As of 2025, Virginia’s right-turn-on-red rule remains largely the same at its core: drivers are generally permitted to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop, unless a sign explicitly prohibits it. However, there are significant updates and increased enforcement measures that drivers in Virginia need to be aware of, particularly in urban and high-traffic areas.
Here’s a breakdown of the Virginia Right Turn on Red Rule and its 2025 updates:
Core Rule (Unchanged):
- Complete Stop: You must come to a full and complete stop at the marked stop line or before entering the crosswalk. A “rolling stop” is illegal and will be enforced.
- Yield Right-of-Way: After stopping, you must yield the right-of-way to:
- Pedestrians: Those lawfully within an adjacent crosswalk.
- Oncoming Vehicles: Any vehicles with a green traffic light or already in the intersection.
- Bicyclists: Be sure to check for less visible vehicles like motorcycles and bicycles.
- No Turn on Red Signs: If a sign is posted at the intersection that reads “No Turn on Red,” you are prohibited from turning right.
- Red Arrow Signals: If a steady red arrow is displayed for the right turn, you cannot turn right on red unless there is a sign specifically permitting it (e.g., “Right on Red Arrow After Stop”).
2025 Updates and Increased Enforcement:
- More “No Turn on Red” Signs: Local governments in cities like Alexandria, Arlington, Richmond, and parts of Fairfax County are installing more prominent “No Turn on Red” signs, especially in areas with high pedestrian traffic. These signs are often larger, more visible, and sometimes paired with flashing signals.
- Automated Enforcement: Traffic cameras are now active at select intersections to capture vehicles that make illegal or unsafe right turns on red, particularly those that fail to come to a full stop or do not yield to pedestrians.
- Increased Fines and Penalties: Fines and penalties for right-turn-on-red violations have increased, with special attention paid to school zones and urban crosswalks. Violations may also result in demerit points on your driving record.
- Targeted Police Enforcement: Police are directing more enforcement efforts toward right-turn-on-red violations in high-risk areas.
- Longer Red Arrow Signals: Some intersections may feature red arrow signals that stay lit for extended periods during peak pedestrian traffic hours, further restricting right turns during those times.
- Focus on Pedestrian Safety: The primary reason for these updates is to enhance pedestrian safety and reduce accidents, as many incidents occurred when drivers failed to yield to pedestrians while turning right on red.
What Drivers Need to Do:
- Be Vigilant: Always pay close attention to traffic signs and signals at intersections, even if you are familiar with the area. Intersections where you previously could turn right on red might now have restrictions.
- Stop Completely: Ensure you make a full and complete stop before turning right on red.
- Prioritize Pedestrians and Cyclists: Always yield to pedestrians and cyclists in crosswalks or approaching the intersection.
- Understand Red Arrows: A red arrow means no turn is allowed in the direction of the arrow unless specifically permitted by signage.
- Exercise Caution: If you are unsure whether a right turn on red is allowed or safe at an intersection, it is always best to wait for a green light.
These updates emphasize a shift towards stricter adherence to the existing right-turn-on-red law, with a greater focus on safety, especially for vulnerable road users.
Sources
[1] https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title46.2/chapter8/section46.2-835/
[2] https://keeferlaw.org/2025-virginia-traffic-rule-update/
[3] https://thewrangler.com/virginia-new-rule-on-right-turns-at-red-lights-everything-drivers-need-to-know/2025/06/29/
[4] https://www.arlingtonva.us/Government/Programs/Transportation/Vision-Zero/Action/Tools-and-Guidelines/Tools/No-Right-Turn-on-Red
[5] https://collincountymagazine.com/2025/07/07/west-virginia-traffic-rule-2025-update-understanding-the-right-turn-on-red-rule/
