- General Rule: In Ohio, drivers are permitted to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop, unless there is a sign posted that specifically prohibits such a turn.
- Procedure: Before turning, the driver must:
- Come to a complete stop at the marked stop line, before entering a crosswalk, or before entering the intersection.
- Yield to all pedestrians lawfully within the crosswalk and to any other vehicles already in the intersection.
- Exceptions:
- If there is a “No Turn on Red” sign or a red arrow signal, turning right on red is not permitted.
- Local authorities have the power to prohibit right turns on red at specific intersections and during certain hours for safety reasons, such as near schools or due to congestion. These prohibitions must be clearly indicated with signage.
Key Points from the 2025 Update
- No Major Changes to the Core Rule: As of 2025, the fundamental rule allowing right turns on red after stopping remains unchanged.
- Local Authority: Municipalities and local traffic authorities continue to have the authority to restrict right turns on red at specific intersections. Any such restriction must be clearly marked with signage, and hours of restriction (if any) must be posted.
- Red Arrow Rule: A right turn on a solid red circle is allowed (unless otherwise posted), but a right turn on a red arrow is not permitted.
- Safety Emphasis: Drivers must always yield to pedestrians and oncoming traffic and should exercise extra caution, especially for smaller vehicles like motorcycles, which may be harder to see.
Table: Right Turn on Red in Ohio (2025)
| Situation | Is Right Turn on Red Allowed? |
|---|---|
| After full stop, no sign prohibiting turn | Yes |
| “No Turn on Red” sign posted | No |
| Red arrow signal | No |
| Local ordinance prohibits at certain times | No, during posted hours |
| Pedestrian or vehicle in crosswalk/intersection | No, must yield first |
- You may turn right on red in Ohio after stopping, unless a sign or red arrow prohibits it.
- Always yield to pedestrians and other vehicles.
- Check for local restrictions, as some intersections may have special rules or hours.
The law prioritizes safety and clarity: if in doubt, look for posted signs and always yield before turning.
Sources
[1] https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/chapter-4511
[2] https://www.columbusdefensefirm.com/what-is-considered-running-a-red-light-in-ohio/
[3] https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/lakewood/latest/lakewood_oh/0-0-0-63098
[4] https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/mountgilead/latest/mtgilead_oh/0-0-0-35552
[5] https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-4511.13
