What all Arizona Drivers Should Know:
Turning right at a red light is a common driving maneuver—but in Arizona, it’s not always legal. Knowing when a right turn on red is permitted can help you avoid traffic tickets, fines, or even more serious legal consequences.
If you’ve been cited for a traffic violation in Scottsdale, Lake Havasu, or anywhere in Arizona, here’s what you need to know.
Is It Legal to Turn Right on Red in Arizona?
Yes, Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-645 allows drivers to turn right on red—but only if all conditions are met:
- The driver comes to a complete stop before the turn
- There is no posted sign prohibiting the turn
- The driver yields to pedestrians, cyclists, and oncoming traffic
- The intersection is safe to enter
Failing to follow these rules could result in a citation, fines, and points on your license.
A Complete Stop Is Required
Arizona law requires a full stop at the red light before turning. Rolling through—even if the road appears clear—violates traffic law and may result in a ticket.
Police officers often cite drivers for treating red lights as yield signs during right turns.
Pay Attention to “No Turn on Red” Signs
Certain intersections prohibit right turns on red entirely. Look out for clearly posted “No Turn on Red” signs—commonly found:
- Near schools
- In downtown or high-traffic areas
- At intersections with poor visibility
- Where pedestrian traffic is high
Disregarding these signs can lead to fines and potential points against your driving record.
Pedestrians and Cyclists Have the Right-of-Way
Even when turning is legal, pedestrians and cyclists always take priority. You must yield to:
- Pedestrians in any crosswalk (marked or unmarked)
- Cyclists traveling through the intersection lawfully
Failing to yield could result in more serious penalties—especially if someone is injured.
What About Left Turns on Red?
Arizona also allows left turns on red, but only in a specific case:
You may turn left from a one-way street onto another one-way street after coming to a full stop and yielding to traffic.
Any other type of left-on-red turn is illegal.
Can You Get a Ticket for Turning Right on Red?
Yes. Common reasons for receiving a right-on-red citation in Arizona include:
- Failing to stop completely
- Disobeying posted signs
- Failing to yield to traffic or pedestrians
- Turning in unsafe conditions (e.g., poor visibility)
These violations may seem minor, but they can result in fines, insurance increases, and points that affect your license. In some cases, traffic citations may even be linked to more serious criminal or DUI charges.
Facing a Traffic Violation in Arizona? We Can Help.
At Rideout Law Group, we represent clients in Scottsdale, Lake Havasu City, and across Arizona who are facing traffic tickets, criminal charges, or DUI cases.
Our legal team, led by experienced trial attorneys like Brad Rideout, Carolyn Keist-Gilbert, George Hibbeler, and Steven Eckhardt, will review your case, identify legal defenses, and work to reduce or dismiss penalties.
📍 Scottsdale Office: 11111 N Scottsdale Rd, Suite 225, Scottsdale, AZ 85254
📍 Lake Havasu City Office: 2800 Sweetwater Ave, Suite A104, Lake Havasu City, AZ 86406
📞 Call us today at (480) 584-3328 or (928) 854-8181 for a free consultation.
This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. For legal guidance specific to your situation, please contact a licensed attorney at Rideout Law Group.