Mississippi’s traffic regulations for right turns on red lights have remained consistent in recent years, with the 2025 update reaffirming established practices while emphasizing safety and compliance. Understanding these rules is essential for drivers to navigate intersections lawfully and avoid penalties or accidents.
Key Provisions of the Right Turn on Red Rule
- Mandatory Complete Stop:
Before making a right turn at a red light, drivers must come to a complete stop at the marked stop line, before entering the crosswalk, or before entering the intersection if there is no line or crosswalk. Merely slowing down or yielding is not sufficient; the law explicitly requires a full stop. - Yielding Requirements:
After stopping, drivers must yield the right-of-way to:- Pedestrians lawfully within any adjacent crosswalk
- Other vehicles lawfully using the intersection
This means you cannot proceed with the turn if doing so would interfere with a pedestrian crossing or another vehicle already in the intersection.
- Prohibitions:
If there is a posted sign stating “No Turn On Red,” making a right turn on red at that intersection is strictly prohibited. These signs are typically placed at intersections with high pedestrian activity or limited visibility. - Cautious Entry:
The law requires that the turn be made “cautiously.” Even after stopping and yielding, drivers must ensure the intersection is clear and the turn can be made safely before proceeding.
Mississippi Right Turn on Red (2025)
| Step | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Stop | Full stop at line, crosswalk, or intersection before turning |
| Yield | Yield to pedestrians and vehicles already in intersection |
| Prohibited Turns | No turn if “No Turn On Red” sign is posted |
| Proceed | Enter intersection cautiously when safe |
| Penalties for Violations | Fines, points on license, possible liability in case of an accident |
Special Notes and Additional Rules
- Left Turn on Red (One-Way Streets):
Mississippi also allows a left turn on red from a one-way street onto another one-way street, following the same requirements: full stop, yield, and only if no sign prohibits the turn. - Pedestrian Safety:
The law places significant emphasis on pedestrian safety. Even if the intersection appears clear, drivers must double-check for pedestrians who may be crossing late or unexpectedly. - Red Arrow Signals:
A red arrow specifically prohibits turning in the direction of the arrow until it turns green. No right (or left) turn is allowed against a red arrow, regardless of signage. - Flashing Red Lights:
A flashing red light is treated as a stop sign. After stopping and yielding as required, you may proceed when safe.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Failing to make a complete stop before turning right on red
- Not yielding to pedestrians or other vehicles already in the intersection
- Ignoring “No Turn On Red” signs
- Turning right on red when facing a red arrow
- Proceeding without ensuring the turn can be made safely
Enforcement and Penalties
Violating the right turn on red rule can result in:
- Traffic citations and fines
- Points on your driving record
- Increased liability in the event of an accident
Law enforcement officers are trained to observe whether drivers make a full stop and yield appropriately. Camera enforcement may also be in place at some intersections.
Mississippi’s 2025 traffic rule update reaffirms that right turns on red are generally permitted, provided drivers make a complete stop, yield to pedestrians and other vehicles, and only proceed when it is safe and legal to do so. Always watch for posted signs and be especially vigilant for pedestrians to ensure compliance with state law and the safety of all road users.
Sources
- https://codes.findlaw.com/ms/title-63-motor-vehicles-traffic-regulations/ms-code-sect-63-3-309/
- https://law.justia.com/codes/mississippi/title-63/chapter-3/article-7/section-63-3-309/
- https://www.thelawyersthatlisten.com/get-the-facts-mississippi-car-accident-statistics-and-unique-traffic-laws/
- https://driversed.com/driving-information/signs-signals-and-markings/traffic-signals/
- https://www.driverservicebureau.dps.ms.gov/sites/default/files/2025-02/1.15.2025%20Revised%20MDPS%20Driver’s%20Manual.pdf
