South Dakota’s 2025 update on the Right Turn on Red rule continues to follow longstanding state regulations that allow drivers to turn right at a red traffic light after coming to a complete stop, unless local ordinances or signage specifically prohibit it. This rule promotes traffic flow efficiency while prioritizing safety for pedestrians and other vehicles.
What Is the Right Turn on Red Rule?
The Right Turn on Red (RTOR) rule permits a driver stopped at a red light to turn right after making a full stop and ensuring the intersection is clear of oncoming traffic and pedestrians. This maneuver helps reduce waiting times at intersections, alleviates congestion, and saves fuel by minimizing idling.
South Dakota’s Legal Framework
South Dakota Codified Law § 32-28-4 clearly defines the conditions under which RTOR is permitted. Drivers must stop before entering the crosswalk or intersection, yield to pedestrians and other traffic with the green light, and only turn right if the way is clear. However, this allowance can be overridden by local ordinances or specific signage that prohibits the turn on red at certain intersections.
Exceptions and Local Variations
While state law provides the baseline, individual municipalities within South Dakota can restrict RTOR through signage. Drivers must be vigilant for “No Turn on Red” signs which indicate intersections where turning right on red is forbidden for safety or traffic management reasons.
Safety Considerations
The legislated requirement to come to a complete stop before turning is crucial for allowing drivers to adequately check for pedestrians, bicyclists, and conflicting traffic movements. This precaution reduces the risk of accidents and promotes safe interaction among road users at intersections.
Efforts to Balance Efficiency and Safety
South Dakota’s RTOR law aims to strike a balance between improving traffic efficiency and protecting vulnerable road users like pedestrians. As pedestrian fatalities have risen nationally, states including South Dakota are increasingly mindful of ensuring safety through clear rules and enforcement.
Upcoming Related Traffic Law Changes
Alongside RTOR, South Dakota has recently updated its “Move Over” law in 2025, requiring motorists to slow down and move over for vehicles stopped on the roadside with hazard lights. This reflects the state’s broader effort to enhance overall road safety.
Key Takeaways for Drivers in South Dakota
Drivers may turn right on red after a full stop when the way is clear.
Yielding to pedestrians and traffic with the green light is mandatory.
Local signs can prohibit RTOR at specific intersections, and such signs must be respected.
The rule helps improve traffic flow but emphasizes stopping for safety.
Combined with new expanded safety laws like the Move Over law, South Dakota is strengthening road safety measures.
South Dakota’s 2025 update confirms the Right Turn on Red rule remains a permissible and common practice under clearly defined conditions. Drivers must continue to stop fully and yield the right of way while being aware of local restrictions. Together with other safety regulations, this law aims to maintain smooth traffic movement without compromising pedestrian and driver safety.
Sources
(https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/32-28)
(https://law.justia.com/codes/south-dakota/title-32/chapter-28/section-32-28-4/)
(https://internationaldriversassociation.com/blog/right-turn-red-laws-usa/)
(https://dot.sd.gov/inside-sddot/media/sddot-blog/move-over-law-july-1-2025/)
(https://dot.sd.gov/inside-sddot/media/news-stories/south-dakota-s-expanded-move-over-law-takes-effect-today-drg-news/)
