Michigan’s right turn on red rule remains largely unchanged as of 2025, but there are important updates and local exceptions that drivers should be aware of.
State Law Overview
- Right Turn on Red Allowed: Under Michigan law (MCL 257.612(1)(c)(ii)), drivers are permitted to turn right at a red light after coming to a complete stop, provided there is no sign, signal, marking, light, or other traffic control device prohibiting the turn.
- Yielding Requirements: Drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians and bicyclists lawfully within the crosswalk and to other vehicles lawfully using the intersection.
- Direction of Traffic: The turn must be into the direction of traffic flow on the street you are entering. You may turn right onto either a one-way or two-way street unless prohibited.
- Violations: Making an improper right turn on red is a civil infraction, punishable by a fine and two points on your driving record.
Local Exceptions and Updates
- Ann Arbor Ban: Ann Arbor, Michigan, has implemented a ban on right turns on red at approximately 50 high-traffic intersections in its downtown area. This change took effect in October 2022 and is aimed at improving pedestrian and bicyclist safety.
- Other Cities: While most Michigan cities still allow right turns on red, the trend of banning or restricting such turns is growing nationwide, especially in urban areas with high pedestrian traffic. As of 2025, only Ann Arbor has implemented this ban locally, but other cities may consider similar measures in the future.
Key Takeaways
- Statewide: Right turns on red are legal unless a sign or signal prohibits them.
- Local Bans: Ann Arbor prohibits right turns on red at select downtown intersections.
- Safety: Always stop completely before turning and yield to pedestrians and bicyclists.
- Penalties: Violations can result in fines and points on your driving record.
Summary Table
| Location | Right Turn on Red Allowed? | Notes/Exceptions |
|---|---|---|
| Statewide | Yes | Unless prohibited by sign or signal |
| Ann Arbor | No (at 50 intersections) | Downtown area only |
| Other Cities | Yes | Unless local ordinance prohibits |
Always check for posted signs and be aware of local restrictions, especially in busy urban areas. This rule reflects Michigan’s balance between traffic efficiency and pedestrian safety.
Sources:
- https://www.michiganautolaw.com/blog/2025/01/06/can-you-turn-left-on-a-red-light-in-michigan/
- https://www.chainlaw.com/officials-consider-banning-right-turns-on-red-lights-to-decrease-accidents-involving-pedestrians-bicyclists/
- https://wbckfm.com/could-right-turn-on-red-be-ending-in-michigan/
- https://www.cbsnews.com/news/pedestrian-deaths-right-on-red-ban/