Mississippi’s traffic laws include specific provisions about turning right on a red light, designed to balance traffic flow efficiency with pedestrian and driver safety. In the 2025 update, the state’s rules continue to emphasize caution and legal responsibilities for drivers making this common maneuver.
What Is the Right Turn on Red Rule?
The right turn on red rule allows drivers to turn right at a red traffic signal under certain conditions. In Mississippi, motorists must come to a complete stop first and yield to pedestrians and other vehicles lawfully using the intersection before making the turn.
Key Requirements for Right Turns on Red in Mississippi
Complete Stop Required: Drivers must come to a full stop at the red light before turning right.
Yield to Pedestrians and Traffic: Before turning, motorists must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in crosswalks and to any other vehicles lawfully within the intersection.
No Turn on Red Signs: Some intersections have signs prohibiting right turns on red; these signs must be obeyed without exception.
One-Way Street Turns: Vehicles facing a red light at the junction of two one-way streets may turn left on red after stopping and yielding, unless otherwise posted.
Safety Emphasis in 2025 Enforcement
Recent campaigns by the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) focus on educating drivers about safely executing right turns on red. Drivers are reminded that although turning right on red is legal where not prohibited, it requires vigilance to avoid conflicts with pedestrians and cross traffic.
Pedestrian Safety
Pedestrians have the right to cross safely when they have a walk signal. Drivers must respect this and refrain from making turns that would endanger pedestrians legally within crosswalks or crossing zones.
Exceptions and Local Variations
While Mississippi state law generally permits right turns on red, local municipalities may restrict such turns at certain intersections to address high pedestrian traffic or accident history. Drivers should watch for and obey local signage.
Impact on Traffic Flow
The right turn on red rule helps improve traffic flow by allowing vehicles to clear intersections more quickly, reducing congestion at stoplights. However, this benefit is contingent upon driver compliance with safety practices outlined by state law.
Practical Tips for Drivers
Mississippi’s 2025 right turn on red rule reinforces long-standing traffic safety principles: drivers may turn right on red after a complete stop and proper yielding unless prohibited by signage. Staying informed and attentive helps ensure safe, legal turns that protect all road users while promoting efficient traffic movement.
Sources
(https://law.justia.com/codes/mississippi/title-63/chapter-3/article-7/section-63-3-309/)
(https://kellumlawfirmpc.com/mississippi-traffic-laws-every-driver-should-be-aware-of/)
(https://mdot.ms.gov/portal/news_release_view/2235)
(https://internationaldriversassociation.com/nl/blog/right-turn-red-laws-usa/)
(https://www.instagram.com/reel/DNEuCuwNbtf/)
