Arkansas law continues to allow right turns on red, but there are important requirements and clarifications for 2025.
Key Provisions of the Right Turn on Red Rule
- Complete Stop Required: Drivers must come to a complete stop at the red light before entering the intersection to make a right turn, unless a sign specifically prohibits the turn.
- Yielding Right-of-Way: After stopping, drivers must yield to all other vehicles and pedestrians lawfully within the intersection or crosswalk before proceeding.
- No Turn on Red Signs: If a sign is posted prohibiting a right turn on red, drivers must wait for a green signal.
- Left Turn on Red (One-Way Streets): Arkansas law also allows a left turn on red from the left lane of a one-way street onto another one-way street, after a complete stop and yielding, unless otherwise prohibited by signage.
2025 Legislative Updates
- No Major Change to Right on Red: Recent legislative updates from the 2025 session focus on work zone safety, driver communication, and licensing, but do not alter the fundamental right turn on red rule.
- Emphasis on Safety: The updated driver’s instruction manual and licensing exam now include critical information about safe driving practices at intersections, including right turns on red, especially in work zones.
Table
| Action | Permitted? | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Right turn on red | Yes | Complete stop, yield to vehicles/pedestrians, no ban signs |
| Left turn on red (one-way to one-way) | Yes | Complete stop, yield, only from left lane, no ban signs |
| Right turn on red without stopping | No | Must always stop first |
| Right turn on red where prohibited | No | Obey posted signage |
Important Reminders
- Always check for posted signs that may prohibit right turns on red.
- Yield to all pedestrians and oncoming traffic before turning.
- Exercise extra caution in work zones, as fines and enforcement may be stricter.
Arkansas law in 2025 continues to permit right turns on red after a complete stop and yielding, unless otherwise posted. The focus remains on safety and awareness at intersections and work zones.
Sources
[1] https://www.thv11.com/article/traffic/driving-you-crazy-traffic/arkansas-state-police-right-of-way-rules-intersections/91-64e0dd86-bec0-479c-b181-e5ac17363a2e
[2] https://law.justia.com/codes/arkansas/title-27/subtitle-4/chapter-51/subchapter-18/section-27-51-1803/
[3] https://www.arkansashouse.org/news/post/29570/2025-transportation-legislation
[4] https://www.dfa.arkansas.gov/office/motor-vehicle/recent-changes-in-the-law/
[5] https://codes.findlaw.com/ar/title-27-transportation/ar-code-sect-27-52-107/