How a small rule change reshaped city driving, and why it might be time to rethink it.
A Short History of “Right Turn on Red”
The right turn on red rule spread across North America during the 1970s energy crisis, when governments hoped it would save fuel by reducing idling. The United States adopted it under the 1975 Energy Policy and Conservation Act, and Canadian provinces soon followed.
Later research showed the savings were tiny, often less than one percent, while collisions with pedestrians and cyclists increased.
Drivers looking for gaps in traffic often missed people crossing ahead. A rule meant to save energy ended up trading safety for a few seconds of convenience.
Today, cities like Montreal and New York still prohibit right turns on red, while others including Toronto, Vancouver, and Seattle are expanding “No Right on Red” zones to protect people walking and biking downtown.
Why “NO RIGHT ON RED” Makes Sense – Ben Durham
Local filmmaker Ben Durham, right here in London, takes a clear look at how this rule affects people on foot and on bikes. His video shows how banning right turns on red can make intersections calmer, easier to predict, and ultimately safer for everyone.
Why Right Turn on Red Can Be Unsafe for Pedestrians
This piece looks at crash data across North America and reveals how even cautious drivers can misjudge crosswalks or cyclists approaching from the right. It’s not about bad driving, but about a system that asks drivers to look in two directions at once.
The “Right Turn of Death”?
A dramatic and data-driven look at what happens when a rule meant for suburban highways is applied to dense city streets. The video highlights how the culture of “keep moving” can override safety and how small changes in policy could make an outsized difference.
What This Means for London
As cycling in London grows we work with customers and local partners to make more trips by e-bike more viable. But these efforts depend on intersections that feel safe. Predictability encourages participation, both for seasoned riders and people trying a bike for the first time.
A safer city and downtown starts with small, evidence-based choices. If removing right turns on red means fewer near-misses and smoother crossings, it’s worth the wait of a few seconds on a single traffic light.
Join the Conversation
We’d love to hear from you. What intersections in London feel most dangerous for right turns on red? Are there places where you’d rather wait for the green light? Share your thoughts on Instagram or drop by the Café. Together, we can help make London’s streets more human-friendly, one intersection at a time.