New York’s rules regarding right turns on red lights have long been a source of confusion, especially for drivers new to the state or visiting from elsewhere in the U.S. In 2025, it remains important for motorists to understand the nuances of these rules as they vary significantly between New York City and other parts of the state.
New York City: Right Turns on Red Are Generally Prohibited
One of the most notable distinctions in New York’s driving laws is the continued prohibition of right turns on red lights throughout almost the entirety of New York City. Since the legalization of right turns on red in other states in the 1970s, New York City has largely maintained a ban to prioritize the safety of its dense pedestrian population.
Exceptions are extremely limited and mostly apply to select intersections in Staten Island, where signage explicitly permits such turns. Without posted signs, turning right on red anywhere else in the city remains illegal and carries the risk of traffic tickets if violated.
Upstate and Suburban New York: General Permission with Conditions
Outside of New York City, including suburban and upstate areas, right turns on red lights are generally permitted but come with standard safety requirements:
It is important to watch for intersection-specific signs that may prohibit right turns on red for safety or traffic flow reasons. Ignoring these signs can lead to fines and points on the driving record.
Why Does New York City Maintain This Restriction?
The ban in NYC arises from concerns about pedestrian safety amid heavy foot traffic, complicated urban intersections, and high vehicle volumes. Studies have shown that right turns on red can increase the risk of collisions involving pedestrians and cyclists, especially when drivers fail to come to a full stop or do not adequately look for vulnerable road users.
Maintaining this ban reflects a city-wide emphasis on protecting pedestrians and improving overall traffic safety in an urban environment where space and sightlines often are limited.
What Happens if You Violate the Right Turn on Red Rules?
Violating the ban on right turns on red in New York City or ignoring “No Turn on Red” signs in other parts of the state can result in:
Best Practices for Drivers in New York
When in New York City, never assume a right turn on red is permitted without specific signage.
Upstate or suburban drivers should always come to a complete stop and yield before a right turn on red.
Pay careful attention to posted signs prohibiting the maneuver, particularly at busy intersections or near schools.
Stay informed about local traffic laws as some neighborhoods may add restrictions in high-risk areas.
In 2025, New York continues to stand apart with its strict ban on right turns on red throughout NYC, reinforcing pedestrian safety and cautious driving in one of the nation’s busiest urban centers. Elsewhere in the state, drivers may turn right after stopping and yielding unless prohibited by signage.
Understanding and respecting these regional differences helps drivers avoid fines and contributes to safer roadways for everyone—from bustling streets of Manhattan to suburban intersections in Albany and Buffalo. Always be alert, obey posted signage, and prioritize safety over convenience when navigating New York’s diverse traffic environments.
Sources
(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turn_on_red)
(https://www.thechampionfirm.com/blog/cities-banning-right-turn-on-red-at-traffic-lights/)
(https://internationaldriversassociation.com/blog/right-turn-red-laws-usa/)
(https://portal.311.nyc.gov/article/?kanumber=KA-01354)
(https://newyorktrafficticketlawyers.com/right-turn-on-red-in-nyc-legal-or-illegal/)
