In an effort to improve road safety, especially for pedestrians and cyclists, Pennsylvania updated its Right Turn on Red (RTOR) regulations in 2025. While the law still allows right turns at red lights in most areas, the new changes introduce stricter guidelines, expanded restrictions, and tougher enforcement.
What Is the Right Turn on Red Rule?
In Pennsylvania, drivers are generally permitted to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop—unless a sign explicitly prohibits it. This rule helps manage traffic flow and reduce delays at intersections. However, it has also posed risks to pedestrians and cyclists, leading to the 2025 revisions.
Key 2025 Changes to RTOR
Contrary to rumors, Pennsylvania did not ban right turns on red statewide. Instead, the state introduced targeted updates aimed at improving safety:
- More “No Turn on Red” Signs: Expect to see increased signage in urban areas, near schools, hospitals, crosswalks, and high pedestrian zones, especially in cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.
- Enhanced Enforcement: Police are now more active in monitoring RTOR violations at key intersections. Automated cameras may also be used to catch offenders.
- Pedestrian and Cyclist Protections: Drivers must now yield to cyclists in bike lanes and pedestrians in crosswalks—even where RTOR is permitted.
- School Zone Crackdown: Intersections near schools are under tighter surveillance, with heavier fines and points for violations.
The Updated RTOR Rules Drivers Must Follow
- Full Stop Required:
A rolling stop is not enough. Drivers must come to a complete stop before turning right at a red light. - Follow Posted Signs:
No Turn on Red means exactly that—do not turn, regardless of traffic flow. - Yield First:
Pedestrians and cyclists now have clear legal priority. If someone is crossing or in a bike lane, you must yield. - Special Focus Zones:
Be especially cautious in downtown areas, near schools, and busy intersections, where new restrictions and monitoring are more likely.
Red Arrow and Malfunctioning Light Clarifications
- Red Arrow Turns:
Pennsylvania still allows right turns on red arrows unless posted otherwise, but a full stop and yield are required. - Malfunctioning Traffic Lights:
A separate 2025 law allows cautious progression through a clearly malfunctioning red light—after exercising due care.
Penalties for Violations
Violating RTOR rules under the new regulations can result in:
- Traffic tickets and fines (higher in school zones or for repeat offenses)
- Points on your driving record
- Increased insurance premiums
Authorities are paying close attention to intersections that have been updated with new signage or are located in high-risk pedestrian zones.
Why the Change?
The revised law is a response to a rise in pedestrian and bicycle injuries at intersections where drivers failed to yield properly during red-light turns. By targeting high-risk zones and reinforcing the importance of stopping and yielding, the state aims to reduce accidents and make the roads safer for all.
Bottom Line
In 2025, Right Turn on Red remains legal in most of Pennsylvania. However, drivers must:
- Always stop fully
- Read and obey new signage
- Yield to pedestrians and cyclists
- Be extra cautious in urban and school areas
Following these updated rules is essential—not only to avoid fines but also to help protect vulnerable road users throughout the state.
