Right turns on red lights are legal in Missouri
, as long as you yield to other drivers and pedestrians and follow all other state traffic laws
. But local governments are allowed to ban turning right on red at some intersections, so you should always check for a sign before turning. Compare insurance quotes from 50+ carriers with Jerry in under 45 seconds
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Yes. You can turn right on red in Missouri, as long as there isn’t a posted sign at the intersection that prohibits the turn.
According to Title XIX, Chapter 304 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri, a driver may turn right at a steady or blinking red light if:
There is no posted sign at the intersection prohibiting right turns on red
The driver first yields right of way to pedestrians and other traffic
The driver has a clear view of approaching traffic
In short, the best way to make sure a right turn on red is legal is to look for a posted sign.
If there isn’t a sign, and turning right on red can be accomplished safely, you’re free to turn. Just make sure to come to a complete stop first, and proceed with caution, keeping an eye out for other drivers and pedestrians.
What about left turns on red?
Turning left on red is always illegal in Missouri.
Unlike many parts of the country, Missouri does not permit turning left on red from a one-way street onto another one-way street. In this circumstance, drivers are expected to wait at the intersection until the light turns green before proceeding.
Key Takeaway You may turn right on red in Missouri as long as there’s no posted sign banning it—but always make sure to yield to pedestrians and approaching traffic.
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Start earning nowPenalties for an illegal right turn on red in Missouri
While it’s legal to make a right turn on red in Missouri the majority of the time, it’s still possible to be ticketed for performing an illegal right on red turn.
A right turn at a red light that violates Missouri law is a misdemeanor offense and carries a range of possible penalties. The most common penalty is a fine of about $99, but fines can be as much as $500. In severe cases, you could face jail time of up to one year.
You will also incur points to your Missouri driving record
. Accumulating eight points over 18 months will result in license suspension
. Some traffic tickets can cause your car insurance rates
to rise. Insurance companies penalize negligent driving behavior with increased costs. After a right-on-red violation, you’re seen as riskier to insure
and, as a result, will face higher monthly premiums. Key Takeaway If you’re uncertain whether turning right on red can be accomplished safely, it’s best to wait for the light to turn green before proceeding.
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