As of 2025, the right turn on red (RTOR) rule in Kansas remains largely unchanged. It allows drivers to turn right at a red light after stopping completely, unless a sign prohibits it. The law has been clarified to ensure better safety procedures, especially regarding pedestrians and cyclists.
Key Requirements and Process
Complete Stop
When approaching a red light, drivers must come to a full stop before making a right turn.
Yielding
After stopping, drivers must yield the right-of-way to:
Vehicles already in or closely approaching the intersection, particularly those that might pose a hazard.
Pedestrians legally crossing the intersection or within any crosswalk.
Signage
If there is a sign at the intersection that prohibits right turns on red, drivers must comply and not make the turn. These signs are typically placed at intersections with high pedestrian activity or areas that pose a higher risk.
Red Arrows
Kansas treats steady red arrows in the same way as standard red lights when it comes to right turns. Drivers can turn right after a complete stop, provided there are no posted signs that forbid it.
2025 Legislative Updates
As of 2025, there have been no major changes to the RTOR rule. The law still requires a complete stop before turning, and the yielding process remains the same. However, there is an increased focus on safety, particularly pedestrian safety, with traffic authorities emphasizing careful attention to pedestrians and cyclists.
Some local jurisdictions or specific intersections may have additional restrictions or prohibitions, so drivers should always look for posted signs or specific traffic signal instructions.
Safety Emphasis
Traffic authorities continue to prioritize:
Ensuring drivers check for pedestrians and cyclists before making a right turn.
Emphasizing that a “rolling stop” is not enough—the driver must come to a complete stop.
Strict enforcement of fines, particularly for violations that endanger pedestrian safety.
Sources:
1. https://internationaldriversassociation.com/blog/right-turn-red-laws-usa/
2. https://www.yahoo.com/news/turn-red-arrow-signal-kansas-182535767.html
3. https://www.millerandhinelaw.com/kansas-city-intersection-accidents/
