Louisiana’s right-turn-on-red rule remains unchanged in 2026, allowing drivers to turn after a full stop unless prohibited by signs. Under La. R.S. 32:232, this promotes traffic flow while prioritizing safety at intersections.
Rule Basics
Faced with a steady red light, drivers must stop completely behind the limit line or crosswalk. They may then cautiously turn right if no sign bans it and the way is clear of oncoming traffic, pedestrians, or cyclists. Left turns on red are permitted only from a one-way street onto another one-way street, following the same stop-and-yield protocol.
2026 Updates
No legislative changes affect right-turn-on-red in 2026; focus shifts to hands-free cell laws effective January 1, with warnings until then. Core traffic signals in La. R.S. 32:232 stay consistent, emphasizing yields to maintain right-of-way principles.
When Prohibited
Signs reading “No Turns on Red” override permission, common near schools, busy pedestrian areas, or sight-limited spots. Always check for these—violations draw $150–$200 fines plus points on licenses. U-turns on red follow similar rules where allowed, but caution applies.
Safety Requirements
Yield to all cross-traffic with green or yellow lights, plus anyone in crosswalks. Proceed only when safe, using turn signals at least 100 feet prior (La. R.S. 32:184). Motorcycles and large vehicles face tighter visibility challenges.
Common Violations and Penalties
Failure to stop fully or yield leads to red-light tickets ($193+ in parishes like Jefferson), insurance hikes, and accident liability. Collisions during illegal turns invoke comparative fault, potentially barring recovery. Cameras in cities like New Orleans enforce strictly.
Best Practices
Scan mirrors, shoulders, and paths twice before turning. At night or rain, wait longer for visibility. Defensive drivers avoid rushing, reducing T-bone risks common in right-on-red crashes.
SOURCES:
- https://www.lawyerdon.com/blog/louisiana-traffic-law-turning-a-vehicle-right-or-left-on-red
- https://legis.la.gov/Legis/Law.aspx?d=88198
