As of 2025, Illinois law continues to allow drivers to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop, unless posted signs specifically prohibit it. This rule has been in place for decades and is part of the standard “Rules of the Road” for Illinois motorists. Before turning, drivers must:
- Come to a complete stop at the marked stop line, before the crosswalk, or before entering the intersection if no line or crosswalk is present.
- Yield the right-of-way to all other vehicles and pedestrians in the intersection or crosswalk.
- Only proceed when it is safe and legal to do so.
Yielding to Pedestrians and Other Road Users
Safety is a top priority. Illinois law requires drivers turning right on red to yield to pedestrians in both marked and unmarked crosswalks and to other vehicles that have the right-of-way. Failing to yield can result in citations and fines, and is a leading concern amid rising pedestrian and cyclist injuries.
Local Changes and Safety Concerns
While the statewide rule remains unchanged, there is a growing movement in Illinois cities-especially in urban areas like Chicago-to restrict or ban right turns on red at certain intersections due to increased pedestrian and cyclist accidents.
Studies and safety advocates point out that many drivers fail to come to a complete stop before turning, increasing the risk to vulnerable road users.
Some municipalities are considering or have already implemented bans at high-risk intersections. These local bans are typically marked with “No Turn on Red” signs. Always obey posted signage, as local rules may override the general state law at specific locations.
Possible Future Changes
The rise in pedestrian fatalities and injuries has prompted further review of the right turn on red rule. Policy discussions continue at both the state and city levels, with some experts recommending that Illinois give cities more authority to restrict right turns on red as a default, only allowing them where it is deemed safe.
Key Points for Drivers in 2025
- Right turn on red is legal statewide after a complete stop, unless posted otherwise.
- Always yield to pedestrians and other vehicles with the right-of-way.
- Look for and obey “No Turn on Red” signs, especially in urban areas where local bans may apply.
- Expect increased enforcement and possible expansion of local bans in response to pedestrian safety concerns.
The right turn on red remains legal in Illinois in 2025, but with heightened attention to pedestrian safety and more local restrictions likely at busy intersections. Drivers should stay alert, always stop fully, yield appropriately, and watch for changing signage and local ordinances.
Sources:
- https://www.ilsos.gov/publications/pdf_publications/dsd_a112.pdf
- https://tpmblegal.com/right-of-way-laws-in-illinois/
- https://www.myjournalcourier.com/news/article/cities-considering-right-on-red-bans-illinois-18469556.php
- https://1440wrok.com/banning-right-turn-on-red-in-illinois-heres-why-it-could-happen/
- https://illinoiscarlaws.com/right-of-way-laws/