In Louisiana in 2025, the rule for making a right turn on a red light is clear and consistent with longstanding state traffic laws. Drivers are allowed to turn right at a red light after coming to a complete stop, but only if there are no signs explicitly prohibiting the right turn. This rule aims to help maintain smoother traffic flow at intersections where making a right turn is safe and appropriate. Before turning, drivers must ensure that pedestrians are not crossing and that there is no oncoming traffic that would have the right of way. Failure to comply with these rules can lead to traffic violations, fines, and potentially increased car insurance premiums.
An important detail is that the right turn on red rule also applies to red arrow signals, meaning a steady red arrow pointing right permits the right turn after a full stop unless otherwise signed. However, turning left on a red light is more restricted and is only allowed when turning from a one-way street onto another one-way street, again after a full stop and when no signs indicate prohibition.
Violations of these rules, including failing to stop fully before turning on red or ignoring no-turn signs, may result in tickets and fines. For example, in some Louisiana parishes, fines for these violations can be nearly $200. Drivers should always exercise caution to avoid accidents and legal penalties.
To summarize, the 2025 update in Louisiana traffic law confirms the following about the right turn on red rule:
- Drivers must stop fully at the red light before turning right.
- The right turn on red is allowed unless specifically prohibited by signage.
- The rule applies to both standard red lights and red right-turn arrows.
- Turning left on red is allowed only from one one-way street onto another.
- Violations can lead to fines and increased insurance costs.
This law balances traffic efficiency with safety concerns for pedestrians and other drivers, emphasizing the need for drivers to be cautious and observant at intersections.
If you need, I can also provide details about penalties, enforcement, or specific city variations within Louisiana.
Sources
[1] https://www.lawyerdon.com/blog/can-you-turn-on-a-red-light
[2] https://www.lawyerdon.com/blog/louisiana-traffic-law-turning-a-vehicle-right-or-left-on-red
[3] https://www.lavislaw.com/new-orleans-turning-stopping-rules-for-vehicles.html
[4] https://www.murphylawfirm.com/blog/louisiana-right-of-way-laws/
[5] https://www.reddit.com/r/NewOrleans/comments/1jrwrf7/turning_right_on_red_arrow/
