Michigan Traffic Rule 2025 Update: Understanding the Right Turn on Red Rule

Published On: August 21, 2025

Michigan Traffic Rule 2025 Update: Understanding the Right Turn on Red Rule

In Michigan, the right turn on red rule allows drivers to turn right at a red traffic light after coming to a complete stop—unless there is a sign explicitly prohibiting the turn. This rule has been part of Michigan’s traffic laws for decades and remains in effect in 2025, facilitating smoother flow of traffic and reducing unnecessary waiting times at intersections.

When Can You Turn Right on Red?

According to Michigan Vehicle Code (MCL 257.612), drivers may:

Turn right on a red light from a one-way or two-way street onto another one-way or two-way street.

Only turn right if there is no sign, signal, or marking prohibiting the turn.

Come to a full stop to check for pedestrians, bicyclists, and oncoming traffic before turning.

The rule promotes safety by balancing driver convenience with pedestrian right-of-way protections.

Changes in Policy: Standardizing Right Turn on Red

In early 2025, Michigan enacted a statewide standardization law for right turns on red (Public Act 12 of 2025), which:

Overrides most local bans on right turns on red.

Requires cities wishing to ban right turns on red to obtain approval from the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) after a safety study.

Maintains exceptions in school zones, high pedestrian areas, and intersections with safety concerns.

Doubles fines for failing to yield to pedestrians in school zones, starting at $150.

This move is intended to reduce traffic congestion statewide, although it has sparked debates between safety advocates and drivers.

Exceptions and Local Ordinances

Some cities, including Detroit and Ann Arbor, had previously imposed local bans on right turns on red at specific intersections due to pedestrian safety concerns. Under the 2025 update, these bans generally require MDOT review and approval to remain in place.

Drivers should continue to watch for and obey “No Turn on Red” signs, especially near schools, parks, and busy crosswalks.

Pedestrian Safety Considerations

The law emphasizes that drivers must yield to pedestrians and bicyclists before turning right on red. Pedestrian safety is a top concern, as studies show turning right on red accounts for a notable percentage of pedestrian accidents.

Larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs require extra caution because of bigger blind spots when making turns.

Tips for Drivers Under the New Rule

Always come to a full stop before making a right turn on red.

Carefully scan the intersection for pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles.

Yield the right of way to anyone crossing in the crosswalk or entering the intersection.

Obey local signage, particularly where right turns on red are restricted after MDOT approvals.

Be especially cautious near schools and heavily pedestrianized areas.

Michigan’s right turn on red law remains fundamentally the same in 2025 but is now part of a statewide framework that seeks to harmonize rules across cities and counties. While facilitating traffic flow, the law holds safety as paramount, requiring drivers to stop fully and yield to pedestrians.

Motorists should familiarize themselves with new signage or local regulations that may accompany MDOT-approved restrictions. By doing so, drivers in Michigan can navigate intersections confidently while prioritizing safety for all road users.