Turning right on red is a convenience many American drivers rely on to keep traffic moving and reduce congestion. Since the federal government first legalized the practice in 1978, it has become an everyday occurrence at traffic lights across the country.

However, concerns about safety, especially in urban areas with high pedestrian and cyclist traffic, have prompted some cities to reconsider the practice. As cities face growing pressure to prioritize pedestrian safety, the question arises: Is turning right on red about to be banned in major U.S. cities?

Why Are Cities Considering Banning Right Turns on Red?

The primary concern behind the potential ban on right turns on red is safety. As urban areas become more densely populated and the number of pedestrians and cyclists increases, cities are striving to reduce the risks of accidents. Right turns on red, while convenient for drivers, can be particularly hazardous when drivers fail to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks or cyclists on nearby bike lanes.

Some of the specific safety concerns include:

• Pedestrian Safety: Pedestrian accidents, especially those involving right turns on red, have risen in many cities. Drivers who are focused on making a turn and checking for other vehicles may overlook pedestrians attempting to cross the street.
• Cyclist Safety: In cities with dedicated bike lanes, cyclists can be at risk when drivers make right turns without properly yielding. A driver turning right on red may not notice a cyclist coming from behind or to the side, resulting in a collision.
• Distracted Driving: Some drivers fail to stop fully before making a right turn on red, increasing the risk of accidents. Distracted driving and a lack of focus can exacerbate this issue.

Cities That Are Considering Banning Right Turns on Red

As the pressure to create safer streets grows, several major U.S. cities are considering banning right turns on red in specific areas or citywide. Some of the cities already moving forward with these restrictions include:

1. New York City

New York City, one of the largest urban centers in the U.S., has long had regulations prohibiting right turns on red in certain areas, especially in Manhattan. With the city’s high pedestrian traffic and an increasing focus on safety for vulnerable road users, discussions have emerged about expanding these restrictions citywide. In areas with high foot traffic, like Times Square and busy intersections, a ban on right turns on red would ensure that pedestrians can cross streets without worrying about vehicles turning without stopping.

Additionally, Mayor Eric Adams has expressed a commitment to reducing traffic-related fatalities and injuries, making pedestrian safety a top priority for the city’s transportation agenda.

2. San Francisco

San Francisco, another city known for its bustling streets and heavy pedestrian presence, is evaluating whether to expand its current right-turn-on-red restrictions. While right turns on red are already prohibited in some areas, city officials are considering banning the practice citywide. The decision is partly driven by the increasing number of pedestrian and cyclist accidents in the city, as well as a broader movement to promote sustainable transportation options like walking and biking.

City planners are also considering measures such as more dedicated bike lanes and enhanced pedestrian signals to improve road safety.

3. Seattle

Seattle, which has prioritized sustainability and pedestrian safety in recent years, has also begun reevaluating the right-turn-on-red rule. With a growing focus on making the city more walkable and bike-friendly, some officials believe that banning right turns on red could improve traffic safety. Seattle’s efforts to reduce the number of car-related injuries and deaths have led to discussions about the need for stricter rules for drivers.

4. Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. is considering banning right turns on red at more intersections, particularly near popular tourist destinations and areas with heavy pedestrian traffic. As the city moves toward “Vision Zero,” an initiative aimed at eliminating all traffic-related fatalities, restricting right turns on red could play a crucial role in reducing pedestrian deaths and injuries.

D.C. already prohibits right turns on red in some areas, but expanding the restriction could help the city meet its ambitious safety goals.

5. Los Angeles

While Los Angeles has not yet implemented a full ban on right turns on red, city officials are looking into the potential benefits of restricting the practice in certain areas, especially around busy intersections and areas with high foot traffic. With rising concerns over pedestrian fatalities and the city’s struggle with traffic congestion, the move could signal a shift toward prioritizing safety over convenience.

Potential Impact on Drivers and Pedestrians

If right turns on red become banned in major U.S. cities, it could have several consequences for both drivers and pedestrians:

For Drivers:

• Increased Traffic Flow Times: Drivers will have to wait for the light to turn green before making a right turn, potentially increasing wait times at intersections. This could lead to more congestion, especially in areas with already heavy traffic.
• Driver Frustration: Some drivers may be frustrated by the inability to make right turns on red, particularly during times when traffic is light, and the road is clear.
• Behavioral Adjustments: Drivers will need to adjust to new driving patterns and become more patient at intersections where right turns on red are no longer allowed.

For Pedestrians:

• Enhanced Safety: Pedestrians will likely experience improved safety as they cross streets without worrying about vehicles turning into their path.
• Better Walkability: A reduction in right-turn-on-red incidents could contribute to making cities more walkable, encouraging more people to walk instead of drive.

Conclusion

As cities like New York, San Francisco, Seattle, Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles continue to evaluate the safety implications of right turns on red, the trend toward banning or restricting the practice is becoming more evident. While these changes may inconvenience some drivers, they represent a growing commitment to protecting pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users.

For more information on urban transportation and safety initiatives, visit Transportation for America.

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