The “Right Turn on Red” (RTOR) rule in Massachusetts has been a longstanding feature of the state’s traffic laws, but recent updates and local changes have brought renewed attention to its application.
While the general principle of RTOR remains legal statewide, municipalities like Cambridge have implemented stricter regulations to prioritize pedestrian and cyclist safety. Here’s a detailed overview of the current legal landscape in 2025.
Statewide Right Turn on Red Rule
Under Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 89, Section 8, drivers are generally allowed to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop, provided they yield to pedestrians and other vehicles proceeding through the intersection.
This rule applies unless a sign explicitly prohibits the maneuver. The RTOR rule was introduced in Massachusetts in 1980 as part of a nationwide effort to conserve fuel during the energy crisis of the 1970s.
Local Authority Over RTOR
Massachusetts law allows cities and towns to restrict RTOR at specific intersections by erecting “No Turn on Red” signs. These restrictions are typically implemented for safety reasons, such as:
- Pedestrian Safety: Preventing conflicts between turning vehicles and pedestrians crossing the street.
- Traffic Flow: Avoiding congestion caused by vehicles turning onto roads with limited visibility or high traffic volumes.
- Sight Lines: Ensuring drivers have adequate visibility of oncoming traffic before making a turn.
Recent Changes in Cambridge
In May 2024, Cambridge became the first city in Massachusetts to ban RTOR at all intersections. This decision was part of the city’s “Vision Zero” initiative aimed at eliminating traffic fatalities and serious injuries. The city installed over 225 “No Turn on Red” signs to ensure compliance at every intersection.
Cambridge officials cited safety concerns for pedestrians and cyclists as the primary motivation for this change, noting that RTOR often leads drivers to focus solely on vehicular traffic while neglecting crosswalks.
Boston’s Approach
As of March 2025, Boston has not implemented a citywide ban on RTOR but continues to enforce restrictions at specific intersections where safety concerns are identified. The city’s updated traffic regulations emphasize compliance with posted signs prohibiting RTOR. Drivers are advised to remain vigilant for these signs, particularly in areas with heavy pedestrian activity.
Penalties for Violating RTOR Rules
Drivers who violate RTOR restrictions face fines starting at $35. In cases where violations result in accidents or endanger pedestrians, additional penalties may apply. Law enforcement agencies prioritize education over enforcement but will issue citations when necessary.
Safety Considerations and Public Debate
The debate over RTOR reflects broader concerns about balancing driver convenience with pedestrian and cyclist safety:
- Proponents argue that banning RTOR improves safety by reducing potential conflicts at intersections.
- Critics contend that such bans may increase traffic congestion and delay drivers unnecessarily.
Massachusetts continues to permit right turns on red lights statewide unless prohibited by signage. However, cities like Cambridge have taken significant steps to restrict or eliminate RTOR as part of broader safety initiatives.
Drivers should remain aware of local regulations and always prioritize pedestrian safety when making turns at red lights. By staying informed and adhering to posted signs, motorists can comply with evolving traffic rules while contributing to safer roadways for all users.
SOURCES:-
[1] https://www.nbcboston.com/news/local/drivers-no-longer-have-the-right-to-turn-right-on-red-in-cambridge/3363762/
[2] https://www.boston.gov/sites/default/files/file/2025/01/City%20of%20Boston%20Traffic%20Rules%20and%20Regulations%203.1.2025.pdf
[3] https://www.wgbh.org/news/local/2019-03-13/who-decides-when-drivers-can-and-cant-turn-right-on-red
[4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turn_on_red
[5] https://malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleXIV/Chapter89/Section8
