Portland Considers Restrictions on Right Turns on Red Lights
Portland is considering new regulations that could restrict drivers from making right turns on red lights at certain intersections.
Portland, OR, August 1, 2026 —
PORTLAND, OR – City officials in Portland are exploring new traffic regulations that could limit or prohibit drivers from making right turns on red lights at specific intersections. The proposed changes aim to enhance pedestrian and cyclist safety in areas identified as having higher risks.
The potential new rules would grant the city the authority to designate certain intersections where the existing allowance for right turns on red would be suspended. This measure is part of a broader effort to improve urban mobility and reduce traffic-related incidents involving vulnerable road users.
Details regarding the specific intersections targeted for these restrictions have not yet been finalized. City planners are expected to conduct studies to identify locations with high pedestrian traffic, complex traffic patterns, or a history of collisions. The exact scope and implementation timeline for the proposed regulations remain under consideration.
The concept of restricting right turns on red is not unique to Portland. Other municipalities across the country have implemented similar measures to address safety concerns in busy urban cores. These regulations typically involve posting signs at affected intersections clearly indicating that the turn is prohibited.
Supporters of such measures often point to increased safety for pedestrians and cyclists, who may be more exposed to danger when drivers are making turns while also looking for oncoming traffic. Opponents sometimes raise concerns about potential impacts on traffic flow and driver convenience.
The Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) has not yet released a formal proposal or initiated a public comment period for the potential regulations. Further information is expected to be made available as the city progresses through its review and planning processes.
Story summarized from the original created by Alissa Gary on www.oregonlive.com, see more information here.
