As Utah updates its traffic rules for 2025, drivers need to understand important changes and clarifications regarding the right turn on red law. This rule impacts daily driving routines, traffic safety, and enforcement. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help Utah drivers navigate the latest regulations safely and legally.
What Is the Right Turn on Red Rule in Utah?
In Utah, drivers are generally allowed to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop, provided there is no sign explicitly prohibiting the turn. This rule aims to improve traffic flow and reduce unnecessary idling at intersections.
Complete Stop Requirement
The law mandates that drivers must come to a full stop before the designated stop line or crosswalk prior to making the right turn. Merely slowing down or rolling through the light does not comply with the law and may result in a citation. Drivers must also yield the right of way to other vehicles and pedestrians before proceeding.
2025 Clarifications and Enforcement Updates
Stricter Enforcement of Stop Requirements
Starting in 2025, Utah law enforcement has increased enforcement of the full stop requirement before turning right on red. Cameras and police officers are more actively issuing tickets for violations where drivers fail to stop completely or race through red lights. Penalties may include fines and points added to driving records.
No Turn on Red Signs and Pedestrian Safety
Some intersections may have “No Turn on Red” signs to protect pedestrian safety or manage complex traffic flows. Pedestrian safety advocacy groups have pushed for more of these restrictions, especially in busy urban areas, as right turns on red pose risks to pedestrians at crosswalks.
How to Safely Make a Right Turn on Red in Utah
Come to a complete stop at the stop line or before entering the crosswalk.
Look for any posted signs prohibiting a right turn on red.
Yield to all vehicles and pedestrians with the right of way.
Proceed only when it is absolutely safe to make the turn without disrupting traffic or endangering others.
Left Turn on Red: A Special Case
Uniquely, Utah also allows drivers to make a left turn on red from a one-way street onto another one-way street after stopping, if no sign prohibits it. This is an exception not common in all states but is included in the Utah traffic code to enhance traffic efficiency.
Why the Right Turn on Red Rule Matters
This rule was initially adopted nationwide to conserve fuel by reducing idle times at red lights during the 1970s energy crisis. Today, it remains a practical measure to improve traffic flow and reduce emissions but requires responsible driving to ensure safety.
Final Tips for Utah Drivers
Understanding and following Utah’s updated right turn on red rule helps keep roads safe and traffic moving efficiently in 2025. Observing these rules reduces accidents, avoids tickets, and promotes courteous driving for all road users.
Sources
(https://siegfriedandjensen.com/faqs/red-light-and-stop-sign-laws-in-utah/)
(https://www.mcminnlaw.com/blog/right-of-way-laws-in-utah/)
(https://www.theticketdr.com/traffic-laws-2025)
(https://www.ksl.com/article/50781729/slc-pedestrian-safety-group-pushing-for-no-right-turn-on-red-light)
(https://themotherinlaw.net/turning-right-on-red-the-why-and-how/)
