Illinois drivers have long been allowed to turn right on a red light after coming to a complete stop and yielding to traffic and pedestrians, a rule in place since the nationwide adoption dates back to the 1970s. However, in 2025, Illinois is navigating new changes and considerations around this rule amid rising concerns for pedestrian safety. Here’s what drivers in Illinois need to know.
The Basics: Right Turn on Red Is Still Allowed With Conditions
Under Illinois law, drivers may turn right on a red light as long as they:
Come to a complete stop at the light.
Yield to all oncoming vehicles and pedestrians.
Ensure the turn can be made safely without interfering.
This longstanding rule saves time, reduces vehicle idling, and is generally accepted practice except where posted signs prohibit it. However, drivers must always obey any “No Turn on Red” signs, which appear at certain intersections for safety reasons.
New Safety Concerns Driving Changes in Illinois
Illinois, like many other states, faces a disturbing rise in pedestrian fatalities, reaching levels not seen since the 1980s. According to reports, over 7,500 pedestrians were killed nationwide in 2022, prompting safety advocates and policymakers in Illinois to examine the risks posed by right turns at red lights.
The higher risk for pedestrians and cyclists comes from the possibility that drivers might not fully stop or fail to see pedestrians crossing during the turn, especially in congested urban areas. Larger vehicles like SUVs and pickups increase these dangers due to bigger blind spots.
Chicago’s Move Toward Restricting Right Turns on Red
Chicago officials, responding to safety data, have proposed restricting right turns on red at certain intersections to improve pedestrian safety as part of Mayor Brandon Johnson’s broader “Vision Zero” initiative. These restrictions are currently being implemented gradually, with new “No Turn on Red” signage installed on busy corridors such as Cicero Avenue.
While a full ban on right turns on red has not been enacted in Chicago, these targeted restrictions reflect a cautious approach balancing traffic flow and pedestrian protection.
Potential Statewide Reforms and Trends
Across the United States, several cities and states—including Washington, D.C., Ann Arbor (MI), and Seattle—have implemented or considered outright bans on right turns on red in high pedestrian traffic areas. Illinois is closely watching these developments, and more comprehensive reforms could emerge as pedestrian safety remains a priority.
Practical Tips for Illinois Drivers
Always come to a complete stop before turning right on red.
Look carefully for pedestrians and cyclists in the crosswalk before turning.
Obey posted “No Turn on Red” signs—these are legally enforceable.
Drive cautiously, especially in urban areas with high foot traffic.
Be prepared for potential increased restrictions or signage in the future as safety policies evolve.
While Illinois allows right turns on red with standard safety conditions, rising pedestrian fatalities have sparked attention and policy action, especially in Chicago. Drivers must remain vigilant, obey new signage, and prioritize pedestrian safety. The rule remains in place nationwide, but cities in Illinois and elsewhere are increasingly curbing the practice in key areas to reduce accidents and save lives.
Sources
(https://www.ilsos.gov/publications/pdf_publications/dsd_a112.pdf)
(https://mitchellhoffmanwolf.com/blog/legal-implications-of-right-turns-on-red-lights-in-chicago/)
(https://1440wrok.com/will-illinois-ban-right-turn-on-red/)
(https://www.cbsnews.com/news/pedestrian-deaths-right-on-red-ban/)
(https://momentummag.com/is-now-is-the-time-to-ban-right-turns-on-red-lights-in-cities-across-north-america/)
