The Arkansas traffic rules for 2025 include specific provisions regarding the “Right Turn on Red” rule, which governs when and how drivers may turn right at a red traffic signal. Understanding these rules is essential for safe and lawful driving in Arkansas.
Arkansas Right Turn on Red Rule Overview
According to Arkansas Code Title 27, Section 27-52-107, when a traffic signal shows a steady red light, drivers must stop before entering the crosswalk or intersection and remain stopped until the light turns green. However, there are exceptions for turning:
- After coming to a complete stop, a driver may cautiously enter the intersection to make a right turn on red, unless there is a sign explicitly prohibiting the turn.
- Additionally, for one-way streets, a left turn on red is permitted from the left lane of a one-way street onto another one-way street, again after a complete stop and if not prohibited by signage.
This means that right turns on red are allowed in Arkansas unless a sign specifically forbids it, but the driver must first come to a full stop and yield to pedestrians and other vehicles lawfully within the intersection or crosswalk.
Key Conditions and Safety Considerations
- Complete Stop Required: Drivers must come to a full and complete stop at the red light before turning right. The stop must be made at the marked stop line, crosswalk, or before entering the intersection if no markings exist.
- Yielding Right-of-Way: Even when turning right on red, drivers must yield to pedestrians crossing the street and to other vehicles that have the right-of-way.
- Prohibitive Signs: If a sign is posted at the intersection that prohibits right turns on red, drivers must obey the sign and wait for a green signal before turning.
- Intersection Positioning: When making a right turn, the driver should approach the turn as close as practical to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway, ensuring the turn is executed safely and properly within the lane.
Recent or Upcoming Updates in 2025
While the core rule allowing right turns on red after a complete stop remains unchanged, Arkansas traffic law updates in 2025 emphasize clearer enforcement and safety measures:
- The law reiterates the importance of yielding and stopping fully to prevent accidents involving pedestrians and cross traffic.
- Enforcement may be stricter regarding compliance with stop requirements and yielding, with penalties for violations including points on the driver’s record and possible fines.
- Drivers are reminded to be cautious and ensure visibility and safety before turning, especially in complex intersections or where pedestrian traffic is heavy.
Penalties for Violations
Failing to comply with the right turn on red rule can result in traffic citations. Running a red light, including turning right on red without stopping or yielding properly, carries penalties such as:
- Three points on the driver’s license record per violation.
- Possible fines and increased insurance rates.
- Accumulating 14 or more points within three years can lead to license suspension or restrictions.
In Arkansas for 2025, the right turn on red rule allows drivers to turn right at a red light after coming to a complete stop and ensuring the turn is safe and lawful. Drivers must yield to pedestrians and other vehicles and obey any posted signs prohibiting such turns.
The state emphasizes safety and compliance, with penalties for violations that affect driving privileges. Proper lane positioning during the turn is also mandated to maintain road safety.
Understanding and adhering to these rules helps ensure smooth traffic flow and pedestrian safety at intersections across Arkansas.
SOURCES:-
[1] https://codes.findlaw.com/ar/title-27-transportation/ar-code-sect-27-52-107/
[2] https://law.justia.com/codes/arkansas/title-27/subtitle-4/chapter-51/subchapter-4/section-27-51-401/
[3] https://www.dps.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/Arkansas-DL-Manual-English_July2023_042524.pdf
[4] https://www.findlaw.com/traffic/traffic-tickets/arkansas-traffic-laws.html
[5] https://www.dfa.arkansas.gov/office/motor-vehicle/recent-changes-in-the-law/
