Current Law for Motor Vehicles
Under Arkansas law, when approaching a red traffic signal, drivers of motor vehicles must:
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Come to a complete stop before entering the crosswalk or intersection.
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After stopping, drivers may cautiously make a right turn at the red light, unless there is a sign specifically prohibiting such a turn.
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Drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians lawfully within the intersection or crosswalk and to any other vehicles already in the intersection.
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This means the classic “right turn on red” is legal throughout Arkansas, provided the driver stops first and the turn is not otherwise prohibited by signage.
Key Points of the 2025 Law
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No change to the fundamental rule: The 2025 update maintains that a right turn on red is legal after a full stop, unless posted otherwise.
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Turn must be made safely: The driver must yield to all other traffic and pedestrians before proceeding.
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Approach and turn: The right turn must be made as close as practical to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway.
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Special Provision for Cyclists
A new provision for cyclists allows:
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Bicyclists may make a right turn at a red light without stopping—they must slow to a reasonable speed and yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic that poses an immediate hazard.
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This exception applies only to bicycles, not to motor vehicles.
Table: Arkansas “Red Rule” Right Turn (2025)
| Vehicle Type | Must Stop First? | Right Turn on Red Allowed? | Yield to Pedestrians/Traffic? | Exception for Bicycles? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Motor Vehicle | Yes | Yes, unless posted | Yes | No |
| Bicycle | No (if safe) | Yes | Yes | May turn without stopping if saf |
The “Red Rule” in Arkansas for 2025 continues to allow right turns on red after a complete stop for motor vehicles, provided there is no sign prohibiting it and the turn can be made safely. Cyclists have an added allowance to turn right on red without stopping, as long as they slow down and yield as needed.
Sources
[1] https://law.justia.com/codes/arkansas/title-27/subtitle-4/chapter-52/subchapter-1/section-27-52-107/
[2] https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Acts/FTPDocument?path=%2FACTS%2F2025R%2FPublic%2F&file=209.pdf&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R
[3] https://law.justia.com/codes/arkansas/title-27/subtitle-4/chapter-51/subchapter-4/section-27-51-401/
[4] https://codes.findlaw.com/ar/title-27-transportation/ar-code-sect-27-52-107/
[5] https://law.justia.com/codes/arkansas/title-27/subtitle-4/chapter-51/subchapter-18/section-27-51-1803/
