In 2025, Tennessee updated its traffic laws to clarify and reinforce the rules surrounding the “Right Turn on Red” rule. This rule allows drivers to make a right turn at a red traffic light under certain conditions. While this rule has been in place for several years in Tennessee, the recent update provides additional guidance to ensure the safety of pedestrians and cyclists, and to reduce confusion for drivers.
What Does the Right Turn on Red Rule Entail?
Under Tennessee law, drivers can make a right turn at a red light unless posted signs specifically prohibit it. However, this must be done with caution. Drivers must come to a complete stop before the stop line, crosswalk, or intersection, and yield to all other traffic, including pedestrians and cyclists. Only when the road is clear and it is safe to proceed can the driver turn right.
Key Changes in the 2025 Update
- Increased Visibility and Signage: The 2025 update emphasizes the importance of clear and visible signage. New regulations require that intersections where right turns on red are allowed must have well-lit and easily readable signs to inform drivers of the rule. This aims to reduce confusion and improve safety.
- Pedestrian and Cyclist Considerations: One of the most significant changes is the focus on pedestrian and cyclist safety. The updated rule now mandates that drivers making a right turn on red must wait for pedestrians and cyclists to fully cross the intersection before making the turn, even if the light is red. This change is designed to prevent accidents at busy intersections where pedestrians or cyclists may be crossing.
- Prohibition at Specific Intersections: The new law also calls for a review of high-traffic intersections, where right turns on red may be restricted for safety reasons. Local authorities have the authority to prohibit right turns on red at locations with heavy foot traffic or in areas with higher accident rates.
- Increased Fines for Violations: To enforce the new safety measures, Tennessee has increased fines for drivers who fail to yield to pedestrians or cyclists when making a right turn on red. These fines are meant to encourage drivers to exercise greater caution when turning at red lights.
Exceptions to the Rule
There are a few exceptions to the right turn on red rule. For example, a driver may not make a right turn on red if a sign specifically prohibits it or if there is a steady red arrow pointing right. In some cases, local authorities may also place restrictions on right turns at specific intersections for traffic flow reasons.
The 2025 update to Tennessee’s traffic laws regarding right turns on red aims to improve road safety for all users. While the basic rule allowing right turns on red remains intact, the focus has shifted toward better signage, clearer guidance on yielding to pedestrians and cyclists, and increased penalties for violations. Drivers should be extra cautious when turning at red lights and always ensure that the intersection is clear before proceeding.
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