For decades, right turns on red lights have been a standard part of driving in Illinois. However, in light of growing concerns about the safety of pedestrians and the development of local legislation, it is imperative that every motorist in the state understands how the rule operates in the year 2025. This is a comprehensive guide that will walk you through the present law, its exceptions, and what you should be on the lookout for when you ride on roadways in Illinois.
The Current Law: Right Turn on Red
As of July 2025, the law in Illinois continues to let cars to make right turns on red at the majority of intersections, provided that they adhere to the following necessary steps:
- Bring Your Vehicle to a Complete Stop: Before turning, you are required to bring your vehicle to a complete stop at the stop line, the crosswalk, or before entering the junction as well.
- Give Way to Oncoming Traffic and Pedestrians: Give way to all cars that are approaching from behind, and most importantly, to any pedestrians who are sitting in the crosswalk.
- Obey Posted Signs: You are required to wait for the green light if there is a sign at the intersection that state it is forbidden to make a right turn when the light is red. Signs like these are frequently found in places where there is a lot of foot activity, like the downtown region of Chicago or in close proximity to schools.
- The Red Arrow Rule states that it is never acceptable to make a right turn on a red arrow, regardless of whether there is traffic or pedestrians present.
Local Variations and New Developments
Despite the fact that the rule that applies across the entire state is still in effect, local governments have the authority to further restrict right turns on red at certain crossings. This is particularly true in urban regions that experience high levels of foot traffic, when the safety of pedestrians is a primary concern:
- The approach taken by Chicago: The city government of Chicago has declared plans to prohibit right turns on red at more intersections; but, as of the middle of the year 2025, there is no citywide ban on the practice. One might anticipate an increase in the number of “No Turn on Red” signs, particularly in the downtown area and in close proximity to busy crosswalks.
- Other Municipalities: There is also the possibility that other municipalities in Illinois, including suburbs and other cities, will impose their own limits. Always keep an eye out for signs that have been put, and be aware of any local restrictions.
Why the Rule Is Important: For the Safety of Pedestrians
The increase in the number of pedestrian deaths across the country is the impetus behind the demand for more stringent legislation regarding right-on-red. Over 7,500 pedestrians were killed by vehicles in the United States in 2022, making it the greatest number of pedestrian deaths since 1981. Pedestrians who are attacked by vehicles that are making right turns, particularly larger vehicles such as pickup trucks and SUVs, have a dramatically increased risk of being killed, according to studies.
What Should Drivers Do in This Situation
To ensure compliance with the rules of 2025 and to maintain safety:
- Before going right on red, always stop completely.
- Make sure you give way to all pedestrians and moving vehicles.
- Be aware of and follow any signs that say “No Turn on Red” because these signs supersede the general norm.
- In metropolitan locations, close to schools, and at crossroads with a lot of traffic, be extra cautious.
Be sure to keep up with the local ordinances, as it is possible that city-specific restrictions will change before the laws of the state do.
Quick Reference Table
| Rule/Condition | Requirement in 2025 |
|---|---|
| Right turn on red allowed? | Yes, unless posted otherwise |
| Complete stop required? | Yes |
| Yield to pedestrians/traffic? | Yes |
| Red arrow—right turn allowed? | No |
| Local restrictions possible? | Yes, check for signs |
Looking Ahead
The majority of Illinois continues to allow drivers to make right turns on red lights; but, there is a growing trend for tighter limitations in urban areas, notably in response to concerns about the safety of pedestrians. In the next years, you may anticipate an increase in the number of junctions that will prohibit right turns on red, particularly in Chicago and other large cities.
Under the ever-changing rules, it is essential to maintain vigilance, adhere to the signs that are displayed, and give way to pedestrians in order to ensure compliance and safety.
