Texas maintains a permissive right-turn-on-red rule, allowing drivers to turn right at a red light after stopping, with specific conditions and regulations in place as of 2025. Understanding these rules is essential for ensuring safety and compliance on the roads.
Right Turn on Red: The Basics
In Texas, the law permits drivers to make a right turn on red after coming to a complete stop at the intersection. The stopping point must be at:
- The marked limit line,
- Before entering the crosswalk if no limit line is present, or
- Before entering the intersection if there is neither a limit line nor a crosswalk.
Yielding Requirements
After stopping, drivers must yield the right-of-way to:
- Oncoming traffic: Ensure that no vehicles are approaching from the left that would pose a danger.
- Pedestrians: Always prioritize pedestrians who are crossing legally in the crosswalk.
It’s also important to be aware of any posted signs that may prohibit a right turn on red at specific intersections. If such signs are present, drivers must wait for the green light before turning.
Recent Developments and Safety Concerns
As of 2025, there is growing concern regarding pedestrian safety related to right turns on red. Reports indicate an increase in pedestrian accidents at intersections, prompting discussions about potentially restricting or banning this practice in certain areas.
Statistics Highlighting the Issue
In 2022 alone, over 7,500 pedestrians were injured or killed in accidents involving vehicles. This alarming trend has led cities across the United States, including some in Texas, to reconsider their policies regarding right turns on red. For instance, Tyler has already implemented restrictions at specific intersections where right turns on red are prohibited.
Potential Changes on the Horizon
While Texas has not yet enacted statewide bans on right turns on red, local jurisdictions may begin to adopt stricter regulations if accident rates continue to rise. Cities like Washington D.C., New York City, and others have already implemented such bans due to safety concerns. If Texas follows this trend, drivers may need to adapt to new rules that could impact traffic flow and pedestrian safety significantly.
Legal Implications
Violating the right-turn-on-red rule can lead to various penalties:
- Fines: Drivers may face monetary penalties for failing to comply with traffic signals or signs.
- Points on Driving Record: Accumulating points can affect insurance premiums and driving privileges.
- Liability in Accidents: If an accident occurs while violating traffic laws, drivers may face increased liability and legal repercussions.
As of 2025, Texas continues to allow right turns on red under specific conditions aimed at maintaining traffic flow while ensuring pedestrian safety. However, ongoing discussions about potential restrictions highlight the need for drivers to remain vigilant and informed about local traffic laws. By adhering to these rules and prioritizing safety, drivers can contribute to reducing accidents and improving overall road safety for everyone.
Source
[1] https://www.defensivedriving.com/blog/can-you-turn-right-on-a-red-light-in-texas/
[2] https://knue.com/end-right-turn-on-red-texas/
[3] https://jeffweinsteinlaw.com/posts/cities-ban-right-turn-on-red-will-texas/
[4] https://codes.findlaw.com/tx/transportation-code/transp-sect-544-007/
[5] https://personalinjurylawyersaustintx.com/blog/texas-right-of-way-laws/
