As of 2025, Colorado continues to permit right turns on red lights statewide, but with growing debate and local efforts—especially in Denver—aimed at restricting or banning the practice in certain areas for pedestrian and cyclist safety. Understanding the current law, its exceptions, and the evolving landscape is essential for all Colorado drivers.
Current Statewide Rule
- Colorado law allows drivers to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop, provided they yield to all pedestrians and oncoming traffic.
- The law does not require drivers to turn right on red; it only permits it. Drivers may wait for the light to turn green if they feel it is unsafe to proceed, regardless of pressure from other motorists.
- Local jurisdictions can prohibit right turns on red at specific intersections. If so, “No Turn on Red” signs must be posted clearly at those locations.
Key Safety Requirements
- Complete Stop: Drivers must come to a full stop before the crosswalk or limit line.
- Yielding: Right-of-way must always be given to pedestrians in the crosswalk and to vehicles with a green signal.
- Red Arrow Exception: In Colorado, a right turn on red is prohibited when a red arrow is displayed, even if a standard red light would otherwise permit a turn.
Local Developments: The Denver Example
- Denver is actively considering a ban on right turns on red in high-injury corridors and downtown areas due to rising pedestrian and cyclist accidents.
- The city’s Vision Zero plan already calls for ending right-on-red in certain high-traffic zones, and a mayoral transition committee has recommended a citywide ban.
- Such a ban would require approval from the Denver City Council and, if enacted, would be clearly marked with signage at affected intersections.
- The debate centers on safety versus convenience: studies show that right turns on red can increase pedestrian and cyclist crashes, while some drivers argue that bans would cause minor delays and increased idling.
National Context
- The right turn on red rule was widely adopted in the U.S. during the 1970s as a fuel-saving measure and is permitted in all 50 states except where specifically prohibited by signage or local ordinances.
- Some major cities, including Washington D.C. (effective 2025), Ann Arbor, and parts of New York City, have implemented or are planning bans in response to safety concerns.
Colorado Right Turn on Red (2025)
| Rule/Location | Status in 2025 |
|---|---|
| Statewide (general) | Permitted after stop & yield |
| With red arrow | Prohibited |
| Where “No Turn on Red” sign posted | Prohibited |
| Denver (proposed, not yet law) | Ban under consideration |
What Drivers Should Remember
- Always stop completely and check for pedestrians and traffic before turning right on red.
- Obey all posted signs—if a “No Turn on Red” sign is present, turning is illegal.
- In Denver and potentially other cities, be alert for changing laws and new signage as local bans may be enacted in the near future.
- You are never required to turn right on red; safety comes first.
In 2025, Colorado maintains the right turn on red rule with important exceptions for safety and local control. Denver and other cities may soon implement stricter regulations, reflecting a national trend prioritizing pedestrian and cyclist safety. Drivers should stay informed about both state and local rules and always prioritize caution at intersections.
Sources
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turn_on_red
- https://www.codot.gov/safety/shift-into-safe-news/2025/february/new-year-new-rules-of-the-road-why-experts-say-colorado-drivers-will-be-safer-in-2025-denver7
- https://www.tengelaw.com/blog/2025/january/two-colorado-vehicle-safety-laws-in-2025-everyon/
- https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2023/09/13/denver-right-turns-on-red-ban
- https://www.durangoherald.com/articles/at-red-light-is-it-wrong-to-not-go-right/
