In 2025, Los Angeles is moving to restrict right turns on red lights at more intersections, reflecting a growing focus on pedestrian and cyclist safety. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what drivers need to know about the current law, ongoing changes, and best practices for compliance.
The Basics: California’s Law on Right Turns at Red Lights
Permitted Unless Prohibited: California law generally allows drivers to turn right at a red light after making a complete stop, unless there is a posted “No Turn on Red” sign.
Full Stop Required: Drivers must stop completely at the limit line, crosswalk, or before entering the intersection, check for pedestrians and oncoming traffic, and yield as necessary before turning.
Red Arrow Exception: If the signal displays a solid red arrow, turning right is strictly prohibited until the arrow turns green.
Los Angeles: New “No Right on Red” Restrictions
Increased No-Turn Zones: Los Angeles is actively installing more “No Turn on Red” signs in areas with heavy pedestrian and cyclist traffic. This is especially happening near downtown, major intersections, and locations with a history of pedestrian incidents.
Policy Motivation: The new restrictions are part of a push to reduce pedestrian and cyclist injuries and fatalities, addressing concerns that drivers making right turns on red frequently fail to yield.
Ongoing Expansion: These bans are part of a broader national and local trend, as cities like San Francisco, Seattle, Denver, and Washington, D.C., are also restricting or banning right turns on red in busy corridors.
Why Is the Rule Changing?
Pedestrian Safety: Research and crash data show that right turns on red, especially when performed without a full stop, increase risks for people walking and biking at intersections.
Crash Reduction: Advocates and transportation experts argue that prohibiting this maneuver will reduce intersection conflicts and create a safer environment for non-drivers.
Where Is the Rule Enforced?
Penalties for Violating the Rule
Tickets and Fines: Turning right on red where prohibited by signage can lead to a citation, often exceeding $200 with court fees.
Safety Liability: If you cause a crash or fail to yield to pedestrians or cyclists, you may face more severe penalties, including points on your license and liability for injuries.
Best Practices for LA Drivers
Always check for “No Turn on Red” signs before attempting a turn.
Come to a complete stop at every red light—even if a turn seems permitted.
Look for pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles before starting your turn.
Watch for school zones or intersections with high foot traffic, as bans are more common here.
Obey red arrows—no turning is allowed until the light turns green.
Looking Ahead
Los Angeles is likely to continue expanding restrictions on right turns at red lights as part of citywide safety initiatives. As these changes roll out, drivers should remain alert for new signage and updated intersection rules to avoid fines and keep all road users safe.
Right turns at red lights are still generally permitted in LA, but bans are increasing at hundreds of intersections. Check the signs and always yield—with safety as your top priority.
Sources
[1] https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/handbook/california-driver-handbook/laws-and-rules-of-the-road/
[2] https://www.justice4you.com/blog/california-right-of-way.html
[3] https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/handbook/california-driver-handbook/navigating-the-roads/
[4] https://www.freedmanlaw.com/us-cities-considering-banning-right-turn-on-red/
[5] https://www.smartcitiesdive.com/news/right-turn-on-red-ban-pedestrian-safety-effective-research/728750/
