Right turns on red lights are a common traffic maneuver across the United States, and Alaska is no exception. However, recent developments and ongoing discussions have brought renewed attention to this rule, especially in certain urban areas. Here’s what drivers need to know about the right turn on red rule in Alaska for 2025.
The Basics: Right Turn on Red in Alaska
General Rule
Alaska law allows drivers to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop, provided there are no signs or signals prohibiting the turn and as long as it is safe to do so. This rule applies to intersections where a steady circular red signal is displayed. Drivers must yield to pedestrians and oncoming traffic before proceeding.
Red Arrow Signals
If a red arrow is displayed, drivers are not permitted to turn in the direction of the arrow unless a specific sign or signal indicates otherwise. A steady red arrow means you must stop and remain stopped until a green signal appears.
Recent and Proposed Changes
Anchorage Downtown Proposal
In 2024, the Anchorage Assembly considered a proposal to ban right turns on red in much of downtown Anchorage—specifically in the area between 3rd and 9th Avenues and Gambell and L Streets, known as the Central Business Traffic District. The primary motivation for this proposal is pedestrian safety, as the area sees high foot traffic and frequent pedestrian crossings.
If passed, this ordinance would take effect on October 1, 2024, and would make right turns on red illegal within the designated downtown zone, regardless of signage. As of now, this is a proposal and not yet law, but it highlights a trend toward increased regulation in high-pedestrian areas.
Left Turn on Red
For reference, Alaska allows left turns on red from a one-way street onto another one-way street, after coming to a complete stop and yielding to pedestrians and oncoming traffic. This rule is not affected by the proposed downtown Anchorage changes.
Key Points for Drivers
- Right Turn on Red: Permitted statewide unless a sign or signal prohibits it.
- Red Arrow: No right turn allowed unless otherwise indicated.
- Anchorage Downtown: Watch for possible new restrictions in the Central Business Traffic District, pending Assembly approval.
- Left Turn on Red: Allowed from one-way to one-way street after stopping and yielding.
Summary Table
| Location/Scenario | Right Turn on Red Allowed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Most Alaska intersections | Yes | Unless prohibited by sign or signal |
| Red arrow at intersection | No | Unless a sign permits it |
| Anchorage downtown (proposed) | No | If ordinance passes, effective Oct. 2024 |
| Left turn on red (one-way) | Yes | After stop and yield |
The right turn on red rule remains in effect throughout Alaska in 2025, but drivers should be aware of local changes, especially in downtown Anchorage where new restrictions may be implemented to enhance pedestrian safety. Always obey posted signs and signals, and yield to pedestrians and oncoming traffic when making a turn on red.
Sources:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turn_on_red
- https://dot.alaska.gov/stwddes/dcstraffic/assets/pdf/atm/current/part4_highwaysigns.pdf
- https://www.akleg.gov/basis/aac.asp?title=13
- https://public.courts.alaska.gov/web/forms/docs/pub-131.pdf