- General Rule:
In Iowa, drivers are allowed to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop, unless there is a posted sign prohibiting such a turn. - Legal Requirements:
- The vehicle must come to a full stop at the marked stop line, before entering the crosswalk, or before entering the intersection.
- The driver must yield to all pedestrians and other vehicles lawfully within the intersection or crosswalk.
- The turn must be made cautiously and must not interfere with other road users.
- When Right on Red is Prohibited:
- If there is a sign posted at the intersection stating “No Turn on Red,” then turning right on red is illegal at that location.
- Some specific intersections in Iowa cities (such as West Des Moines and Pella) have local ordinances and signage that prohibit right turns on red at certain locations.
- Liability and Safety:
- If a driver turns right on red without stopping, or fails to yield to pedestrians or oncoming traffic, they can be found at fault for any resulting accident.
- Automated traffic enforcement (traffic cameras) may issue citations if a driver fails to make a complete stop before turning right on red.
Table
| Rule | Allowed? | Conditions/Exceptions |
|---|---|---|
| Right turn on red (general) | Yes | Must stop fully and yield to others |
| Right turn on red with “No Turn on Red” sign | No | Prohibited where signs are posted |
| Right turn on red at specific intersections | Sometimes No | Prohibited by local ordinance/signage |
| Must yield to pedestrians/vehicles | Always | Required by law |
Key Takeaways
- You may turn right on red in Iowa after a complete stop and yielding, unless a sign prohibits it.
- Always watch for and obey posted signage, and yield to pedestrians and cross traffic.
- Violations can result in citations or liability in the event of an accident.
These rules are consistent with the Iowa Code §321.257 and remain current as of 2025.
Sources
[1] https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/321.257.pdf
[2] https://jsberrylaw.com/faqs/iowa-road-laws-liability-in-right-turn-auto-accidents/
[3] https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/westdesmoinesia/latest/westdesmoines_ia/0-0-0-49100
[4] https://www.cityofmarion.org/government/police-department/automated-traffic-enforcement
[5] https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/pella/latest/pella_ia/0-0-0-1707