Turning at intersections is a normal part of driving—but did you know it’s also one of the top causes of traffic accidents in cities like Salem, Oregon? Understanding the rules for turning on red lights can help you avoid accidents, fines, and confusion.
In this guide, we’ll explain what Oregon law says about turning right or left on a red light in 2025, and how to do it safely and legally.
Can You Turn Right on a Red Light in Oregon?
Yes, you can. In Oregon, the law allows drivers to turn right at a red traffic light, but only under certain conditions.
Rules for Right Turn on Red
You must come to a full stop before turning.
Check for pedestrians and cross traffic, and yield to them.
Do not turn if there is a sign saying “No Turn on Red.”
Follow any instructions given by a police officer or traffic enforcer at the intersection.
If the red light is flashing, you should treat it like a stop sign. That means stop, look, and go only when it is safe.
Important Tip: You are not required to turn on red. Only turn if it is safe. Never rush just because the road looks empty.
Can You Turn Left on a Red Light in Oregon?
This rule is different from many other states. In Oregon, you can turn left on red in some situations—but not all.
When Left Turn on Red is Allowed
You must be turning onto a one-way street.
You may turn from either a one-way or two-way road, as long as you are going onto a one-way road.
You must stop fully, check for signs, and yield before turning.
When Left Turn on Red is NOT Allowed:
You cannot turn left at a red light onto a two-way street.
Signs saying “No Turn on Red” overrule this rule.
So remember: One-way to one-way left turns on red are legal, but turning left onto a two-way street at a red light is illegal in Oregon.
What About Red Arrows?
Oregon law treats solid red arrows the same as red lights:
You must stop completely.
Do not turn unless there’s no sign prohibiting it and it’s safe.
However, some states do not allow turning on a red arrow, so if you’re visiting another state, check their local rules.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Rolling through a red light without stopping first.
Turning without checking for pedestrians or cyclists.
Ignoring “No Turn on Red” signs.
Turning left onto a two-way street on a red light—this is not allowed.
Any of these mistakes can lead to fines, points on your driving record, or worse—an accident.
Safe Driving Tips at Red Lights in Oregon
Stop fully before turning on red.
Look for and obey posted signs.
Yield to anyone already in the intersection.
If visibility is poor, wait for the green light.
When in doubt, don’t turn. It’s always better to be safe.
In Oregon, the 2025 rules for turning on red lights are quite simple—but they must be followed carefully. You can turn right on red after stopping and checking, and you can turn left on red only from or onto one-way streets. If there’s a sign that says no turn, follow it.
These rules are designed to keep both drivers and pedestrians safe. So, always stop first, check your surroundings, and turn only when you’re sure it’s legal and safe.
