In January 2025, Massachusetts implemented changes to its “Right Turn on Red” policy, particularly in certain cities and towns, to improve road safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists.
City-Specific Changes
- Cambridge: Implemented a citywide ban on right turns on red at all intersections. This policy aims to reduce accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists and is part of Cambridge’s “Vision Zero” plan to eliminate traffic fatalities. The ban applies to both drivers and cyclists.
- Boston: Expanded its restrictions on right turns on red, but has not implemented a citywide ban. The new policy prohibits right turns on red in the following areas:
- Downtown area
- “Main Street Districts”
- “Neighborhood Business Corridors”
- Near schools, senior citizen facilities, parks, recreational areas, playgrounds, libraries, mass transit stations or stops, hospitals, and other significant pedestrian-generating facilities
- Where pedestrian head starts or dedicated pedestrian phases are used
- Where a turn on red crosses a Shared Use Path or a separated bicycle lane
State-Level Regulations
- Massachusetts state law still generally allows right turns on red unless otherwise posted. Drivers may make a right turn at a red light after coming to a full stop and yielding to pedestrians and other traffic, except where prohibited by signs.
Rationale
- Studies have shown that allowing right turns on red increases the likelihood of collisions with pedestrians and cyclists. Similar bans have decreased close calls and vehicles encroaching on sidewalks in other areas. With more people walking and cycling in urban areas, cities are prioritizing the safety of vulnerable road users.
Impact and Enforcement
- Violations can result in fines, typically starting at $35 in Massachusetts. Drivers should watch for “No Turn on Red” signs at intersections.
Other New Traffic Regulations
- Drivers must maintain a minimum distance of four feet when overtaking cyclists, pedestrians, or smaller vehicles. Drivers must pass at a moderate pace and are permitted to cross the road’s yellow centerline cautiously, without exceeding the speed limit. This legislation aims to curb the escalating number of road fatalities. Penalties for non-compliance with new trailer safety requirements are scheduled to commence in 2025.
- The Boston Transportation Department (BTD) is issuing new City of Boston Traffic Rules and Regulations on March 1, 2025.
SOURCES
[1] https://rockinghamcountynews.com/2025/01/massachusetts-traffic-rule-2025-update-understanding-the-right-turn-on-red-rule/
[2] https://www.axios.com/local/boston/2023/01/04/massachusetts-new-traffic-law
[3] https://www.nbcboston.com/news/politics/massachusetts-new-laws-2025/3588858/
[4] https://www.boston.gov/departments/transportation/city-boston-traffic-rules-and-regulations
