A new California law just made a big change to something drivers have long taken for granted: the right to turn on red.
Starting in 2025, new restrictions on turning right at red lights are in place in many areas across the state—and if you’re not paying attention, a quick right could cost you hundreds in fines.
🔥 What’s Changed in 2025?
The new legislation, signed into law earlier this year, gives cities and counties the authority to prohibit right turns on red at busy intersections, school zones, and high pedestrian traffic areas.
Here’s what drivers need to know:
➤ Right Turns on Red Are No Longer Automatically Allowed in certain marked areas.
➤ Many urban intersections will now feature “No Turn on Red” signs—especially in downtown Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego.
➤ New camera enforcement systems will issue tickets for illegal right turns at red lights in designated zones.
📍 Where This Applies
The law allows local governments to set their own restrictions, so rules will vary by city. Expect stricter enforcement in:
- 🚦 Los Angeles (Downtown, Koreatown, and near schools)
- 🚸 San Francisco (Market Street and school safety zones)
- 🏙️ Oakland and Sacramento (high pedestrian corridors)
Other cities are likely to follow as data shows reduced pedestrian injuries at intersections with restricted red turns.
🧠 Why California Changed the Law
Lawmakers and safety advocates say the goal is to reduce accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists, especially in dense, walkable neighborhoods.
“Drivers often roll through red lights without fully stopping or checking for foot traffic,” said State Senator Carla Salinas, a key sponsor of the bill.
In 2023 alone, California reported over 4,000 pedestrian injuries at intersections involving turning vehicles—many occurring during right-on-red maneuvers.
✅ What Drivers Should Do Now
📌 Look for new signage: If it says “No Turn on Red,” that rule is now enforceable—even if you’re used to turning there.
📌 Don’t rely on habit: Intersections that once allowed right turns may now be restricted.
📌 Stop completely before any right-on-red attempt. California law still requires a full stop before turning, regardless of signage.
📌 Check your city’s website or local news for lists of updated intersections and red-light camera zones.
⚠️ Fines and Penaltie
- 🚨 Typical fine: $238
- ➕ Traffic school and point on your record may apply
- 📷 If caught by camera, you’ll receive a mailed citation with photographic evidence
📊 What Californians Think
According to a 2025 statewide survey by the California Highway Safety Coalition:
- ✅ 69% support stricter right-turn-on-red restrictions in school zones
- ✅ 74% say drivers rarely make a full stop before turning
- ✅ 81% believe pedestrian safety needs stronger legal protections
🔗 Final Word
California’s new right-turn-on-red law isn’t about making driving harder—it’s about making streets safer for everyone. Whether you’re commuting through LA or picking up kids near a school zone, a single missed sign could cost you.
This piece was written by Mary Berg. Light AI tools assisted with grammar checks and layout polish. All editorial decisions and wording remain fully human and original.
