In 2025, Utah’s traffic laws continue to permit drivers to make right turns on red under specific conditions, reflecting the statewide and nationwide efforts to improve traffic flow and reduce wait times at intersections.
However, recent updates emphasize safety and clear compliance with stopping requirements. This guide explains the key components of Utah’s right turn on red rule, recent developments, and best practices for drivers in 2025.
Right Turn on Red: The Basics in Utah
Utah law allows drivers to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop, unless a sign explicitly prohibits the maneuver. This “Right Turn on Red” rule aims to save time and fuel by reducing unnecessary waiting periods at intersections.
Drivers must bring their vehicle to a full stop before the nearest crosswalk, stop line, or intersection entry point. After stopping, drivers should yield to all pedestrians and oncoming traffic, ensuring the turn can be made safely without disrupting other road users.
If a “No Right Turn on Red” sign is posted, drivers must obey it—these signs are typically placed in areas with limited visibility or heavy pedestrian activity to prevent accidents.
New Emphasis on Stopping and Caution
Recent updates highlight the importance of making a complete stop rather than merely slowing down. Rolling through a red light or stop sign before turning right can result in fines, points against your license, and increased risk of collisions.
Utah authorities now enforce stricter penalties for running red lights or stop signs, including attempts to beat the light or failing to yield during a right turn on red. Drivers should stop fully and wait, counting a brief moment to confirm no pedestrians or vehicles have the right of way before proceeding.
Unique Left Turn on Red Provision
Utah law permits left turns on red but only under specific conditions: when turning left from a one-way street onto another one-way street after a complete stop.
Drivers making this left turn must also yield to all other traffic and pedestrians before proceeding, maintaining the same caution required for right turns on red. This often-overlooked rule is legal but less common and not permitted at two-way intersections.
Safety Concerns and Pedestrian Awareness
While right turn on red rules are designed to facilitate traffic flow, they require careful attention to pedestrians. Studies show that right-turning vehicles at red lights pose a risk to pedestrians and cyclists who may cross legally during the red signal.
Utah drivers must be vigilant, watching sidewalks and crosswalks closely, waiting for pedestrians to fully clear the crossing before turning. The introduction of flashing yellow arrows in some intersections provides additional guidance on yielding and right-of-way during turns.
Red Light Cameras and Automated Enforcement
The rise of red light cameras in Utah has changed enforcement dynamics. Cameras automatically capture vehicles that fail to stop fully or turn right on red when prohibited, resulting in tickets sent by mail.
Some drivers hesitate to turn right on red for fear of fines triggered by cameras. Still, when done correctly—stopping fully and turning only when clear—this maneuver remains legal and safe.
Mastering the Right Turn on Red
Utah’s 2025 traffic updates reaffirm that right turns on red are legal and encouraged when done safely, after a full stop and yielding to pedestrians and traffic. The key points for drivers to remember include:
Stop fully at the red light or stop sign
Check for “No Right Turn on Red” signs and obey
Yield to pedestrians and all other vehicles
Know that left turns on red from one-way to one-way streets are also permissible
Be cautious of enforcement cameras capturing violations
Staying informed about Utah’s latest traffic rules helps drivers navigate intersections confidently, avoid tickets, and contribute to safer roads for everyone.
Sources
(https://siegfriedandjensen.com/faqs/red-light-and-stop-sign-laws-in-utah/)
(https://www.craigswapp.com/traffic-rules-utah-red-light-stop-sign-laws/)
(https://ipsonlaw.com/utah-red-light-laws-get-to-know-traffic-rules-in-your-state/)
(https://www.theticketdr.com/traffic-laws-2025)
(https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title41/Chapter6a/41-6a-S305.html)
