Yes, Florida law continues to allow drivers to make a right turn at a red light, provided specific conditions are met. This rule remains unchanged in 2025.
Key Requirements for Right Turn on Red
- Complete Stop:
You must come to a complete stop at the marked stop line, before entering the crosswalk, or—if neither is present—before entering the intersection. - Yielding:
You must yield the right-of-way to all pedestrians in the crosswalk and to all other vehicles lawfully within the intersection or approaching so closely as to constitute an immediate hazard. - Check for Signs:
If there is a posted sign stating “No Right Turn on Red,” you must obey it and wait for a green signal before turning. - Red Arrow Exception:
A solid red arrow pointing right means you cannot turn right until the arrow turns green, even if you have stopped.
Right of Way: Common Misconceptions and Clarifications
- Who Has the Right of Way?
The driver making a right turn on red must always yield to other vehicles and pedestrians lawfully in the intersection.- For example, if another vehicle is making a legal U-turn on a green light, that driver has the right of way over someone turning right on red.
- Failing to yield can result in being found at fault in the event of a collision.
- Not Automatic:
Turning right on red is not an automatic right of way—it is a privilege that comes with the responsibility to ensure the intersection is clear and safe.
Exceptions and Local Variations
- Prohibited Intersections:
Some intersections, especially in areas with heavy pedestrian traffic or complex layouts, may prohibit right turns on red with posted signage. - Visibility:
If your view is blocked by obstructions (e.g., parked cars, trees), it is safer—and sometimes required—to wait for a green light.
Summary Table: Florida Right Turn on Red Rule (2025)
| Condition | Requirement/Rule |
|---|---|
| Complete stop before turning | Mandatory |
| Yield to pedestrians and vehicles | Mandatory |
| “No Right Turn on Red” sign present | Turning right on red is prohibited |
| Red arrow signal | No right turn until arrow turns green |
| U-turns and left turns in intersection | Right-on-red must yield to U-turns and left-turning vehicles |
| Visibility obstructed | Wait for green if unsafe to proceed |
Florida law allows right turns on red after a complete stop and yielding to all cross-traffic and pedestrians, unless specifically prohibited by signage or a red arrow. The driver making the right-on-red is responsible for ensuring the intersection is clear, and failure to yield can result in traffic violations or liability in an accident. Always check for posted restrictions and proceed with caution.
Sources
- https://jlgtampabay.com/car-accident/right-turn-on-red-vs-u-turn-who-has-the-right-of-way/
- https://www.flsenate.gov/laws/statutes/2012/316.075
- https://bocabayduiprogram.org/blog/can-you-turn-right-on-red-in-florida/
- https://www.foryourrights.com/faqs/can-you-make-a-right-turn-on-red-in-florida/
- https://florida.law/understanding-the-right-on-red-rule-in-delray-beach-florida/