Rhode Island’s rules regarding right turns on red remain clear and consistent in 2025, with a few important details every driver should know.
Can You Turn Right on Red in Rhode Island?
Yes, you are permitted to turn right at a red light in Rhode Island—unless a sign specifically prohibits it. The law allows drivers to make a right turn on a steady red light after coming to a complete stop and yielding to all pedestrians and oncoming traffic.
Key Requirements for Right Turn on Red
- Full Stop Required: You must come to a complete stop at the stop line, before the crosswalk, or, if neither is present, before entering the intersection.
- Yielding: After stopping, you must yield the right-of-way to:
- Pedestrians lawfully in the crosswalk
- Other vehicles lawfully within the intersection
- No Turn on Red Signs: If there is a posted “No Turn on Red” sign or a red arrow signal, you are not allowed to make the turn.
- Not Required: Drivers are not required to turn right on red; it is permitted, not mandatory.
Special Situations
- Red Arrow: A steady red arrow means you cannot turn in the direction of the arrow until a green signal or arrow is displayed.
- Protected Turn Lanes: Some intersections have green arrow signals for protected turns. Only turn when the green arrow is lit and it is safe to do so.
How to Make a Right Turn on Red Safely
- Approach the intersection and stop completely at the designated line or before entering the crosswalk/intersection.
- Check for “No Turn on Red” signs or red arrows.
- Yield to pedestrians and all oncoming vehicles.
- When it is safe and legal, make your right turn as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway.
Summary Table: Right Turn on Red in Rhode Island
| Condition | Can You Turn Right on Red? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| No sign prohibiting turn | Yes | Must stop and yield first |
| “No Turn on Red” sign present | No | Turn is prohibited |
| Steady red arrow | No | Must remain stopped until green arrow or signal appears |
| Pedestrian in crosswalk | No | Must yield to pedestrians |
| Vehicle in intersection | No | Must yield to other vehicles already in intersection |
In Rhode Island, right turns on red are allowed after a complete stop and yielding, unless posted otherwise. Always check for signs, obey red arrows, and prioritize pedestrian and intersection safety to stay compliant with the law.
Sources:
- https://dmv.ri.gov/node/1231
- https://dmv.ri.gov/node/1371
- https://codes.findlaw.com/ri/title-31-motor-and-other-vehicles/ri-gen-laws-sect-31-13-6/
- https://law.justia.com/codes/rhode-island/title-31/chapter-31-13/section-31-13-6/