statutes reaffirms and clarifies the requirements and exceptions for making a right turn on red, ensuring both driver convenience and public safety.
What Is the Right Turn on Red Rule in Kansas?
Kansas law permits drivers to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop, unless a sign specifically prohibits such a turn. This rule applies to both steady red circular signals and steady red arrows, treating them equivalently for the purpose of right turns.
Step-by-Step: How to Legally Turn Right on Red
- Stop First: Drivers must come to a complete stop at the stop line. If there is no marked stop line, stop before entering the crosswalk, or if none, before entering the intersection itself.
- Check for Prohibitive Signs: Look for any posted signs that state “No Turn on Red.” If such a sign is present, a right turn on red is not allowed.
- Yield to Traffic and Pedestrians: After stopping, the driver must yield the right-of-way to:
- Any vehicles already in the intersection or approaching closely enough to pose a hazard.
- Pedestrians lawfully crossing within an adjacent crosswalk.
- Proceed with Caution: Only after ensuring it is safe and yielding as required, the driver may cautiously enter the intersection and make the right turn.
Special Considerations and Exceptions
- Red Arrow Signals: In Kansas, a steady red arrow has the same legal effect as a steady red circle. Drivers may turn right on a red arrow after stopping and yielding, unless prohibited by signage.
- Left Turn on Red (One-Way Streets): The law also allows a left turn on red from a one-way street onto another one-way street, following the same stop and yield requirements.
- Motorcycles and Bicycles: If a red signal fails to detect a motorcycle or bicycle (due to size or weight), and does not change to green within a reasonable period, the rider may proceed through the red light after stopping and yielding, provided it is safe to do so.
Key Safety and Legal Points
- No Turn on Red Where Prohibited: Always obey posted signs. If a sign prohibits right turns on red, you must wait for a green signal.
- Yielding Is Mandatory: Failing to yield to pedestrians or oncoming traffic can result in traffic citations and increase the risk of collisions.
- Cautious Entry: The law emphasizes that entry into the intersection must be cautious, not rushed.
- Pedestrian Priority: Pedestrians in the crosswalk have the right-of-way over vehicles turning right on red.
Right Turn on Red in Kansas (2025)
| Signal Type | Allowed to Turn Right on Red? | Conditions/Exceptions |
|---|---|---|
| Steady Red Circle | Yes | Must stop, yield to traffic/pedestrians, unless prohibited by sign |
| Steady Red Arrow | Yes | Same as above; treated like red circle |
| Prohibitive Sign | No | Must wait for green signal |
Practical Tips for Drivers
- Always come to a full stop, even if the intersection appears clear.
- Double-check for pedestrians, especially in urban or high-traffic areas.
- Be alert for oncoming vehicles or cyclists that may have the right-of-way.
- Do not assume all intersections allow right turns on red; check for signage.
The 2025 Kansas traffic rule update maintains the long-standing allowance for right turns on red, with clear requirements to stop, yield, and proceed only when safe. The law applies equally to red arrows and red circles, and provides specific guidance for unique situations such as one-way streets and undetected motorcycles or bicycles. By following these rules, drivers can ensure both legal compliance and roadway safety.
Sources:
- https://codes.findlaw.com/ks/chapter-8-automobiles-and-other-vehicles/ks-st-sect-8-1508/
- https://www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch08/008_015_0008.html
- https://www.yahoo.com/news/turn-red-arrow-signal-kansas-182535767.html
- https://www.kslegislature.gov/li_2022/b2021_22/statute/008_000_0000_chapter/008_015_0000_article/008_015_0008_section/008_015_0008_k/
- https://www.ksrevenue.gov/pdf/dlhb.pdf
