In most parts of the U.S., drivers can turn right when the light is red after completely stopping and making sure there’s no risk. This rule, known as ‘’right on red’’, helps traffic to flow better, reduce waiting time on traffic lights, and save fuel.
However, not every city allows this rule. For example, in Staten Island, New York, it is still banned to turn right when the light is red. Now, local officials are considering changing this rule to improve traffic. So, let’s learn more about this ‘’right on red’’ rule.
‘’Right on red’’
Even though the red light normally means ‘’to stop’’, the ‘’right on red’’ rule has several benefits:
- Helps ease traffic: When cars don’t have to wait as long at red lights, traffic can move more smoothly and long lines are less likely to form.
- Saves time and fuel: If it is safe, drivers can turn without waiting for the light to change, which means less waiting and less fuel wasted while the car is stopped.
- Safety comes first: Drivers need to look carefully for pedestrians, cyclists, and other cars. When it is done safely, turning right on red can help traffic move more smoothly.
Staten Island now
Despite the benefits, Staten Island still bans turning right when the light is red while almost all the rest of the state of New York already allows it. Local officials believe this prohibition makes drivers wait unnecessarily at empty intersections.
Councilman Frank Morano is encouraging a bill that allows turning right when the light is red in certain safe places. This rule already exists in many parts of the country since 1977, when it was implemented to save fuel during the energy crisis, and he hopes it can work again now.
However, before approving any change, it’s necessary to do a study on the traffic to analyze:
- How well drivers can see around corners (visibility).
- How large vehicles, like trucks and buses, make turns.
- Safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers.
- Impacts on traffic and the environment.
Only some intersections would be suitable for this rule, but even partial changes could significantly improve traffic in Staten Island.
Support from local representatives
Other Staten Island representatives, like David M. Carr, support the bill. They point out that it’s a logical measure that could make driving in the borough much faster and more efficient, especially because many people depend on vehicles to move.
Councilman Morano also expressed his frustration:
“Staten Islanders spend far too much time waiting at empty intersections where a safe right turn could be made.”
When could the rule happen?
The bill, called Intro 1469-2025, is still under review by the New York City Council. Before it can be approved, it must be studied, debated, and voted on.
If passed, the rule would only apply to Staten Island, as the rest of New York State already allows right on red.
So…
If you live in Staten Island or drive there regularly, this possible change could directly affect your daily routine. For now, the decision is still being discussed. But if the bill moves forward, Staten Island drivers may soon experience a rule that much of the country already uses—one designed to save time, reduce traffic, and make everyday driving a little easier.
This might seem like a small change for many people, but once it’s part of our lives, everybody is going to appreciate it. I mean, who does like waiting and waiting at a red light when there’s no traffic? So, we just have to wait and see if this rule will expand to more places. Would you like this ‘’right on red’’ rule to be a reality everywhere?