In Mississippi, the rule for making a right turn on red remains largely unchanged as of 2025. Drivers are allowed to make a right turn after stopping completely, but there are some important conditions and exceptions to keep in mind.
These rules aim to improve road safety for everyone, including pedestrians and other drivers. Here’s what you need to know about the “Right Turn on Red” rule in Mississippi as of 2025.
Full Stop is Required
Before making a right turn on red, drivers must stop their vehicle completely at the intersection. This stop is important to ensure that there are no immediate risks from other vehicles or pedestrians. It gives you time to check for any traffic or people crossing the street before you proceed.
Yield to Pedestrians and Other Traffic
After coming to a complete stop, the driver must yield the right-of-way to all pedestrians who are lawfully in the crosswalk. Additionally, drivers need to give the right-of-way to any vehicles lawfully using the intersection. The key idea here is safety—whether it’s pedestrians or other drivers, always be cautious and make sure it’s clear before making your move.
Obey “No Turn on Red” Signs
At some intersections, you may see signs that say “No Turn on Red.” If this sign is posted, you are not allowed to turn right on red. You must wait until the light turns green to proceed. These signs are typically placed in areas where a right turn on red might be unsafe, such as busy intersections or areas with limited visibility.
Left Turn on Red (One-Way Streets)
An interesting exception to the standard rule applies at intersections of two one-way streets. In this situation, a left turn on red is allowed after the driver has made a complete stop. However, this is only permitted if there are no signs specifically prohibiting it. Like right turns, drivers must still yield to any pedestrians or vehicles before making the turn.
2025 Legislative Updates
There were no major changes to the right turn on red law in 2025. While Mississippi’s legislature focused on other issues like insurance minimums, traffic camera technology, and distracted driving, the rules for right turns on red stayed the same.
The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) ran a campaign to clarify driving laws in 2025, but there were no new restrictions on right turns on red.
Stricter Enforcement of Traffic Violations
Although the core rule remains unchanged, the penalties for traffic violations, including improper right turns, may be stricter under new laws. In 2025, the state has introduced more rigorous enforcement, so drivers should be careful to fully comply with traffic laws to avoid fines.
This includes ensuring a complete stop, yielding to pedestrians, and obeying all posted signs at intersections.
Sources:
1. https://codes.findlaw.com/ms/title-63-motor-vehicles-traffic-regulations/ms-code-sect-63-3-309/
2. https://law.justia.com/codes/mississippi/title-63/chapter-3/article-7/section-63-3-309/
3. https://mdot.ms.gov/portal/news_release_view/2235
