Recent research has prompted a reevaluation of right turns on red light policies in California as pedestrian and cyclist safety gains focus. Despite their origin in the 1970s as an energy-saving measure, data shows these turns have resulted in thousands of collisions and fatalities. Between 2011 and 2022 in California alone, over 39,000 collisions and 217 fatalities involved pedestrians, while studies suggest that these turns contribute little to emissions reductions. This has led cities like Washington, D.C. and New York to ban the practice to enhance safety.
On March 24, San Jose recorded its seventh traffic death - and fifth pedestrian death - of 2025.
New research shows right-turn collisions at signalized intersections were responsible for more than 39,000 collisions and 217 fatalities involving pedestrians, bicyclists and drivers between 2011 and 2022 in California.
Analysis of this data and other existing research shows right turn on red maneuvers are generally unsafe for pedestrians, bicyclists and drivers.
The research also indicates right turn on red movements are 'only marginally useful in lowering emissions and only in certain contexts.'
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