California has not implemented any statewide changes to the right turn on red rule. However, there are some important traffic law updates and proposed changes that drivers should be aware of:
Right Turn on Red
The general rule for right turns on red in California remains unchanged:
- You can turn right at a red light if:
- There is no “NO TURN ON RED” sign posted
- You come to a complete stop first
- You yield to pedestrians, bicyclists, and vehicles with the right of way
However, some cities are considering changes to this rule:
San Francisco Proposal
San Francisco officials have called for a citywide ban on right turns on red. In August 2024, the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) Board of Directors requested agency officials to implement a policy prohibiting right turns on red throughout the entire city. This proposal aims to improve pedestrian safety and walkability.
West Hollywood Consideration
West Hollywood is exploring a plan to ban right-hand turns at red lights at the city’s busiest intersections. City officials expect to receive a report on this measure by 2025.
New “Daylighting” Law
While not directly related to right turns on red, a new law affecting parking near intersections will take effect in 2025:
- Starting January 1, 2025, California’s “daylighting law” (AB413) prohibits parking within 20 feet of any marked or unmarked crosswalk.
- This applies to all curbs, even if they are not painted red.
- The law aims to improve visibility for drivers and pedestrians at intersections.
- There will be a 60-day grace period from January 1 to March 1, 2025, during which warnings may be issued instead of citations.
Other Traffic Law Updates for 2025
- Street Racing and Sideshows: Stricter penalties for participants and spectators, including vehicle impoundment.
- Vehicle Theft: The “locked door loophole” has been eliminated. Car owners are no longer required to prove their doors were locked to convict someone of burglary.
- Safer State-Owned Roads: SB 960 has been enacted to improve safety on state-owned roads, though specific details were not provided in the search results.
Drivers should stay informed about these changes and any local modifications to traffic rules in their specific areas. Always follow posted signs and signals, and prioritize safety for all road users.
Sources:
- https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2023-10-03/san-francisco-considers-banning-right-hand-turns-on-red-lights
- https://www.planetizen.com/news/2024/08/130961-san-francisco-officials-call-citywide-ban-right-turns-red
- https://www.nbcsandiego.com/news/california/starting-in-2025-you-might-get-ticketed-in-some-spots-even-if-theres-no-red-curb/3707453/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9uoGPisDpm4
- https://www.wccbc.com/red-and-yellow-light-accidents/
