Connecticut’s right turn on red (RTOR) rule remains largely unchanged in 2025, but there is an increased focus on pedestrian safety and stricter enforcement at intersections. Here’s what drivers need to know:
Current Law for Right Turn on Red (2025)
- Permitted at Most Intersections: Drivers may turn right on red after coming to a complete stop, unless a posted sign specifically prohibits it.
- Mandatory Complete Stop: You must come to a full stop before the crosswalk or intersection when faced with a steady red signal. Rolling stops are not allowed.
- Yielding Requirements: After stopping, you must yield to:
- Pedestrians in any adjacent crosswalk
- Other vehicles lawfully using the intersection
- Prohibited by Sign: If a “No Turn on Red” (NTOR) sign is posted-approved by the Office of the State Traffic Administration-you are not allowed to turn right on red at that location.
Key Points for 2025
- No Change to Basic Rule: The core RTOR rule remains: stop, yield, and turn only if not prohibited by signage.
- Pedestrian Safety Emphasis: Recent legislative proposals and safety campaigns have increased awareness and enforcement around yielding to pedestrians, reflecting a statewide focus on reducing pedestrian injuries and fatalities.
- No Left on Red: Left turns on red remain prohibited statewide, regardless of street type or signage.
- Dynamic Signage: Connecticut is considering more use of dynamic “No Turn on Red” signs at intersections with high pedestrian activity to further enhance safety.
How to Comply
- Approach the intersection and come to a complete stop at the red light.
- Check for posted “No Turn on Red” signs.
- Yield to all pedestrians in the crosswalk and any vehicles with the right-of-way.
- Proceed with the right turn only if it is safe, legal, and not prohibited by signage.
Summary Table
| Action | Allowed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Right turn on red | Yes, after full stop | Unless prohibited by sign |
| Must yield to pedestrians | Yes | Always required |
| Must yield to other vehicles | Yes | Always required |
| Left turn on red | No | Prohibited statewide |
| Right turn on red if signed | No | If “No Turn on Red” sign is present |
Connecticut drivers in 2025 can still turn right on red after a complete stop and yielding, unless a posted sign prohibits it. Enforcement and public awareness around pedestrian safety at intersections are a growing priority, and new dynamic signage may become more common at busy crossings.
Sources:
- https://www.reddit.com/r/Connecticut/comments/1h7lbk3/right_turn_on_red/
- https://codes.findlaw.com/ct/title-14-motor-vehicles-use-of-the-highway-by-vehicles-gasoline/ct-gen-st-sect-14-299/
- https://law.justia.com/codes/connecticut/2011/title14/chap249/Sec14-299.html