Cities Look to Copy Montreal’s Ban of Right Turns on Red, but Safety Data Lacking

In an effort to prevent pedestrian and cyclist deaths, more North American cities are contemplating imitating Montreal by banning drivers from turning right on red lights. But despite decades of debate, even traffic safety advocates who favour the ban say there’s a lack of reliable data proving the measure improves safety. Valerie Smith, the director of road safety and safe mobility programs at injury prevention group Parachute, said allowing drivers to turn right at red lights creates a “hostile environment” for pedestrians and cyclists—especially children, older seniors and people with mobility problems. She said it forces pedestrians to contend with distracted drivers and gauge whether an approaching driver will stop for them....