If you’re driving in New Mexico, understanding the traffic rules is essential for staying safe and following the law. One important traffic rule that often causes confusion is the Right Turn on Red rule. While it’s a common practice in many states, each jurisdiction may have different guidelines. In 2025, New Mexico updated its traffic regulations to clarify how and when drivers can make a right turn at a red light. This article breaks down the updated rules, their implications for drivers, and everything you need to know to avoid penalties.
What Is the Right Turn on Red Rule in New Mexico?
The Right Turn on Red rule allows drivers to turn right at a red traffic signal after coming to a complete stop, unless posted signs prohibit such a turn. This rule is based on the principle that turning right on red is generally safe, as long as there is no oncoming traffic and no pedestrian movement.
Key Changes in New Mexico’s 2025 Update:
While the Right Turn on Red rule existed prior to 2025, there have been some updates to ensure clarity and reduce confusion among drivers. Here’s what you need to know about the new regulations:
- Mandatory Complete Stop:
As with previous rules, drivers must come to a complete stop at a red light before turning right. This is not a rolling stop, but a full stop at the stop line or crosswalk, whichever is present at the intersection. - Prohibition Signs:
New Mexico’s updated traffic rules emphasize that some intersections may have signs that explicitly prohibit right turns on red. These signs will be clearly marked at the intersection, and drivers are expected to obey them. Failure to follow these restrictions can result in fines or other traffic penalties. - Pedestrian and Bike Safety:
A notable change in the 2025 update is the increased focus on pedestrian and cyclist safety. Drivers making a right turn on red must yield the right of way to pedestrians crossing the street and cyclists riding in bike lanes. This ensures that vulnerable road users are given priority, even at intersections with a red light. - Specific Intersections and Timing:
The update also clarifies that right turns on red are permitted unless otherwise stated by local ordinances or posted signs. Certain intersections, particularly in busy urban areas or near schools, may have additional restrictions or specific times during which right turns on red are not allowed. Make sure to be mindful of these local rules. - Increased Fines for Violations:
The update also includes increased fines for violating the right turn on red rules. Drivers who fail to stop completely, ignore posted signs, or fail to yield to pedestrians and cyclists could face steeper penalties, especially if these violations lead to accidents or injuries.
When Can You Turn Right on Red in New Mexico?
You are allowed to turn right on red in the following situations:
- After a complete stop at a red traffic light.
- When there is no posted sign prohibiting the turn on red.
- When it is safe to turn without interfering with pedestrians or cyclists crossing the intersection.
What Happens if You Don’t Follow the Right Turn on Red Rule?
Failure to properly follow the right turn on red rule can result in:
- Fines and Penalties: In New Mexico, fines for traffic violations can be hefty, and this includes violations of the right turn on red rule.
- Points on Your License: Accumulating points for traffic violations could lead to higher insurance premiums or even suspension of your driver’s license if too many points are accumulated.
- Potential Accidents: Disregarding the rule could result in accidents, particularly with pedestrians or cyclists, which can have severe consequences, including legal action and increased penalties.
Exceptions to the Rule:
While the Right Turn on Red rule is generally allowed in New Mexico, there are some exceptions. These include:
- No Right Turn on Red Signs: If there is a sign that specifically prohibits turning right on red, you must obey it.
- Pedestrian Crosswalks and Bike Lanes: If there are pedestrians or cyclists crossing, you must yield to them, even if you’re allowed to turn right on red.
- Specific Local Laws: Some cities or counties in New Mexico may have local traffic laws that restrict or modify the general right turn on red rule.
The 2025 update to New Mexico’s traffic rules clarifies the right turn on red law, emphasizing pedestrian and cyclist safety while maintaining the allowance for drivers to turn right at a red light after a complete stop. The key takeaway is that while the rule remains largely unchanged, it’s essential to stay aware of posted signs, local restrictions, and the priority of pedestrians and cyclists when making a right turn on red. Obeying these rules not only keeps you safe but also helps avoid fines and potential accidents.
SOURCES
[1] https://www.directauto.com/learning-center/driving-laws-and-safety/what-to-know-red-light-camera-tickets
[2] https://law.justia.com/codes/new-mexico/2018/chapter-66/article-7/section-66-7-105/
[3] https://www.thedominguezlawfirm.com/blog/what-to-know-about-new-mexico-right-of-way-traffic-laws/
[4] https://nmpoliticalreport.com/2025/03/26/new-mexico-to-allow-cyclists-to-roll-through-stop-signs/
[5] https://law.justia.com/codes/new-mexico/chapter-66/article-7/part-4/section-66-7-325/
