Kansas traffic laws regarding right turns on red signals have remained consistent into 2025, with clear guidelines for drivers at intersections. Understanding these rules is essential for safe and lawful driving throughout the state.
Right Turn on Red: The Core Rule
In Kansas, drivers facing a steady red signal may make a right turn after coming to a complete stop, unless a sign specifically prohibits such a turn. This applies to both standard red lights and red arrow signals. Here’s how the law works:
- Stop First: You must come to a complete stop at the clearly marked stop line, or if none exists, before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection. If there is no crosswalk, stop before entering the intersection itself.
- Check for Prohibitions: Look for posted signs such as “No Turn on Red.” If such a sign is present, you must wait for a green signal before turning.
- Yield the Right-of-Way: After stopping, you must yield to:
- Any vehicle in the intersection or approaching closely enough to be an immediate hazard.
- Pedestrians lawfully within an adjacent crosswalk.
- Other traffic lawfully using the intersection.
- Proceed with Caution: Only turn when it is safe to do so, ensuring you do not interfere with other road users.
Red Arrow Signals
Kansas law treats a steady red arrow the same as a steady red light for right turns:
- Right Turn on Red Arrow: After stopping, you may turn right on a red arrow unless a sign prohibits it, following the same yield requirements as with a circular red light.
- Left Turn on Red Arrow: If you are on a one-way street turning left onto another one-way street, you may turn left on red after stopping, unless prohibited by signage.
Special Cases and Local Variations
- Local Ordinances: Some cities or intersections may have stricter rules, so always check for posted signs and local regulations.
- Red Light Cameras: Increasing use of red light cameras means violations can result in automated tickets.
Motorcycles and Bicycles
If a motorcycle or bicycle is not detected by the traffic signal and the light does not change within a reasonable time, the rider may proceed through the red light after stopping and yielding, provided it is safe.
Safety Tips
- Always be especially cautious of pedestrians, who may be crossing even when you have stopped and checked for vehicles.
- Never assume other drivers or pedestrians see you or will yield.
- Double-check for cyclists and smaller vehicles that may be harder to spot.
Table: Kansas Right Turn on Red Rule (2025)
| Situation | Allowed? | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Right turn on steady red light | Yes | Stop, check for signs, yield to vehicles/pedestrians |
| Right turn on steady red arrow | Yes | Same as above |
| Left turn from one-way to one-way on red | Yes | Stop, check for signs, yield to vehicles/pedestrians |
| Turn on red where sign prohibits | No | Must wait for green |
| Proceed without stopping | No | Complete stop required |
| Motorcycle/bicycle not detected by signal | Yes (special) | Stop, ensure safe, yield to all other road users |
Kansas law in 2025 continues to allow right turns on red lights and red arrows after a full stop, unless specifically prohibited by signage. Drivers must always yield to pedestrians and other vehicles, ensuring the turn can be made safely. Local ordinances and increased use of red light cameras mean drivers should stay alert for intersection-specific rules. By following these guidelines, drivers can navigate Kansas intersections safely and legally.
SOURCES:-
[1] https://codes.findlaw.com/ks/chapter-8-automobiles-and-other-vehicles/ks-st-sect-8-1508/
[2] https://paolaks.citycode.net/artiTrafSignSignAndMark2.htm
[3] https://www.castlelaw-kc.com/library/kansas-and-missouris-new-traffic-laws-what-you-need-to-know.cfm
[4] https://www.yahoo.com/news/turn-red-arrow-signal-kansas-182535767.html
[5] https://www.ksrevenue.gov/pdf/dlhb.pdf
