- Permitted by Default:
Missouri law allows drivers to make a right turn at a red light unless there is a posted sign specifically prohibiting it. This applies to both standard red lights and steady red arrows. - Full Stop Required:
Before making a right turn on red, the driver must come to a complete stop at the marked stop line, before the crosswalk, or before entering the intersection if there is no line or crosswalk. - Yielding Obligations:
After stopping, the driver must yield the right-of-way to:- All pedestrians lawfully in the crosswalk or intersection
- All other vehicles and cyclists approaching on the green light or otherwise lawfully using the intersection.
- Safety First:
The turn can only be made when it is safe to do so. Drivers must check for crossing guards, pedestrians, and oncoming traffic before proceeding. - Local Exceptions:
The Missouri Department of Transportation or local authorities may prohibit right turns on red at specific intersections for safety reasons. If prohibited, a sign will be posted at the intersection. - Red Arrow Signals:
Missouri law treats a steady red arrow the same as a standard red light for right turns. Drivers may turn right on a steady red arrow after stopping and yielding, unless signage prohibits it.
Table: Right Turn on Red in Missouri (2025)
| Rule/Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Default Rule | Right turn on red allowed unless posted otherwise |
| Full Stop | Required before crosswalk/stop line/intersection |
| Yield To | Pedestrians, cyclists, and oncoming traffic |
| Red Arrow | Treated same as red light for right turns |
| Local Prohibition | Allowed if no posted sign; prohibited where signage indicates |
| Safety | Turn only when safe; check for crossing guards and all cross traffic |
Key Takeaways for 2025
- Missouri continues to permit right turns on red lights and red arrows after a full stop and proper yielding, unless signage says otherwise.
- Always check for posted signs, pedestrians, cyclists, and crossing guards before turning.
- Local ordinances or temporary restrictions may override the default rule at specific intersections.
Missouri’s right turn on red rule prioritizes both traffic flow and safety, requiring drivers to stop, yield, and proceed only when conditions are safe.
Sources
- https://roachlawoffice.com/blog/right-of-way-laws-in-missouri/
- https://law.justia.com/codes/missouri/title-xix/chapter-300/section-300-155/
- https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=304.281
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turn_on_red
- https://www.yahoo.com/news/turn-red-arrow-signal-kansas-182535767.html
