In 2025, Kentucky maintains its established right-turn-on-red rule, allowing drivers to make a right turn at a red light under specific circumstances. While other states consider broad bans or restrictions due to safety concerns, Kentucky continues this long-standing traffic practice—with some important rules and reminders for drivers following the latest legal updates.
How the Right Turn on Red Rule Works in Kentucky
You May Turn Right on Red: Kentucky law allows drivers to turn right at a solid red light after coming to a complete stop, as long as no sign expressly prohibits the turn at that intersection.
No Turn Signs Supersede: Always check for “No Turn on Red” signage. If such a sign is present, right turns on red are illegal, regardless of the situation.
Full Stop Is Mandatory: You must come to a complete stop at the stop line, crosswalk, or intersection limit line before attempting a right turn. Rolling through a red light is a violation, even if you intend to turn.
Yield to Others: After stopping, yield to all oncoming traffic and pedestrians. You may only proceed with the turn when the road is clear and your movement is safe.
Red Arrow Lights: If facing a red right-turn arrow, Kentucky law still generally allows a right turn after stopping and ensuring the way is clear, unless a sign explicitly prohibits it (Kentucky follows the majority of states in this interpretation as of 2025).
Left Turn on Red for One-Way Streets: Kentucky also permits a left turn on red when both streets are one-way and no sign prohibits it, provided you stop and yield first.
Key Safety Reminders (2025)
Watch for Changing Local Ordinances: Though the state rule permits right-turn-on-red, certain cities and specific intersections (especially in high-pedestrian areas or near schools) may enact local bans or special signage. Always observe posted instructions.
Increased Enforcement: With intersection accidents a concern, expect stricter enforcement if you fail to stop, yield, or obey posted signs.
Pedestrian Emphasis: Drivers must yield to all pedestrians lawfully in the crosswalk before turning.
2025 Legislative Updates
Kentucky has not passed laws banning right turns on red statewide as of mid-2025. While new legislation addresses vision screenings for license renewals, medical marijuana, and special-vehicle regulations, no substantive changes to the right-turn-on-red rule have been enacted this year. However, public safety campaigns continue to raise awareness of correct procedures as part of intersection safety initiatives.
What Drivers Should Do
Always stop completely before the line.
Double-check for signs prohibiting right turn on red at each intersection.
Yield to pedestrians and cross traffic.
Proceed only when safe—never assume you have the right of way simply because the law generally allows a right turn on red.
Kentucky’s approach balances convenience and safety, but it’s up to each driver to follow the rules strictly. If in doubt at a particular intersection, wait until the light turns green or until you’re certain all legal and safety requirements are met.
Sources
[1] https://www.dickmanlawoffice.com/car-accidents/determining-responsibility-in-right-turn-on-red-car-accidents/
[2] https://www.grayandwhitelaw.com/kentucky-traffic-light-accidents-and-liability/
[3] https://drive.ky.gov/Drivers/Documents/Kentucky-Driver-Manual.pdf
[4] https://www.reddit.com/r/driving/comments/1hwk9kv/anyone_have_a_lists_of_states_where_its_legal_to/
[5] https://www.lex18.com/news/cov
