In 2025, there have been some key updates and clarifications regarding the Right Turn on Red rule in Washington State. This rule has been a common part of traffic laws in many parts of the United States, including Washington, allowing drivers to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop, unless there are specific signs or signals prohibiting it.
Key Updates to the Right Turn on Red Rule in Washington
General Rule:
As per Washington traffic law, drivers are permitted to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop and ensuring it is safe to turn. This includes checking for pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles that may have the right of way.
New Signage for Restricted Areas:
New regulations in 2025 emphasize clear signage for intersections where right turns on red are prohibited. More explicit signs will be placed at intersections where the right turn on red can be dangerous or is not allowed. Look for signs like “No Turn on Red” before making any right turn.
Pedestrian Safety Focus:
There are increased penalties for right turns on red that endanger pedestrians or cyclists. If a right turn on red is made without fully yielding to pedestrians crossing the intersection, there may be increased fines, especially in urban areas with high foot traffic.
School Zones and Residential Areas:
In school zones and residential areas, the rule is stricter. Drivers must stop and wait until the light turns green in these zones to ensure the safety of children, pedestrians, and other residents. The rule is designed to reduce accidents and increase awareness in these sensitive areas.
Automated Traffic Cameras:
Some cities in Washington have started using automated traffic cameras to monitor and ticket illegal right turns on red. These cameras will photograph vehicles making a right turn without stopping or those turning into a restricted area.
Updated Driver Education:
With the new rules in place, driver education programs across Washington are updating their materials to ensure drivers are aware of the specific rules regarding right turns on red, especially in busy or complex intersections.
Turning Right on Red During Heavy Traffic:
In areas where traffic is often congested, it’s important to note that making a right turn on red may require additional caution, even if the light allows it. Drivers are expected to not block intersections and should avoid turning if it might cause traffic to back up or block the crosswalk.
Summary of What Drivers Need to Remember:
Stop completely before turning right on red.
Look for posted signs that may prohibit the right turn on red.
Yield to pedestrians and cyclists at all times when turning.
Be mindful of traffic congestion and the specific rules for school and residential areas.
Keep an eye out for traffic cameras that may enforce these rules.
As of 2025, Washington state has reinforced and refined its Right Turn on Red rule to enhance pedestrian and cyclist safety, ensure clarity in high-traffic areas, and prevent accidents caused by hasty or unsafe turns. Drivers should be more cautious and aware of changes at intersections, paying close attention to signage and local regulations to avoid fines or penalties.
SOURCES
[1] https://wjla.com/news/local/dmv-new-laws-2025-washington-dc-bans-right-turns-at-red-lights-ddot-drivers-january-1-council-transportation-traffic-signage-public-education-campaign-cars-vehicles-police-accidents-crashed-pedestrian-cross-walks-tickets-fines
[2] https://internationaldriversassociation.com/de/blog/right-turn-red-laws-usa/
[3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turn_on_red
[4] https://mywaynecountynow.com/north-dakota-traffic-rule-2025-update-understanding-the-right-turn-on-red-rule/
[5] https://app.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=468-95-250
