As of 2025, Massachusetts continues to allow right turns on red lights at most intersections, but with some important exceptions and recent changes to be aware of:
General Right Turn on Red Rule
In Massachusetts, drivers are generally permitted to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop, yielding to pedestrians and other traffic proceeding as directed by the signal. This rule also applies to left turns from a one-way street onto another one-way street.
Exceptions and Restrictions
- Cities, towns, and the Department of Highways have the authority to prohibit turns on red at specific intersections. When such prohibitions are in place, signs must be posted to notify drivers.
- Right turns on red are prohibited when there is a sign explicitly stating “No Turn on Red” at the intersection.
- Right turns on red arrows are legal in Massachusetts, unless there is a sign prohibiting the turn. This applies even when facing a steady red arrow signal.
Recent Changes and Local Variations
- As of May 9, 2024, the city of Cambridge has implemented a citywide ban on right turns on red at all intersections. This change is part of Cambridge’s “Vision Zero” plan to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists.
- The Cambridge ban was motivated by safety concerns, particularly for pedestrians and cyclists. City officials noted that drivers focusing on finding gaps in traffic often fail to check for pedestrians or bikes when making right turns on red.
- While Cambridge is not increasing enforcement specifically for this new rule, the police will enforce violations when observed or when receiving community feedback.
Safety Considerations
Recent studies, including one by the Mineta Transportation Institute, have highlighted safety concerns associated with right turns on red. The study found that many drivers do not come to a complete stop before turning, creating hazards for pedestrians and cyclists. As a result, some cities are considering following Cambridge’s lead in restricting or prohibiting right turns on red.
Best Practices for Drivers
- Always come to a complete stop before making a right turn on red.
- Look for and obey any signs prohibiting turns on red.
- Yield to pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles with the right of way.
- Be especially cautious near transit stops and in areas with heavy pedestrian traffic.
As traffic laws can vary by locality and may change over time, it’s important for drivers to stay informed about local regulations and to always prioritize safety when making turns at intersections.
Sources:
- https://www.nbcboston.com/news/local/drivers-no-longer-have-the-right-to-turn-right-on-red-in-cambridge/3363762/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turn_on_red
- https://www.smartcitiesdive.com/news/right-turns-on-red-light-put-pedestrians-at-risk-mineta-study/738332/
- https://malegislature.gov/laws/generallaws/parti/titlexiv/chapter89/section8
- https://swartzlaw.com/massachusetts-right-of-way-laws-explained/