North Dakota’s traffic laws have evolved to make driving safer and more efficient. One important rule drivers need to understand in 2025 is the Right Turn on Red regulation. This rule affects how drivers navigate intersections and helps improve traffic flow while ensuring pedestrian and vehicle safety. Here’s what you need to know about North Dakota’s Right Turn on Red rule updates in 2025.
What Is the Right Turn on Red Rule?
The Right Turn on Red rule allows drivers to turn right at a red traffic light after coming to a complete stop. This is permitted only when:
The way is clear of oncoming traffic.
There are no pedestrians crossing the streets.
There is no signage expressly prohibiting the turn.
This rule is designed to reduce wait times at intersections and improve traffic flow during red lights, provided it is done safely.
Key Requirements for Making a Right Turn on Red
In North Dakota, to legally make a right turn on red, drivers must follow these important steps:
Complete stop: Before making the turn, the vehicle must come to a complete stop at the designated stop line or before the crosswalk if no line is present. Rolling stops are illegal.
Yield to vehicles with the green light: Drivers must yield right of way to all other vehicles that have a green light, ensuring it is safe to turn.
Yield to pedestrians: Drivers must check for and yield to pedestrians crossing any crosswalk at or near the intersection.
Observe signs: Some intersections may have signs prohibiting a right turn on red. Drivers must obey these restrictions where posted.
2025 Updates in North Dakota Traffic Rules
As of May 1, 2025, the North Dakota Department of Transportation has implemented updates clarifying rules around traffic control devices and signaling for right turns on red. The updates emphasize the importance of driver caution and awareness at intersections, especially when making turns under a red signal.
The manual stresses that unless signage or signals indicate otherwise, turning right on red is allowed but must be executed cautiously with full adherence to stopping and yielding rules. This solidifies and codifies existing common practices and reinforces driver education around traffic signals.
Differences with Red Arrows and Traffic Signals
North Dakota laws clarify distinctions between general red lights and red arrow signals:
Red solid light: Right turn on red is generally allowed after a full stop unless restricted by signage.
Red arrow: Drivers facing a red arrow signal are typically not permitted to make a turn in the direction of the arrow. This rule remains strict to prevent confusion and maintain safety, though exceptions may exist where specific signage permits.
Drivers need to recognize and respond correctly to traffic light signals, including differences between solid red lights and red arrows.
Safety Considerations and Tips
Always come to a complete stop, never rolling through a red light.
Check for pedestrians thoroughly before turning.
Be cautious of other vehicles, especially those turning left or going straight.
Look for “No Turn on Red” signs posted at certain intersections.
Stay updated on local traffic laws and signage changes.
North Dakota’s 2025 traffic rule update on the Right Turn on Red reinforces strict guidelines for making legal and safe turns at red signals. Drivers must come to a complete stop, yield properly, and obey any prohibitive signage.
This rule contributes to smoother traffic flow while prioritizing the safety of both motorists and pedestrians. Understanding and following the updated Right Turn on Red rule ensures compliance with state law and helps prevent accidents at intersections.
By staying informed of changes and practicing caution, North Dakota drivers can navigate intersections confidently and safely under the 2025 traffic laws.
Sources
(https://www.dot.nd.gov/sites/www/files/documents/construction-and-planning/Traffic-Operations-Manual.pdf)
(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turn_on_red)
(https://www.pringlelaw.net/5-north-dakota-driving-laws-you-should-know/)
(https://www.dot.nd.gov/sites/www/files/documents/construction-and-planning/Traffic-Control-Requirements.pdf)
(https://internationaldriversassociation.com/blog/right-turn-red-laws-usa/)
