Historical Data Links Right Turn on Red to Increased Accidents!

A new wave of concern is growing around one of America’s long-standing driving practices—the right turn on red. Once considered a convenience and a way to reduce traffic congestion, recent historical data now shows that this practice may be contributing to a higher number of road accidents, especially those involving pedestrians and cyclists.

What Is Right Turn on Red?

The “right turn on red” (RTOR) rule allows drivers to turn right at a red traffic light after coming to a complete stop, as long as there’s no sign prohibiting it and the way is clear. This rule became widespread across the U.S. in the 1970s during the oil crisis, aiming to save fuel and reduce idle time.

However, what was once seen as a smart move for traffic flow is now under scrutiny due to increasing safety concerns.

What the Data Says

Several traffic safety studies, including those from city transportation departments and road safety researchers, have pointed to a link between RTOR and a rise in vehicle-pedestrian and vehicle-cyclist crashes.

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), intersections allowing RTOR show a noticeable uptick in near misses and collisions. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has also indicated that drivers often fail to come to a complete stop or fail to yield to pedestrians, especially during heavy traffic or when they’re in a hurry.

One report found that nearly 20% of pedestrian crashes at intersections involved a vehicle turning right on red. These are particularly dangerous for vulnerable road users like the elderly or visually impaired, who might assume they have the right of way.

Why the Risk Is Rising

There are a few reasons why RTOR is becoming riskier:

• Distracted driving: Many drivers focus more on vehicle traffic than on crossing pedestrians or cyclists.
• Speed and pressure: In busy urban areas, drivers feel pressured to make quick decisions, sometimes ignoring basic safety rules.
• Visibility issues: Cars turning right often have obstructed views of pedestrians or bikes, especially when other vehicles block their line of sight.

Additionally, as cities have become more pedestrian- and bike-friendly, the risk has grown because more people are sharing the same road space.

Cities Taking Action

In response to these findings, several U.S. cities are now rethinking their approach to RTOR. For example:

• Washington, D.C. has implemented restrictions on RTOR in high-traffic areas and near schools.
• San Francisco and Portland have also placed limits on the rule in select areas to improve pedestrian safety.
• New York City has always had tighter restrictions on RTOR, requiring explicit signs for when it’s allowed, rather than allowing it by default.

Urban planners and traffic experts argue that small policy changes like restricting RTOR in busy zones can have a big impact on safety, especially as pedestrian and cycling infrastructure continues to grow.

What Drivers Should Know

While the rule is still in place in most states, drivers are advised to proceed with extreme caution when turning right on red. Here are a few tips to stay safe:

• Always come to a full stop, even if you think the road is clear.
• Double-check for pedestrians and cyclists, especially before proceeding.
• Be aware of visibility obstructions like parked cars or buses.
• If you’re in an unfamiliar city, look for signage—some areas may prohibit RTOR altogether.

Conclusion

Right turns on red may seem harmless, but as new data shows, they could be contributing to a rise in traffic-related injuries and fatalities, particularly for pedestrians and cyclists. With several cities now taking steps to limit or regulate the practice, drivers across the U.S. should stay informed and remain cautious to keep roads safe for everyone.

As urban traffic patterns evolve, even small changes in road rules can make a big difference. RTOR, once a fuel-saving convenience, may now be a habit worth reconsidering.

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