The Light That Is Changing
Mo. Rev. Stat. § 304.281 — the yellow warns that a red will follow when traffic shall not enter, and a right turn on red
The yellow is a warning. Traffic facing a steady yellow signal is warned that the related green movement is being terminated, or that a red indication will be exhibited immediately after, when traffic shall not enter the intersection.
Red, then a right turn. Traffic facing a steady red alone stops before the near crosswalk at a clearly marked stop line or, if none, before the intersection, and remains standing. A driver stopped as close as practicable to the near crosswalk may then cautiously enter to turn right, yielding to pedestrians and other traffic.
Where it is barred. The state highways and transportation commission, for an intersection with a state highway, and local authorities, for their own highways, may prohibit a right turn on red where safety conditions require, effective when a sign giving notice is erected.
| The light | What the section says |
|---|---|
| The lightSteady yellow | What the section saysA warning that the green is ending or a red is coming, when traffic shall not enter |
| The lightSteady red | What the section saysStop before the crosswalk or intersection and remain standing |
| The lightRight turn on red | What the section saysAfter stopping and yielding, unless a sign prohibits it |
Arrows, flashing lights and pedestrian signals are set out in the same sections, and not all of them are on this page. What a particular ticket means is a question for a licensed Missouri attorney.
Sources for this section (1)
- Mo. Rev. Stat. § 304.281 — Rules for traffic where controlled by light signals; right turn on red light
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Missouri attorney.