Have you ever been startled by a car turning right on a red light as you crossed the street? Nearly caused a collision yourself while making such a turn? You’re not alone. Right turns on red lights are a common practice across the United States, but they also raise safety concerns, especially for pedestrians and cyclists. In Colorado, the legality and safety of right turns on red are a topic of ongoing debate, with a recent proposal in Denver to ban them entirely. Let’s delve into the current Colorado right-turn-on-red rule, explore safety considerations, and examine the potential changes on the horizon.
For decades, the right to turn right on a red light after coming to a complete stop has been a widely accepted practice in most U.S. states. However, there’s ongoing debate about the safety implications, particularly for pedestrians and cyclists who might be crossing the street with a false sense of security when the light is red.
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In Colorado, drivers are permitted to turn right on a red light under specific conditions outlined in the Colorado Revised Statute 42-4-604(c)(1). This law allows a right turn on red only after coming to a complete stop and yielding the right-of-way to any pedestrians crossing the street and all oncoming traffic, including those turning left or continuing straight. It’s important to remember that drivers are not obligated to turn on red, even if the coast seems clear. They can choose to wait for the light to turn green to ensure a safe turn.
However, Denver is considering a significant change. A recent proposal by a transition committee for Mayor Mike Johnston suggests a complete ban on right turns on red lights throughout the city. This proposal is driven by safety concerns, particularly for pedestrians and cyclists who are more vulnerable to collisions at intersections. Proponents of the ban argue that it aligns with Denver’s Vision Zero plan, which aims to eliminate traffic deaths and serious injuries within the city.
Now, let’s navigate the specifics of making a safe right turn on red in Colorado according to the current law. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Come to a Complete Stop: This is crucial. Don’t inch forward or perform a rolling stop. Come to a full stop behind the marked stop line, if present, or at the intersection line if there’s no stop line.
- Check Your Surroundings: Before proceeding, use your mirrors and blind spots to ensure there’s no oncoming traffic, including motorcycles and bicycles that might be harder to see.
- Yield to Pedestrians: Pay close attention to the crosswalk. Pedestrians have the right-of-way, so make sure they have completely cleared the intersection before initiating your turn.
- Signal Your Intent: Activate your right turn signal well in advance (at least 100 feet before the intersection) to alert other drivers of your intention to turn.
- Proceed with Caution: Only proceed with your turn when the way is entirely clear and there’s no risk of collision with oncoming traffic or pedestrians entering the crosswalk.
It’s important to remember that there are situations where a right turn on red is not allowed in Colorado, even if the light is red:
- Presence of a “No Turn on Red” Sign: These signs are typically placed at intersections where visibility is poor or where the risk of accidents is higher. Always obey these signs.
- Double Red Light: A double red light signifies a more restrictive intersection. Turning on red is strictly prohibited in these cases.
- Unprotected Left-Turn Lane for Oncoming Traffic: If there’s a dedicated left-turn lane for oncoming traffic without a traffic light, you cannot turn right on red.
- Poor Visibility or Adverse Weather Conditions: During heavy rain, snow, fog, or any situation that limits visibility, a right turn on red becomes exceptionally dangerous. It’s best to wait for the light to turn green.
While right turns on red can improve traffic flow, especially during low-traffic hours, safety concerns cannot be ignored. The increased risk of collisions with pedestrians and cyclists, especially in high-traffic areas, is a significant downside. Driver inattention and misjudgment of gaps in traffic can also lead to accidents. It’s crucial for drivers to prioritize safety and exercise caution when considering a right turn on red.
However, the potential benefits of right turns on red shouldn’t be entirely dismissed. They can indeed help with traffic flow, particularly during off-peak hours. Reduced congestion and shorter wait times at intersections can be positive outcomes, especially in busy cities.
Denver’s proposed ban on right turns on red has sparked a heated debate. Proponents argue that it will significantly improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists, aligning with the city’s Vision Zero plan. Opponents worry about increased traffic congestion and wait times at intersections. They argue that the current law, if enforced properly and coupled with better driver education on safe right-turn procedures, can be sufficient to ensure safety.
Public opinion on the proposed ban seems divided. Some residents, particularly cyclists and pedestrians, welcome the idea of increased safety at intersections. Others, especially drivers, express concerns about the potential inconvenience and longer commutes. The Denver City Council is currently reviewing the proposal and soliciting public feedback before making a final decision.
Looking ahead, the debate surrounding right turns on red goes beyond Denver. Cities across the country are re-evaluating their traffic laws in light of rising pedestrian and cyclist fatalities. Studies are being conducted to analyze the effectiveness of right turns on red in terms of traffic flow and safety. The collected data might influence future changes in regulations across various states.
Regardless of the specific laws in your state, here are some recommendations to prioritize safety when making a right turn on red:
- Always Come to a Complete Stop: This cannot be emphasized enough. Disregard any urge to creep forward or perform a rolling stop.
- Maintain Focus and Awareness: Avoid distractions like looking at your phone or engaging in conversations with passengers. Pay close attention to the road, pedestrians, and other vehicles.
- Prioritize Caution Over Convenience: Don’t rush your turn, especially in busy intersections. If there’s any uncertainty about the safety of proceeding, opt to wait for the light to turn green.
- Double-Check Blind Spots: Motorcycles and bicycles can be easily missed in blind spots. Use your mirrors and perform a visual check before proceeding.
By following these safe driving practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents, regardless of whether your state allows right turns on red.
