Tennessee’s traffic regulations regarding right turns on red have specific guidelines that drivers must follow. Here’s an overview of the updated rules for 2025:
Right Turn on Red Rule
- General Permission: In Tennessee, drivers are allowed to make a right turn at a red light unless there is a sign indicating “No Turn on Red” at the intersection.
- Requirements:
- Complete Stop: Before making a right turn on red, drivers must come to a complete stop at the red light.
- Yielding: After stopping, drivers should treat the red light as a yield sign. This means they must check for oncoming traffic and pedestrians, proceeding only when it is safe to do so.
- Legal Framework: The law permits these turns under Tennessee Code § 55-8-110, which outlines that vehicles must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians and any cross traffic that has the green signal before turning.
Safety Considerations
Drivers are advised to exercise caution when making right turns on red. It is essential to ensure that such maneuvers do not endanger other road users, including pedestrians and cyclists.
By adhering to these guidelines, Tennessee drivers can help maintain road safety while complying with state traffic laws.
SOURCES
[1] https://www.tn.gov/safety/driver-services/classd.html
[2] https://www.drslawfirm.com/tennessee-traffic-laws-7-things-to-know/
[3] https://www.tn.gov/safety/news/2025/1/3/new-motor-vehicle-record–mvr–requirement-for-residents-transferring-a-license-from-eight-states-takes-effect-in-one-week.html
[4] https://www.kingsporttn.gov/city-services/police-department/operations_bureau/traffic_unit/safe_driving_tips/
