As of 2025, Alaska maintains its position as a right-on-red state, allowing drivers to turn right at red traffic signals after coming to a complete stop, unless otherwise indicated by signage. However, there has been significant discussion regarding potential changes to this rule in specific areas, particularly in downtown Anchorage.
Current Right Turn on Red Regulations
In Alaska, the law permits vehicles facing a steady circular red signal to turn right or to turn left from a one-way street onto another one-way street, provided there are no signs prohibiting such turns.
This regulation aligns with the general practice across most states in the U.S., where right turns on red have been allowed since the 1980s, following federal initiatives aimed at improving traffic flow and fuel efficiency.
Proposed Changes in Anchorage
Recently, the Anchorage Assembly considered an ordinance that would ban right turns on red lights in parts of downtown Anchorage, specifically within the area between Third and Ninth Avenues and Gambell and L Streets.
This proposal was introduced by Assemblyman Daniel Volland, who cited pedestrian safety as a primary concern. Volland noted that many motorists tend to focus on oncoming traffic from their left when making a right turn, potentially overlooking pedestrians approaching from the right.
The proposal reflects a growing trend among cities across the U.S. aiming to enhance pedestrian safety. For instance, Washington D.C. is set to implement a similar ban effective in 2025. Volland emphasized that increasing foot traffic in downtown could also benefit local businesses by creating a more vibrant urban environment.
Safety Concerns and Statistics
The motivation behind the proposed ban stems from alarming statistics regarding pedestrian safety in Anchorage. The city reported 109 vehicle-pedestrian crashes in 2022, with a notable number occurring downtown.
Volland pointed out that Anchorage’s pedestrian collision rates are typically about double the national average.However, some assembly members expressed skepticism about the necessity of such a ban.
For example, Assembly Chair Chris Constant noted that there had been no recorded incidents of pedestrians being struck by vehicles turning right on red in downtown over the past 30 years. This perspective suggests that the proposed ordinance might be addressing an issue that is not currently prevalent.
Recent Developments
As of January 2025, the ordinance banning right turns on red has not been enacted; discussions surrounding it continue within the Anchorage Assembly. The assembly had previously rejected a similar measure in May 2024, indicating ongoing debate about balancing traffic regulations with pedestrian safety concerns.
Conclusion
While Alaska remains a right-on-red state as of 2025, the potential for localized changes in Anchorage reflects broader discussions about urban safety and traffic management. The outcome of these discussions will likely influence how traffic laws evolve in response to community needs and safety considerations moving forward.
Sources
- https://mustreadalaska.com/assembly-made-jaywalking-legal-in-october-and-now-may-make-right-on-red-in-downtown-anchorage-illegal/
- https://www.adn.com/alaska-news/anchorage/2024/02/12/anchorage-assembly-proposal-would-ban-right-on-red-turns-in-much-of-downtown/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turn_on_red
- https://www.adn.com/alaska-news/anchorage/2024/05/22/anchorage-assembly-rejects-a-right-on-red-ban-in-downtown/
- https://internationaldriversassociation.com/ro/blog/right-turn-red-laws-usa/
