In Illinois, drivers have been permitted to make a right turn at a red light for nearly fifty years, provided they first come to a complete stop and yield to all other vehicles and pedestrians.
This rule, introduced in the 1970s during the oil crisis, was designed to save fuel and reduce traffic congestion by minimizing idle time at intersections. The law remains in effect statewide, but with several important conditions that every driver must follow.
Key Requirements for Turning Right on Red
To legally turn right on red in Illinois, a driver must always come to a complete stop before the intersection. After stopping, the driver must yield to all oncoming traffic and, crucially, to any pedestrians in the crosswalk. If there is a posted sign at the intersection prohibiting a right turn on red, drivers must obey the sign and wait for the green light before proceeding. Additionally, Illinois law distinguishes between a standard red light and a red arrow: turning right on a red arrow is always prohibited, regardless of traffic or pedestrian presence.
Local Variations and New Developments
Local governments in Illinois have the authority to further restrict right turns on red at specific intersections, particularly in areas with heavy pedestrian activity. For example, Chicago’s city administration has announced plans to “restrict right turns on red,” but as of mid-2025, no city-wide ban or detailed implementation has been finalized.
This means drivers in Chicago and other municipalities should always watch for posted signs and be aware of local ordinances that may override the general state law.
Safety Concerns and the Push for Change
The movement to restrict or ban right turns on red in Illinois is driven by concerns over pedestrian safety. Nationally, pedestrian deaths have risen, with over 7,500 pedestrians killed by vehicles in 2022—the highest number since 1981.
Studies have shown that the risk of fatality is significantly higher when pedestrians are struck by vehicles making right turns, especially larger vehicles like SUVs and pickups. These safety concerns have prompted some cities and states to reconsider the right-on-red rule and propose stricter regulations.
What Drivers Should Do
Illinois drivers should continue to follow the existing law: always stop completely, yield to all traffic and pedestrians, and check for any signs prohibiting a right turn on red.
In cities like Chicago, be alert for new restrictions that may be introduced in the near future. Failing to comply with these rules can result in traffic violations and, more seriously, accidents that endanger pedestrians and other road users.
While right turns on red are still generally allowed in Illinois as of mid-2025, drivers must remain vigilant about local rules and potential changes, especially in urban areas prioritizing pedestrian safety.
Sources
[1] https://mywaynecountynow.com/illinois-new-rule-on-right-turns-at-red-lights-everything-drivers-need-to-know/
[2] https://www.kfkllaw.com/illinois-injury-lawyers/should-illinois-ban-the-right-on-red-law
[3] https://idot.illinois.gov/travel-information/roadway-information/driver-information/share-the-road/pedestrians.html
[4] https://www.sjtpolaw.com/blog/2019/06/is-it-always-legal-to-turn-right-at-a-red-light/
[5] https://1440wrok.com/will-illinois-ban-right-turn-on-red/
