Kentucky’s right turn on red (RTOR) law has been a staple of state traffic regulations since 1974, allowing drivers to turn right at a red light under specific conditions. As of 2025, the core rules remain largely unchanged, but there are important details and reminders every Kentucky driver should know to ensure compliance and safety.
Key Rules for Right Turn on Red in Kentucky
- Permitted Unless Prohibited: Drivers may turn right on red at intersections unless there is a posted sign explicitly prohibiting the maneuver. If a “No Turn on Red” sign is present, you must wait for a green light before turning.
- Complete Stop Required: Before making a right turn on red, you must come to a complete stop at the marked stop line, before the crosswalk, or before entering the intersection if no markings are present. Rolling through the red light without stopping is illegal and dangerous.
- Yielding is Mandatory: After stopping, you must yield the right-of-way to all pedestrians in the crosswalk and to any oncoming traffic that has the green light or is otherwise lawfully proceeding through the intersection.
- Turn Signals: Kentucky law requires you to signal your intention to turn for at least the last 100 feet before the turn. This applies to all turns, including right turns on red.
Special Situations and Local Authority
- Left Turn on Red (One-Way Streets): Kentucky allows a left turn on red only from a one-way street onto another one-way street, provided there is no sign prohibiting it and all standard RTOR requirements are met.
- Multiple Turn Lanes: If there are two right turn lanes, you may turn right on red from either lane unless a regulatory sign specifically prohibits it.
- Local Ordinances: Cities and counties in Kentucky can enact stricter rules or outright prohibit right turns on red at specific intersections. Such prohibitions are only enforceable if an official sign is posted at the intersection.
2025 Updates and Reminders
As of 2025, there have been no major statewide changes to the RTOR law itself. However, increased attention is being paid to:
- Intersection Safety: With a continued rise in intersection-related accidents, law enforcement is emphasizing the importance of coming to a full stop and yielding properly before turning right on red.
- Local Regulations: Some local governments may introduce new ordinances or post additional “No Turn on Red” signs, especially in areas with high pedestrian traffic or accident rates. Drivers should be alert for signage changes in their communities.
- Special Purpose Vehicles: While not directly affecting RTOR, a new law (SB 63, effective June 27, 2025) allows certain special purpose vehicles to be street-legal in some Kentucky jurisdictions. These vehicles must comply with all traffic laws, including right turn on red rules, where permitted.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Failing to come to a complete stop before turning right on red.
- Not yielding to pedestrians or oncoming vehicles.
- Ignoring posted “No Turn on Red” signs.
- Failing to use a turn signal for at least 100 feet before the turn.
- Assuming RTOR is allowed at every intersection—always look for signage.
Kentucky Right Turn on Red (2025)
| Rule/Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Allowed? | Yes, unless a posted sign prohibits it |
| Complete Stop Required? | Yes, at stop line, crosswalk, or intersection |
| Yielding Required? | Yes, to pedestrians and oncoming traffic |
| Turn Signal Required? | Yes, for at least the last 100 feet before the turn |
| Local Bans Possible? | Yes, with posted signage |
| Left Turn on Red? | Only from one-way to one-way, if not prohibited by sign |
| Multiple Right Turn Lanes? | Allowed unless specifically prohibited by sign |
Always approach red lights with caution and be vigilant for changing local regulations or new signage. The right turn on red is a convenience, but safety and adherence to the law must come first. Kentucky’s 2025 rules reinforce the importance of stopping, yielding, and signaling—simple steps that save lives and prevent costly violations.
Sources:
- https://www.dickmanlawoffice.com/car-accidents/determining-responsibility-in-right-turn-on-red-car-accidents/
- https://www.grayandwhitelaw.com/library/kentucky-traffic-light-accidents-and-liability.cfm
- https://wbkr.com/kentucky-turn-signal-laws/
- https://kaco.org/articles/special-purpose-vehicles-will-soon-be-street-legal-in-parts-of-kentucky/
- https://codes.findlaw.com/ky/title-xvi-motor-vehicles/ky-rev-st-sect-189-338/
