As of March 2025, Alaska’s traffic rules regarding right turns on red lights have undergone significant changes, particularly in Anchorage. Here’s an overview of the current situation:
Statewide Rule
In Alaska, the general rule allowing right turns on red lights after a complete stop remains in effect for most of the state. This aligns with the practice in all 50 states, where right turns on red have been legal since 1980 unless posted otherwise.
Anchorage Exception
However, a notable change has been implemented in Anchorage’s downtown area:
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In October 2023, the Anchorage Assembly legalized jaywalking, giving pedestrians more freedom to cross streets at their discretion.
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Following this change, a new ordinance was proposed in early 2024 to ban right turns on red lights in downtown Anchorage.
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The ban applies to the area between 3rd and 9th Avenues and Gambell and L Streets, known as the Central Business Traffic District.
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This change was scheduled to take effect on October 1, 2024.
Rationale for the Change
The primary reasons for implementing this ban in downtown Anchorage include:
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Safety concerns: The change aims to protect pedestrians, as drivers often focus on oncoming traffic from the left and may overlook pedestrians on their right.
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Encouraging foot traffic: The ban is part of efforts to create a more pedestrian-friendly downtown environment, promoting local businesses and community engagement.
Implementation and Enforcement
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Specific signage is likely in place to indicate where right turns on red are prohibited in the affected downtown area.
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Drivers should be extra cautious and observant of new traffic signs when navigating downtown Anchorage.
Exceptions and Special Cases
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The ban in Anchorage does not affect left turns on red, which remain legal in certain situations in Alaska.
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Special vehicle categories, such as those carrying hazardous materials and school buses, are generally not allowed to turn on red under any circumstances.
It’s important for drivers to stay informed about local traffic laws, especially when traveling to different cities within Alaska, as rules may vary. Always obey posted signs and be prepared for potential changes in traffic regulations.
Source
1.https://mustreadalaska.com/assembly-made-jaywalking-legal-in-october-and-now-may-make-right-on-red-in-downtown-anchorage-illegal/
2. https://alaskapublic.org/news/2024-02-07/anchorage-assembly-proposal-would-ban-right-on-red-turns-in-much-of-downtown
3.https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turn_on_red
4. https://dot.alaska.gov/stwddes/dcstraffic/assets/pdf/atm/current/part4_highwaysigns.pdf
