Overview of the Right Turn on Red Rule
The “right turn on red” (RTOR) rule is a well-established traffic regulation in the United States, including New Jersey, that permits vehicles to make a right turn at a red traffic signal after coming to a complete stop, provided the way is clear and unless otherwise prohibited by signage or specific local rules. This rule originated in the 1970s as a fuel-saving measure and remains a standard part of traffic law across most of North America.
Current Law in New Jersey (2025)
Basic Requirements
- Full Stop: Drivers must come to a complete stop at the red light before attempting a right turn. Proceeding without stopping is a violation, regardless of traffic conditions.
- Yielding: After stopping, drivers must yield to all other vehicles and pedestrians who have the right of way. This includes checking for oncoming traffic from the left, as well as any pedestrians crossing the intersection.
- Signage Restrictions: The right turn on red is not permitted if a posted sign explicitly prohibits it. Intersections where a right turn on red is deemed unsafe (such as those with heavy pedestrian traffic or complex layouts) will have “No Turn on Red” signs.
- Special Circumstances: Some vehicles, such as school buses or those carrying hazardous materials, may be subject to stricter rules and are often prohibited from turning on red under any circumstances.
Statutory Basis
New Jersey Revised Statutes Section 39:4-105 governs traffic signals and the color system. The law states that a red signal requires traffic to stop before entering the intersection or crosswalk and remain stopped until the signal changes to green, unless otherwise directed by an officer, official sign, or special signal. The statute also clarifies that turning movements (right or left) are only permitted if not specifically limited by signage or other controls.
Key Points for Drivers in 2025
- Red Light = Stop: Always come to a full stop at a red light, regardless of your intended movement.
- Check for Prohibitions: Look for “No Turn on Red” signs. If present, you must wait for the green signal before turning.
- Yield to Others: Yield to all cross traffic and pedestrians before making your turn.
- Penalties for Violations: Running a red light or failing to yield properly can result in fines, points on your driving record, and even jail time if your actions lead to a crash causing injury.
Comparison Table: Right Turn on Red in New Jersey vs. Other States
| Feature | New Jersey (2025) | Most Other U.S. States |
|---|---|---|
| Full stop required | Yes | Yes |
| Allowed unless prohibited by sign | Yes | Yes |
| Must yield to vehicles/pedestrians | Yes | Yes |
| Special restrictions (e.g., buses) | Yes | Yes |
| Left turn on red (one-way to one-way) | No (prohibited) | Allowed in many states |
| Penalties for violations | Fines, points, possible jail time | Fines, points, possible jail time |
Recent Trends and Safety Considerations
In recent years, some U.S. cities have moved to restrict or ban right turns on red at certain intersections to improve pedestrian safety. While New Jersey has not enacted a statewide ban, drivers should expect to see more intersections with “No Turn on Red” signs, especially in urban areas with high pedestrian traffic.
Practical Tips for Compliance
- Always scan for posted signs before turning.
- Double-check for pedestrians and cyclists, especially in city environments.
- Do not assume the right turn on red is always allowed—local exceptions may apply.
- Remember that left turns on red are not permitted in New Jersey, even from one-way to one-way streets2.
The right turn on red rule in New Jersey continues to allow drivers to turn right at red lights after stopping and yielding, except where specifically prohibited. Awareness of signage, strict adherence to yielding requirements, and understanding the penalties for violations are essential for safe and lawful driving in 2025
Sources:
- https://law.justia.com/codes/new-jersey/title-39/section-39-4-105/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turn_on_red
- https://www.lynchlawyers.com/blog/new-jersey-red-light-runners-and-liability/
- https://morrisfocus.com/2024/04/24/insightful-update-new-jersey-traffic-regulation-shifts-emphasis-to-right-turn-on-red/
- https://nj.gov/transportation/refdata/rlr/faq.shtm
