Key Provisions of the Law
- Right Turn on Red Permitted: Missouri drivers may turn right at a red traffic signal, including a steady red arrow, unless a posted sign or city ordinance specifically prohibits it.
- Full Stop Required: Before making a right turn on red, you must come to a complete stop behind the stop line, crosswalk, or before entering the intersection if no markings exist.
- Yielding is Mandatory: After stopping, you must yield to all cross traffic, including vehicles, cyclists, and especially pedestrians who are lawfully in the intersection or adjacent crosswalk.
- Turn Only When Safe: Proceed with the right turn only when it is safe to do so. Failing to yield or turning unsafely can result in traffic citations and liability in the event of an accident.
Special Notes
- Red Arrow Treated Like Red Light: Missouri law treats a steady red arrow the same as a red light for right turns. You may turn right on a red arrow after stopping, unless signage prohibits it.
- Local Ordinances: Some cities or intersections may post signs prohibiting right turns on red. Always look for and obey posted signage.
- No Left Turn on Red: Missouri generally prohibits left turns on red, except in specific local exceptions (e.g., Kansas City allows left turns from a one-way street onto another one-way street after stopping).
Summary Table
| Situation | Right Turn on Red Allowed? | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| No sign, steady red light or arrow | Yes | Stop, yield, turn when safe |
| Sign posted prohibiting right turn on red | No | Must wait for green signal |
| Pedestrian in crosswalk | No | Must yield to pedestrian |
| Left turn on red (two-way street) | No | Not allowed |
| Left turn on red (one-way to one-way, KC only) | Yes (KC exception) | Stop, yield, turn when safe |
Practical Tips for Drivers
- Always come to a complete stop before turning.
- Check for posted signs that prohibit right turns on red.
- Yield to all cross traffic and pedestrians before proceeding.
- Be especially cautious in busy intersections and areas with heavy pedestrian traffic.
Missouri law in 2025 continues to permit right turns on red after a complete stop and yielding to others, unless signage or local ordinances say otherwise. This rule applies to both standard red lights and red arrows. Always prioritize safety and compliance to avoid penalties and ensure smooth traffic flow.
Sources
- https://law.justia.com/codes/missouri/title-xix/chapter-300/section-300-155/
- https://roachlawoffice.com/blog/right-of-way-laws-in-missouri/
- https://becklawmo.com/blog/missouri-right-of-way-laws/
- https://www.yahoo.com/news/turn-red-arrow-signal-kansas-182535767.html
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turn_on_red
