Alaska Traffic Rule 2025 Update: Understanding the Right Turn on Red Rule

As of March 2025, Alaska’s right turn on red rule remains largely unchanged from previous years. Drivers in Alaska are generally permitted to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop, yielding to pedestrians and other vehicles, and ensuring it is safe to proceed. However, there are some important considerations and exceptions to keep in mind:

Key Points

1. Right Turn on Red Arrow: In Alaska, a right turn on red is prohibited when a red arrow is displayed. This differs from some other states like Florida and Oregon, which still allow right turns on a red arrow.
2. Left Turn on Red: Alaska is one of five states that permit left turns at red lights from a one-way or two-way street onto a one-way street, provided there is no sign prohibiting the turn. This rule applies to many intersections in downtown Anchorage and other urban areas.
3. Yield Requirements: When making a right turn on red, drivers must yield to:

• Pedestrians in crosswalks
• Bicyclists
• Vehicles moving on their green light

1. Complete Stop: Vehicles must come to a complete stop at the clearly marked stop line or, if none exists, before entering the crosswalk or intersection.
2. Prohibited Turns: Right turns on red may be prohibited at certain intersections. Always look for and obey signs indicating “No Turn on Red” or similar restrictions.

Safety Considerations

• Roundabouts and 4-Way Stops: While not directly related to right turns on red, it’s worth noting that Alaska drivers have reported confusion with roundabouts and 4-way stops. Drivers should review these rules to ensure safe navigation.
• U-Turns: At intersections where U-turns are permitted, drivers turning right on red must yield to those making U-turns, as they have the right of way.

Remember, while right turns on red are generally permitted in Alaska, safety should always be the top priority. Drivers should exercise caution, be aware of their surroundings, and only proceed when it is safe to do so.

Sources:

1. https://www.findlaw.com/traffic/traffic-tickets/alaska-traffic-law.html
2. https://www.reddit.com/r/alaska/comments/o5403s/til_alaska_is_one_of_five_states_that_allow_left/
3.  https://driversed.com/driving-information/driving-techniques/making-right-and-left-turns/
4.  https://www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/2024-01/AK_FY24-26HSP-tag.pdf