As of 2025, Alabama’s rules regarding right turns on red remain consistent with previous years and align with general U.S. practice. Motorists in Alabama are permitted to turn right at a red traffic signal unless a posted sign specifically prohibits it. This rule, however, comes with critical requirements emphasizing safety, right-of-way, and situational awareness.
According to the updated guidance and Alabama law, when approaching a red light intending to turn right, a driver must first come to a complete stop before crossing the stop line, crosswalk, or entering the intersection. This isn’t merely a recommendation—it’s a legal requirement, and failing to stop completely can be considered running a red light, subject to fines and other penalties. The stop allows the driver time to assess the intersection for pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles that may have the right of way.
After stopping, the driver must yield to all pedestrians lawfully crossing within the intersection or crosswalk, as well as any vehicles proceeding through the intersection or turning left across the driver’s path who possess a green light. In all scenarios, the vehicle with a green signal retains the right of way, and those turning right on red must ensure the movement does not interfere with crossing traffic. Alabama law makes it clear that red light turners do not have priority; any turn must be made cautiously and only when it’s safe and clear.
Drivers should also remain vigilant for signage that prohibits right turns on red. Municipalities and specific intersections may restrict right turns during certain hours or altogether due to high pedestrian traffic or visibility concerns. Where such signage exists, turning right on red is forbidden, and violation may result in a citation.
The rationale behind these safety-focused regulations is to minimize accidents involving pedestrians, bicyclists, and cross-traffic. National data and local accident statistics have prompted some jurisdictions within and outside Alabama to consider further restrictions, especially where right-on-red incidents pose elevated risks.
For 2025 and beyond, drivers in Alabama may turn right on red after a full stop as long as there is no posted sign against it, the intersection is safe and clear, all right-of-way obligations are met, and the maneuver does not endanger others. Green-lighted cross-traffic and left-turning vehicles always have priority over those turning right on red. Compliance ensures smooth traffic flow, pedestrian safety, and avoidance of fines associated with improper stops or illegal turns. Remaining aware of signage and local ordinances is equally important, as some intersections may implement tighter controls even if state law broadly permits right turns on red.
Sources
[1] https://953thebear.com/shocking-new-rule-for-right-turns-at-red-lights-in-alabama/
[2] https://www.mkhlawyers.com/blog/can-you-turn-right-on-red-in-alabama/
[3] https://www.smithlawal.com/how-running-red-lights-causes-car-accidents/
[4] https://www.alabamainjurylawyer.com/blog/right-of-way-laws-in-alabama/
[5] https://www.reddit.com/r/driving/comments/1bhugwg/al_who_has_rightofway_right_on_red_or_left_on/
