Connecticut’s traffic laws allow drivers to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop and ensuring it is safe to proceed. This rule has been a longstanding part of the state’s traffic regulations and remains in effect under the 2025 updates. Importantly, drivers must yield the right of way to pedestrians and other traffic lawfully using the intersection before executing the turn.
Key Requirements for Making a Right Turn on Red
To legally make a right turn on red in Connecticut, the following conditions must be met:
The vehicle must come to a full stop before the crosswalk or intersection.
The driver must check for oncoming vehicles and pedestrians who may be crossing.
The turn may only be made if no sign prohibits it. Some intersections have specific “No Turn on Red” signs, which drivers must obey.
The turn must be made cautiously, yielding appropriately to other road users.
Changes and Clarifications in the 2025 Update
The 2025 update to Connecticut traffic laws primarily clarifies and reinforces existing rules rather than changing the core right turn on red law. It emphasizes uniformity and pedestrian safety. The law instructs municipal authorities and the Department of Transportation to carefully review intersections and install “No Turn on Red” signs where right turns could compromise safety.
What About Red Arrow Signals?
A critical clarification in 2025 is the distinction concerning red arrow signals. A red arrow displayed at a right turn lane means a driver must not turn right on red at that specific signal, regardless of whether a “No Turn on Red” sign is present. Right turns on red arrows are prohibited to improve safety and reduce confusion at complex intersections.
Increased Penalties for Failure to Yield
The 2025 update also increases penalties related to failure to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. The maximum fine for drivers who do not yield has risen from $500 to $750, underlining the state’s commitment to pedestrian safety. This is relevant for right-on-red turns, where drivers must be particularly vigilant to avoid endangering pedestrians.
Safety Tips for Drivers Making a Right Turn on Red
Always stop fully and look carefully in all directions.
Yield to pedestrians and allow sufficient time for them to cross.
Do not proceed if there are signs prohibiting the turn.
Obey red arrows in the turn lanes—they prohibit turning on red.
Be patient and cautious, especially at busy or unfamiliar intersections.
Impact of the Rule on Traffic Flow
Allowing right turns on red helps reduce congestion and improve traffic flow, provided it is done safely. Connecticut’s rules balance convenience with public safety by permitting turns after yielding and stopping, while restricting them where it would cause danger.
What Connecticut Drivers Need to Know for 2025
The right turn on red rule in Connecticut remains largely unchanged in 2025, but with clearer guidance around red arrow signals and heightened penalties for failing to yield to pedestrians. Drivers should continue to follow well-established practices: stop completely, check for traffic and pedestrians, obey signs and signals, and prioritize safety.
Understanding these updates helps drivers navigate intersections safely and lawfully while benefiting from the flexibility of the right turn on red rule to minimize delays and keep traffic moving smoothly.
Sources
(https://law.justia.com/codes/connecticut/title-14/chapter-249/section-14-299/)
(https://portal.ct.gov/dmv/-/media/dmv/dmv-pdfs/drivers-manual-english.pdf)
(https://www.reddit.com/r/Connecticut/comments/16hr34s/can_you_turn_right_on_red_when_theres_a_red_arrow/)
(https://www.cga.ct.gov/2025/rpt/pdf/2025-R-0107.pdf)
(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turn_on_red)
