Washington State is considering a significant change to its traffic laws regarding right turns at red lights, a move aimed at improving pedestrian and cyclist safety, especially near sensitive areas. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what’s proposed, why it matters, and how it could affect drivers.
What Is the Proposed Change?
A bill introduced in the Washington State Legislature would prohibit drivers from making right turns on red lights within 1,000 feet of specific facilities. These include:
- Elementary and secondary schools
- Childcare centers
- Public parks and playgrounds
- Recreation centers and facilities
- Libraries
- Public transit centers
- Hospitals
- Senior centers
- Any other facility with high pedestrian traffic
This would mark a major shift, as for decades, Washington drivers have been allowed to turn right on red after coming to a complete stop and ensuring the intersection is clear of oncoming traffic, including pedestrians and cyclists.
Why Is the Change Being Considered?
The push for the new rule comes amid rising concerns over pedestrian and cyclist safety. Washington has seen a troubling increase in traffic fatalities, reaching a three-decade high in 2022 with 745 people killed in crashes.
Data from the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) shows that from 2017 to 2021, there were nearly 5,000 crashes involving pedestrians or bicyclists at intersections with traffic signals, with about 1,400 involving a driver turning right—though not all were on red lights.
Legislators and safety advocates argue that right turns on red often put pedestrians and cyclists at risk. Drivers tend to focus on traffic from the left, sometimes overlooking people in crosswalks to their right. Personal stories, like that of Stefanie Randolph who was struck by a car turning right on red, highlight the dangers and lasting impacts of such incidents.
How Would the Rule Work?
If passed, the law would:
- Ban right turns on red within 1,000 feet of the listed facilities statewide.
- Require clear signage at affected intersections so drivers know where the ban applies.
- Launch a statewide public awareness campaign, led by the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, to educate drivers about the new rule for at least two years after implementation.
Local governments would have the authority to decide if additional intersections need to be included, but the ban would automatically apply near the specified high-traffic facilities.
When Would the Rule Take Effect?
The proposed legislation, if enacted, would go into effect on July 1, 2024. However, as of now, the bill is still in committee and has not yet been scheduled for a final vote.
What Are the Arguments For and Against?
Supporters say:
- The rule will reduce collisions and close calls between vehicles and vulnerable road users.
- It targets areas with high pedestrian activity, such as schools and parks, where the risk is greatest.
- It’s a necessary update to outdated traffic practices that prioritize vehicle flow over safety.
Critics argue:
- The change could increase traffic congestion and driver frustration, especially in urban areas.
- Drivers are accustomed to the convenience of right turns on red, and the adjustment may be difficult.
- Some worry about inconsistent enforcement and the need for clear signage to avoid confusion.
What Should Drivers Do Now?
- Stay informed: The bill is still under consideration, so no changes are in effect yet.
- Watch for updates from the Washington State Department of Transportation and local news.
- If the law passes, pay close attention to new signage, especially near schools, parks, and hospitals.
- Always stop completely and check for pedestrians and cyclists before turning right on red, as current law requires.
Key Points
| Aspect | Current Law | Proposed Change (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Right turn on red | Allowed after full stop | Banned within 1,000 ft of listed facilities |
| Target areas | All intersections | Schools, parks, hospitals, etc. |
| Signage | Only at select intersections | Required at all affected intersections |
| Public education | None specific | Statewide campaign for 2 years |
| Status | In effect | In committee (not yet law) |
Washington’s possible new rule on right turns at red lights represents a major shift in traffic safety policy, with the goal of protecting pedestrians and cyclists in the state’s most vulnerable areas. Drivers should stay alert for further developments and be prepared to adapt if the law passes.
Sources:
- https://www.theurbanist.org/2023/05/04/no-right-turn-on-red-is-now-the-default-in-seattle/
- https://www.plotnicklaw.com/posts/what-washington-dc-partial-right-on-red-ban-means-for-pedestrians-cyclists
- https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/transportation/right-turns-on-red-now-banned-at-all-dc-intersections-but-enforcement-varies/3803868/
- https://www.tthlaw.com/d-c-passes-bill-banning-right-turns-at-red-lights-and-implements-the-idaho-stop-for-cyclists/
- https://www.washingtonian.com/2024/12/31/dc-right-turn-on-red-ban-2025/
