In 2025, Missouri continues to allow drivers to make right turns at a red traffic signal, but there are important conditions and safety considerations that every driver must follow. Understanding these rules is crucial for ensuring safe driving and avoiding fines.
How the Rule Works
Legal Status
In Missouri, it is generally legal to make a right turn at a red light, unless a sign specifically prohibits the turn. This rule applies statewide, including in cities like Springfield, unless there are local ordinances that state otherwise.
Complete Stop Required
Before making a right turn on red, the driver must come to a complete stop. This stop must be made at the marked stop line, or if no line is present, before entering the crosswalk or intersection.
Yielding to Traffic and Pedestrians
Once the vehicle has come to a complete stop, the driver must yield to any other vehicles and pedestrians that are legally within the intersection or crosswalk. Only proceed with the turn when it is safe, and ensure no other road users are at risk.
Proceed Only When Safe
The red light is not a yield sign. Drivers must make sure that they have fully checked for pedestrians and traffic before turning. A right turn on red is not permitted unless it is completely safe to do so.
Exceptions to the Rule
No Turn on Red Signs
If an intersection has a “No Turn on Red” sign, drivers are prohibited from turning right until the light turns green, regardless of whether the intersection is clear.
School Crossing Guards
Drivers are not allowed to turn right on red when a crossing guard is present in the intersection, even if the way appears clear. This is to ensure the safety of children and pedestrians.
Safety & Enforcement
Pedestrian Safety
Right turns on red can pose risks for pedestrians and cyclists, especially when drivers fail to come to a full stop or don’t check carefully before turning. Missouri law emphasizes the need to always yield to pedestrians, making it crucial for drivers to remain alert at all times.
Local Restrictions
While the state law allows right turns on red, some local cities may implement additional rules or restrictions at high-risk intersections. These could be based on factors such as heavy pedestrian traffic or increased vehicle volume. Always watch for posted signs that may indicate local rules.
Key Points Table
| Rule/Condition | Requirement in Missouri (2025) |
|---|---|
| Right turn on red allowed? | Yes, unless posted otherwise |
| Complete stop required? | Yes |
| Must yield to pedestrians? | Yes |
| Must yield to other vehicles? | Yes |
| Local bans possible? | Yes, if posted by sign |
| Left turn on red allowed? | No, Missouri bans left turns on red |
Additional Notes
Left Turn on Red
Missouri does not allow left turns on red, whether from a one-way or a two-way street.
U-Turns
U-turns are generally prohibited at intersections with traffic signals or in business districts, unless specifically permitted by signs.
Enforcement
Failing to stop fully or yield to pedestrians or traffic before making a right turn on red can result in traffic citations. Additionally, if an accident occurs because a driver didn’t follow these rules, it may increase their liability.
Missouri law in 2025 permits right turns on red after a complete stop and yielding to all pedestrians and traffic, unless a sign prohibits the turn. Drivers should always check for any posted restrictions, be extra cautious around pedestrians, and prioritize safety at intersections to avoid penalties and ensure smooth traffic flow.
Sources
[1] https://www.springfieldmo.gov/407/Right-Turns-on-Red
[2] https://law.justia.com/codes/missouri/title-xix/chapter-300/section-300-155/
[3] https://becklawmo.com/blog/missouri-right-of-way-laws/
[4] https://www.smartcitiesdive.com/news/right-turns-on-red-light-put-pedestrians-at-risk-mineta-study/738332/
[5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turn_on_red
