In Arizona, as in many other states, the Right Turn on Red rule is a common traffic regulation that allows drivers to turn right at a red light after making a complete stop, unless otherwise stated by a sign. This rule is designed to keep traffic moving while maintaining safety at intersections. However, as of 2025, there have been important updates to Arizona’s Traffic Rule 2025, which governs the Right Turn on Red (RTOR) rule. It’s important to understand the specifics of this update so you can drive safely and within the law.
What is the Right Turn on Red Rule?
Under the previous version of Arizona’s RTOR rule, drivers were allowed to make a right turn at a red traffic light after coming to a complete stop, unless there was a sign indicating otherwise (for example, a “No Right Turn on Red” sign).
Key Update in 2025:
As of the 2025 update, the Right Turn on Red rule in Arizona now includes a clarification that drivers must not only stop fully before making the turn but must also yield to pedestrians and bicyclists crossing the intersection.
Full Stop Requirement: Drivers must come to a complete stop before making a right turn, ensuring they fully stop behind the crosswalk line or before entering the intersection.
Yielding to Pedestrians and Bicyclists: Drivers are required to yield to pedestrians and cyclists in the crosswalk, even if they are crossing from the other side of the intersection. This ensures that turning traffic does not block or endanger those crossing the road.
No Signs: If there is a sign posted prohibiting a right turn on red, then the driver must obey the sign and cannot turn.
Exceptions for Specific Locations: The rule allows cities or local municipalities to establish specific zones where the right turn on red may be restricted, such as near schools or busy pedestrian areas. Local signage will be posted in these areas to alert drivers.
Why the Update Matters
The primary aim of the 2025 update is to enhance pedestrian and cyclist safety at intersections, where they are often at risk from turning vehicles. Arizona has seen an increase in traffic incidents involving pedestrians, and this rule update is part of efforts to reduce these accidents.
Pedestrian Safety: The new rule emphasizes that drivers must be cautious of pedestrians who may be crossing the street in front of them, even when they have a green light to make the turn.
Bicyclist Safety: Cyclists who are riding along the crosswalk or in dedicated bike lanes must also be given priority when making right turns on red.
What Happens if You Violate the Right Turn on Red Rule?
If you fail to stop completely, or if you turn right on red without yielding to pedestrians or cyclists, you could face a traffic citation. The penalties may include:
Fines: You may be issued a fine for failing to comply with the law.
Points on Your License: Violations could result in points on your driving record, which can impact your insurance rates.
Increased Risk of Accidents: Failing to yield to pedestrians or cyclists can increase the likelihood of an accident, resulting in more serious legal consequences if an incident occurs.
The 2025 update to Arizona’s Traffic Rule 2025 clarifies and strengthens the Right Turn on Red rule by emphasizing pedestrian and cyclist safety. Drivers are now required to come to a full stop and yield to anyone in the crosswalk, ensuring that intersections are safer for everyone. Whether you’re a new driver or a seasoned one, it’s crucial to stay informed about these updates to avoid fines and, most importantly, to ensure the safety of pedestrians, cyclists, and fellow motorists.
SOURCES
[1] https://thewrangler.com/arizona-traffic-rule-2025-update-understanding-the-right-turn-on-red-rule/2025/06/05/
[2] https://www.kgun9.com/news/local-news/misinformation-online-leads-to-confusion-about-right-turn-on-red-law
[3] https://www.kawc.org/news/2024-04-08/arizona-lawmakers-want-to-you-to-be-able-to-turn-right-at-a-red-light
[4] https://codes.findlaw.com/az/title-28-transportation/az-rev-st-sect-28-645/
[5] https://trajdash.usc.edu/right-turn-on-red-arizona
