Kansas has recently updated its Right Turn on Red (RTOR) rule in 2025, aiming to improve traffic flow while prioritizing safety for all road users. This update builds upon the state’s long-standing practice of allowing right turns at red lights, with some important modifications and clarifications.
Key Components of the Updated RTOR Rule
Complete Stop Requirement
The new rule emphasizes the importance of coming to a complete stop before making a right turn on red. Drivers must stop fully at the designated stop line, or if there isn’t one, before entering the crosswalk or intersection. This is not a rolling stop; vehicles must cease all forward motion before proceeding.
Yielding to Pedestrians and Cyclists
One of the most significant changes in the 2025 update is the explicit requirement to yield to pedestrians and cyclists. Drivers must now yield to any pedestrians or cyclists entering the lane they’re turning into, regardless of whether they are in a marked crosswalk. This expansion of the yielding requirement aims to enhance safety for vulnerable road users.
Visibility and Signaling
The updated rule stresses the importance of having a clear line of sight before making the turn. Drivers must be able to see oncoming traffic, pedestrians, and cyclists from both directions. Additionally, the use of turn signals is now explicitly required to indicate the intention to turn.
Intersection Approach
Kansas City’s municipal code specifies that vehicles turning right on red must approach and move through the intersection as close to the right as possible. This means drivers should turn from the rightmost lane into the rightmost lane of the street they’re entering.
When RTOR is Prohibited
It’s crucial to note that there are situations where right turns on red are not allowed:
- When a sign explicitly prohibits it.
- When the traffic signal displays a red arrow (although this is subject to some exceptions).
- When it would interfere with the right-of-way of other vehicles or pedestrians.
Left Turns on Red
Interestingly, Kansas law also allows for left turns on red in specific circumstances. This is permitted when turning from a one-way street onto another one-way street, provided it can be done safely and after coming to a complete stop.
Safety Considerations
While the RTOR rule aims to improve traffic flow, it comes with potential safety risks. Drivers should be aware of:
- Increased risk of collisions with pedestrians and cyclists
- Potential for rear-end collisions if stopping suddenly
- Misjudging oncoming traffic when turning
To mitigate these risks, drivers are advised to exercise extra caution, be patient, and always prioritize safety over convenience.
Enforcement and Compliance
The Kansas Department of Transportation and local law enforcement agencies are likely to focus on educating drivers about the new rule and enforcing compliance. Drivers should expect a period of adjustment as everyone becomes familiar with the updated regulations.
The 2025 update to Kansas’s Right Turn on Red rule represents a balanced approach to improving traffic flow while enhancing safety for all road users. By emphasizing complete stops, clear visibility, and yielding to pedestrians and cyclists, the new rule aims to create a safer road environment.
As with any traffic law change, success will depend on driver education, compliance, and consistent enforcement. Drivers in Kansas should familiarize themselves with these updates and always prioritize safety when navigating intersections.
Sources:
- [1] https://loganhockingtimes.com/updated-kansas-traffic-rule-how-to-make-a-right-turn-on-a-red-in-2025/
- [2] https://www.yahoo.com/news/turn-even-left-red-missouri-110000261.html
- [3] https://codes.findlaw.com/ks/chapter-8-automobiles-and-other-vehicles/ks-st-sect-8-1508/
- [4] https://www.yahoo.com/news/turn-red-arrow-signal-kansas-182535767.html
