No Right Turn on Red

Purpose

Reduces conflicts between turning vehicles and other vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists at signalized intersections.

Description

Signs that prohibit vehicles from making a permitted right turn after coming to a complete stop during a conflicting walk or bike signal phase (right turn on red). The MUTCD governs where signs may be appropriately installed.

Safety Benefits

Reduces conflicts between vehicles where sight distance may be restricted.
Reduces the number of potential pedestrian/bicyclist conflicts and turn-related conflicts at the intersection.
Prioritizes pedestrian and bicyclist safety and convenience at intersections.
Studies in Arlington showed that 24% of right-turning motorists turned right on red before the installation of no turn on red signs compared to 11% of motorists after the installation of no turn on red signs.

Street Types and Context

Applicable Street Types

All street types where a traffic signal is present.

Other Location Guidance

Intersections, especially important at:

Intersections with high volumes of pedestrians and bicyclists.
Intersections with restricted sight distance.
Intersections with a history of turn related crashes.

Primary User Groups

Key Implementation Considerations

Must meet MUTCD criteria to be installed.
Intersection impacts such as vehicle operations should be studied.
Must consider the potential to add new vehicle/pedestrian conflicts during the vehicular green/concurrent walk signal phases.

Expected Crash Reduction

A crash reduction estimate is not available for this tool. Arlington County has seen a safety benefit in areas with high pedestrian volumes.

Cost