Effective January 1, 2024, it will be prohibited to make a right turn on a red light unless a sign is posted permitting it. Please refer to the article below for more information. This is a reminder for those who may not have been aware of this recent change in the law. For a significant period, we have enjoyed the freedom to exercise caution and turn right on red lights where it was safe to do so. Unfortunately, due to the increased number of accidents caused by individuals taking unnecessary risks, it has become necessary for this privilege to be revoked for everyone's safety.
Arizona Traffic Rule Update: Navigating the Right Turn on Red in 2024
January 26, 2024 by Megaphone Staff
Arizona’s traffic laws, like those in many other states, are constantly evolving to keep up with changes in population, infrastructure, and safety concerns. One recent update that has generated some confusion among drivers is the change to the right-turn-on-red (RTOR) rule. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of the new RTOR rule in Arizona, including its history, the specific changes that have been made, and important safety considerations for drivers.
History of the Right-Turn-on-Red Rule in Arizona
This Article Includes
The RTOR rule in Arizona has a long and complex history. Prior to 1987, drivers were generally prohibited from making right turns on red lights throughout the state. However, in 1987, the Arizona legislature passed a law that allowed RTORs at intersections unless specifically prohibited by signage. This law was intended to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion.
In the years that followed, the use of RTORs became increasingly common in Arizona. However, there were also concerns about the safety of RTORs, particularly for pedestrians and cyclists. In 2019, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) conducted a study that found that intersections with RTORs had a higher rate of pedestrian and cyclist crashes than intersections without RTORs.
Changes to the RTOR Rule in 2024
In response to the safety concerns identified in the 2019 study, the Arizona legislature passed a new law in 2023 that made changes to the RTOR rule. The new law, which went into effect on January 1, 2024, prohibits RTORs at all intersections unless a sign specifically authorizes them.
There are a few exceptions to the new RTOR rule. For example, RTORs are still allowed at intersections with flashing yellow arrows. Additionally, the new law does not apply to right turns onto one-way streets.
Navigating the New RTOR Rule
The change to the RTOR rule in Arizona may take some time for drivers to get used to. Here are some tips for navigating the new rule:
Be aware of the new law. Drivers should make sure they are familiar with the new RTOR rule before they get behind the wheel.
Pay attention to signs. Drivers should always obey the posted signs at intersections. If a sign does not specifically authorize a RTOR, then it is prohibited.
Come to a complete stop. Even if a RTOR is allowed, drivers must still come to a complete stop before turning right.
Yield to pedestrians and cyclists. Drivers must always yield to pedestrians and cyclists, even if they have the right of way.
Use caution. Drivers should always use caution when making any turn, even if it is a RTOR.
Safety Considerations
The new RTOR rule is intended to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists. However, it is important for all drivers to be aware of the potential dangers of RTORs. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
Be aware of your surroundings. Drivers should always be aware of their surroundings, including pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles.
Do not make risky turns. Drivers should not make RTORs if they are not sure it is safe to do so.
Use your turn signal. Drivers should always use their turn signal when making any turn.
Be patient. Drivers should be patient and avoid making hasty decisions when making turns.
Conclusion
The change to the RTOR rule in Arizona is a significant one. Drivers need to be aware of the new law and take steps to adjust their driving habits accordingly. By following the safety tips outlined in this article, drivers can help to make Arizona’s roads safer for everyone.
This is a situation that arises when a small group exploits a beneficial opportunity that was meant for everyone, resulting in its revocation. It is akin to the dynamics of politics, where a few individuals voice their objections, leading to changes in the rules. Similarly, in this scenario, a few individuals wanted to be ahead of others or relied on the assumption that others would yield or halt for their convenience. It is crucial for individuals to bear in mind that driving is a privilege and not an inherent right.
In conclusion, I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to all the veterans, police, firefighters, first responders, and healthcare workers for their exceptional service and remarkable sacrifices. Their contributions have been instrumental in safeguarding the well-being and stability of our nation.
God Bless & Good health.
G
This article is patently false and created by a click farm using a high school newspaper's lapsed URL. This is ARS on this subject.
https://www.azleg.gov/ars/28/00645.htm
(b) The driver of a vehicle that is stopped in obedience to a red signal and as close as practicable at the entrance to the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection, or if there is no crosswalk, then at the entrance to the intersection, may make a right turn but shall yield the right-of-way to pedestrians and other traffic proceeding as directed by the signal. A right turn may be prohibited against a red signal at any intersection if a sign prohibiting the turn is erected at the intersection.
Your article, is wrong. I live in Arizona, I teach driving rules. We are allowed to make right turns on red!
Here is quoted law:
"(b) The driver of a vehicle that is stopped in obedience to a red signal and as close as practicable at the entrance to the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection, or if there is no crosswalk, then at the entrance to the intersection, may make a right turn but shall yield the right-of-way to pedestrians and other traffic proceeding as directed by the signal. A right turn may be prohibited against a red signal at any intersection if a sign prohibiting the turn is erected at the intersection."
Found in Arizona Revised Statutes 28-645, laws on traffic lighted intersections.
https://www.azleg.gov/viewdocument/?docName=https://www.azleg.gov/ars/28/00645.htm