As of 2025, Illinois law continues to allow drivers to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop, unless there is a posted sign specifically prohibiting such a turn. This rule applies statewide, but local municipalities can and do restrict right turns on red at specific intersections for safety reasons.
Key requirements for making a right turn on red in Illinois:
- Complete Stop: Drivers must come to a full stop at the stop line, before the crosswalk, or before entering the intersection if neither is present.
- Yielding: After stopping, drivers must yield the right-of-way to all vehicles and pedestrians lawfully within the intersection or crosswalk.
- Signage: If a sign is posted prohibiting right turns on red, drivers must obey it and wait for a green signal.
Local Restrictions
Some cities and towns in Illinois, such as Oak Park, have designated intersections where right turns on red are either always prohibited or restricted during certain hours (for example, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.). These restrictions are clearly marked with signage at the affected intersections.
Safety and Policy Developments
- Rising Safety Concerns: There is a growing movement in Illinois and across the U.S. to reconsider or restrict right turns on red, largely due to increased pedestrian and bicyclist injuries and fatalities. Studies have shown that many drivers “roll through” red lights rather than coming to a complete stop, heightening risks for pedestrians.
- Potential for Change: While right turn on red remains legal in most of Illinois, advocacy groups and some policymakers are calling for broader bans or more restrictions, especially in urban areas with high pedestrian traffic. As of 2025, no statewide ban has been enacted, but local restrictions are becoming more common.
What Drivers Should Do
- Always come to a full stop before turning right on red.
- Yield to all pedestrians and vehicles in the intersection or crosswalk.
- Obey all posted signs restricting or prohibiting right turns on red.
- Be especially cautious in cities or areas with high pedestrian activity, where additional restrictions may apply.
Table: Illinois Right Turn on Red (2025)
| Rule | Status in 2025 | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Right turn on red allowed statewide | Yes | Unless posted otherwise |
| Complete stop required | Yes | Must stop before crosswalk or intersection |
| Must yield to pedestrians and vehicles | Yes | Required by law |
| Local restrictions possible | Yes | Check for posted signs |
| Statewide ban in effect | No | Movement for more restrictions is ongoing |
In 2025, Illinois drivers may turn right on red after stopping and yielding, unless a posted sign prohibits it. Local restrictions are increasing, and safety concerns may lead to more changes in the future, so always watch for signage and be alert to pedestrians and cyclists.
Sources
[1] https://1440wrok.com/banning-right-turn-on-red-in-illinois-heres-why-it-could-happen/
[2] https://tpmblegal.com/right-of-way-laws-in-illinois/
[3] https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/oakparkil/latest/oakpark_il/0-0-0-7727
[4] https://www.smartcitiesdive.com/news/right-turns-on-red-light-put-pedestrians-at-risk-mineta-study/738332/
[5] https://www.cbsnews.com/news/pedestrian-deaths-right-on-red-ban/
