As of March 2025, Arizona’s regulations permitting drivers to execute right turns at red lights remain consistent with longstanding practices. Since 1953, the state has allowed such maneuvers, provided specific safety protocols are observed. Recent legislative discussions have aimed to clarify these rules, emphasizing both driver and pedestrian safety.
Understanding the Current Right Turn on Red (RTOR) Rule
Under Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) 28-645, drivers may turn right at a red light after coming to a complete stop. Before proceeding, they must yield to pedestrians and other vehicles that have the right-of-way. It’s crucial to note that right turns on red are prohibited at intersections where signage explicitly indicates such restrictions.
Safety Considerations for Drivers
While the law permits right turns on red, drivers should prioritize safety:
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Complete Stop: Always come to a full stop before the crosswalk or intersection line.
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Yield to Pedestrians and Traffic: Ensure the path is clear of pedestrians, cyclists, and oncoming vehicles before turning.
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Observe Signage: Be attentive to signs that may prohibit right turns on red at specific intersections.
Recent Legislative Discussions and Clarifications
In 2024, Arizona lawmakers introduced legislation to safeguard the right to turn right on red. This proposed bill sought to prevent local governments from imposing arbitrary restrictions on RTOR without proper engineering justification. The intent was to preserve the benefits of RTOR, such as reduced wait times and improved traffic flow, while ensuring safety considerations are met.
Additionally, misinformation circulated online in early 2024, falsely claiming that right turns on red had become illegal in Arizona. This led to confusion among drivers. However, authorities promptly debunked these claims, reaffirming that the existing RTOR laws remained unchanged.
Enforcement and Penalties
Failure to adhere to RTOR regulations can result in traffic violations:
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Illegal Turns: Making a right turn on red where it’s prohibited by signage can lead to fines.
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Accidents: Causing an accident due to an unsafe right turn on red may result in more severe penalties, including higher fines and potential legal action.
Conclusion
As of 2025, Arizona drivers can continue to make right turns at red lights, provided they follow all safety protocols and obey any posted restrictions. Staying informed about traffic laws and being attentive at intersections are essential practices for ensuring safety on the roads.
(Source : huskynetwork.net )