San Francisco is making a big move to improve pedestrian safety and reduce traffic accidents by expanding its “No Turn on Red” (NTOR) law across downtown neighborhoods. This new law bans right turns at red lights at about 200 intersections in busy parts of the city. The update has major implications for motorists and pedestrians alike.
What’s Changing?
Previously, San Francisco only restricted right turns on red at a limited number of intersections. Now, the city has expanded the ban significantly, covering major downtown areas including:
- South of Market (SoMa)
- Union Square
- Chinatown
- North Beach
- Financial District
These neighborhoods make up the city’s “High Injury Network,” meaning they are locations where many severe traffic injuries and fatalities happen. By banning right turns on red here, the city hopes to reduce collisions involving pedestrians and cyclists.
Why This Change?
San Francisco’s Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) launched this expansion as part of its Vision Zero program, which aims to eliminate all traffic deaths and serious injuries. The city’s pilot program, conducted in the Tenderloin neighborhood where the right turn on red was banned at 54 intersections, showed promising results. The number of vehicles blocking pedestrian crosswalks dropped by 70%, proving that limiting right turns on red can help protect vulnerable road users.
Timeline and Implementation
The SFMTA began installing new NTOR signage in April 2024, with plans to complete the full rollout by August 2025. Motorists should expect to see updated signs and new traffic rules at intersections in the affected neighborhoods as the project progresses.
What Drivers Need to Do
Drivers must now obey the posted “No Turn on Red” signs at these intersections and wait for a green light before turning right. Failing to comply could lead to fines or penalties, though enforcement may initially be limited due to resource constraints. The city is actively conducting public awareness campaigns to educate residents about the new rules.
What About Other Areas?
While this expansion covers key downtown zones, pedestrian safety advocates are calling for a citywide ban on right turns at red lights. The SFMTA has said expanding the law citywide would require more resources and careful study of traffic flow before implementation.
How Will This Impact Traffic?
Some drivers worry the new law could increase traffic congestion or cause delays during peak hours. However, safety experts argue that the benefits of fewer accidents and safer streets outweigh these concerns. The pilot results suggest smoother pedestrian flow and fewer dangerous vehicle-pedestrian conflicts.
Stay Informed and Drive Safely
San Francisco’s move is a step toward safer, more walkable city streets. Drivers should stay alert for new signage and adapt to the updated traffic laws to avoid violations and keep everyone safe.
San Francisco’s ban on right turns at red lights at 200 downtown intersections is a major change designed to save lives and improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists. The law is already rolling out, and drivers must follow the new rules to avoid penalties. While some traffic impact is expected, the city remains committed to Vision Zero and safer streets for all.
