As of 2025, the rules for making right turns on red lights in Wisconsin remain largely unchanged. Here’s an overview of the current regulations and any relevant updates:
Current Rules
Right Turns on Red: Drivers in Wisconsin are allowed to make right turns on red lights after coming to a complete stop. They must proceed with caution and yield to pedestrians, bicyclists, and other vehicles with the right of way.
Exceptions: Right turns on red are not permitted if there is a sign at the intersection prohibiting such turns, or if it would require crossing lanes of moving traffic.
Left Turns on Red: Wisconsin also allows left turns on red under specific conditions—when turning from a one-way street onto another one-way street. Drivers must stop and yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians.
Safety Considerations
Pedestrian and Bicyclist Safety: There has been a growing concern nationwide about pedestrian and bicyclist safety related to right turns on red. Some cities have considered banning this practice to reduce accidents.
Wisconsin’s Approach: While Wisconsin has not announced plans to ban right turns on red, drivers are still required to exercise caution and yield to vulnerable road users.
Legal Implications
Liability for Accidents: If a driver makes a right turn on red and is involved in an accident, they may still be liable if they failed to yield properly or were otherwise negligent.
Penalties for Violations: Violating traffic signals, including right turns on red, can result in fines and demerits on a driver’s license. More severe penalties apply if the violation results in an accident.
Wisconsin’s rules for right turns on red remain consistent with previous years. Drivers must stop, yield to others, and proceed with caution. While there are no updates to ban this practice in Wisconsin, drivers should remain vigilant to ensure safety on the roads.
Additional Safety Tips
Use Signals: Always use turn signals to indicate your intentions to other drivers.
Check Mirrors and Blind Spots: Regularly check your mirrors and blind spots to stay aware of your surroundings.
Follow Speed Limits: Adhere to posted speed limits and adjust your speed according to road conditions.
Sources
- https://www.mysclaw.com/can-you-turn-left-at-a-red-light-in-wisconsin/
- https://www.hupy.com/faqs/right-turn-on-red-is-not-always-the-right-turn.cfm
- https://www.lawintosa.com/blog/2016/09/rules-of-the-road/
- https://wislawjournal.com/2023/11/17/right-turns-on-red-reconsidered/
- https://law.justia.com/codes/wisconsin/chapter-346/section-346-37/
