In 2025, New Mexico’s traffic laws regarding the “Right Turn on Red” rule remain largely consistent with previous years, but understanding the nuances is crucial for safe and lawful driving. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help drivers navigate this rule effectively.
What is the Right Turn on Red Rule?
The “Right Turn on Red” (RTOR) rule allows drivers to make a right turn at a red traffic light after coming to a complete stop, provided the way is clear of pedestrians and oncoming traffic. This maneuver is permitted in most intersections across New Mexico unless explicitly prohibited by signage.
Key Requirements
To execute a right turn on red legally and safely in New Mexico, drivers must adhere to the following:
- Complete Stop: Drivers must come to a full stop at the red light before proceeding. Rolling stops are considered violations and can result in fines.
- Yielding: Drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in adjacent crosswalks and vehicles lawfully approaching the intersection. This ensures safety for all road users.
- Signage Compliance: At intersections where signs prohibit right turns on red, drivers must obey these restrictions. Ignoring such signs can lead to penalties.
- Safe Entry: Drivers may proceed with a right turn only when it is safe to enter the intersection. This includes checking for pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles turning left or traveling straight through the intersection.
Exceptions to RTOR
While RTOR is widely permitted, there are exceptions:
- Prohibited Intersections: Certain intersections may have “No Turn on Red” signs due to high pedestrian traffic or specific traffic patterns that make RTOR unsafe.
- Special Vehicles: Vehicles carrying hazardous materials and school buses are prohibited from making right turns on red under any circumstances.
- Traffic Control Devices: Some intersections may have signals that explicitly prohibit RTOR during specific times or conditions.
Pedestrian Safety Concerns
Pedestrian safety remains a significant focus in New Mexico’s traffic regulations. Drivers must be vigilant for pedestrians crossing the street, especially those who have the right-of-way. Failure to yield can result in accidents and legal consequences.
Left Turns on Red
In addition to RTOR, New Mexico allows left turns on red under specific conditions:
- The maneuver is permitted only when both the origin and destination streets are one-way.
- Drivers must stop completely and yield to pedestrians and vehicles before proceeding.
Recent Updates
New Mexico has not implemented major changes to RTOR laws in 2025, but ongoing discussions about pedestrian safety have led to stricter enforcement of existing rules. Local jurisdictions may conduct traffic studies to identify intersections where RTOR poses risks and implement prohibitive signage accordingly.
The “Right Turn on Red” rule in New Mexico provides flexibility for drivers while emphasizing safety for all road users. By adhering to complete stops, yielding requirements, and signage compliance, drivers can ensure they follow the law while minimizing risks at intersections. Staying informed about local restrictions and updates is essential for responsible driving in 2025.
SOURCES:-
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turn_on_red
[2] https://internationaldriversassociation.com/sv/blog/right-turn-red-laws-usa/
[3] https://www.mvd.newmexico.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/English-Drivers-Manualver11.19.19.pdf
[4] https://codes.findlaw.com/nm/chapter-66-motor-vehicles/nm-st-sect-66-7-105/
[5] https://law.justia.com/codes/new-mexico/2018/chapter-66/article-
