Right turns on red lights have been a staple of Illinois driving for decades, but with rising pedestrian safety concerns and evolving local ordinances, every driver should understand how the rule works in 2025. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the current law, its exceptions, and what to watch for as you travel Illinois roads.
The Current Law: Right Turn on Red
As of July 2025, Illinois law continues to allow right turns on red at most intersections, provided drivers follow these essential steps:
Come to a Complete Stop: Before turning, you must come to a full stop at the marked stop line, crosswalk, or before entering the intersection.
Yield to Traffic and Pedestrians: Yield to all oncoming vehicles and, most importantly, to any pedestrians in the crosswalk.
Obey Posted Signs: If a sign at the intersection prohibits a right turn on red, you must wait for the green light. These signs are commonly found in areas with high pedestrian traffic, such as downtown Chicago or near schools.
Red Arrow Rule: A right turn on a red arrow is always prohibited, regardless of traffic or pedestrian presence.
Local Variations and New Developments
While the statewide rule remains in effect, local governments have the authority to further restrict right turns on red at specific intersections. This is especially true in urban areas with heavy foot traffic, where pedestrian safety is a top concern:
Chicago’s Approach: Chicago’s city administration has announced plans to restrict right turns on red at more intersections, but as of mid-2025, there is no citywide ban. Drivers should expect more “No Turn on Red” signs to appear, especially downtown and near busy crosswalks.
Other Municipalities: Suburbs and other Illinois cities may also implement their own restrictions. Always check for posted signs and stay alert to local ordinances.
Why the Rule Matters: Pedestrian Safety
The push for stricter right-on-red rules is driven by a national rise in pedestrian deaths. In 2022, over 7,500 pedestrians were killed by vehicles in the U.S.—the highest number since 1981. Studies show that the risk of fatality is significantly higher when pedestrians are struck by vehicles making right turns, especially larger vehicles like SUVs and pickups.
What Drivers Should Do
To stay safe and compliant under the 2025 rules:
Always stop completely before turning right on red.
Yield to all pedestrians and oncoming traffic.
Watch for and obey “No Turn on Red” signs—these override the general rule.
Be especially cautious in urban areas, near schools, and at busy intersections.
Stay informed about local ordinances, as city-specific rules may change before statewide laws do.
Quick Reference Table
| Rule/Condition | Requirement in 2025 |
|---|---|
| Right turn on red allowed? | Yes, unless posted otherwise |
| Complete stop required? | Yes |
| Yield to pedestrians/traffic? | Yes |
| Red arrow—right turn allowed? | No |
| Local restrictions possible? | Yes, check for signs |
Looking Ahead
While right turns on red remain legal in most of Illinois, the trend is toward increased restrictions in urban areas, particularly in response to pedestrian safety concerns. Expect more intersections—especially in Chicago and other large cities—to prohibit right turns on red in the coming years.
Staying alert, following posted signs, and yielding to pedestrians are key to both compliance and safety under the evolving rules.
Sources
[1] https://thewrangler.com/illinois-new-rule-on-right-turns-at-red-lights-everything-drivers-need-to-know/2025/06/22/
[2] https://mywaynecountynow.com/illinois-new-rule-on-right-turns-at-red-lights-everything-drivers-need-to-know/
[3] https://local.newsbreak.com/news/4090919270456-illinois-traffic-rule-2025-update-understanding-the-right-turn-on-red-rule
[4] https://1440wrok.com/will-illinois-ban-right-turn-on-red/
[5] https://www.ilsos.gov/publications/pdf_publications/dsd_a112.pdf
