As of 2025, Colorado drivers still generally can turn right at a red light after making a complete stop and yielding to both pedestrians and other vehicles. However, there are important clarifications and new trends both statewide and in larger cities that every driver should know:
Right on Red Remains Legal: Colorado law continues to allow right turns on red after stopping, except where prohibited by a posted sign or a red arrow light.
Red Arrows Mean No Turn: If you see a red right-turn arrow, you must remain stopped and cannot turn right until you get a green signal—even if there’s no sign.
Local Cities May Tighten Restrictions: Cities like Denver are considering, and in some areas already enacting, bans on right turns on red in high-pedestrian or high-traffic zones. These bans are accompanied by clear “No Turn on Red” signs at relevant intersections.
Why the Changes?
The push for stricter regulations comes from concerns for pedestrian and cyclist safety:
Rising Pedestrian Accidents: Studies have shown a significant increase in pedestrian and cyclist injuries involving vehicles turning right on red. Safety advocates note drivers often focus on checking for traffic from the left and may miss pedestrians coming from the right.
Vision Zero & City Safety Initiatives: Denver’s Vision Zero plan specifically targets high-traffic areas (e.g., downtown corridors) to improve pedestrian safety, recommending an end to right turns on red at critical locations.
How Does the Law Work Now?
Key Reminders
Always Check for Signs: Some intersections prohibit right on red—obey signs or signals.
Yield to Pedestrians: This is mandatory at every intersection.
Local Rules May Differ: Watch for increased restrictions, especially in Denver and other cities focused on pedestrian safety.
Fines and Enforcement
Violations: Running a red light or disobeying right-turn rules can lead to fines and points on your license—up to $100 or more, and four points for certain violations.
Red Light Cameras: Automated cameras may issue tickets for violations. These violations won’t add points to your license unless you’re cited by a police officer for running a red light.
Summary
Colorado still generally allows right turn on red after a full stop unless prohibited.
Watch for changes in Denver and possibly other cities where right on red will be banned in crowded pedestrian areas.
A red arrow always means no turn on red.
Always prioritize pedestrian safety and follow intersection signage.
Staying alert to these new rules and city-specific changes is crucial for all Colorado drivers in 2025.
Sources
[1] https://www.drivinglaws.org/resources/traffic-tickets/moving-violations/running-red-lights-and-stop–3
[2] https://www.denver7.com/traffic/driving-you-crazy/driving-you-crazy-can-i-turn-right-on-red-when-the-red-arrow-at-zuni-and-8th-ave-is-on
[3] https://www.durangoherald.com/articles/at-red-light-is-it-wrong-to-not-go-right/
[4] https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/news/right-turns-red-face-uncertain-future-denver/
[5] https://www.denver7.com/growing-number-of-cities-to-ban-right-turns-on-red-for-vehicles
