Why are turns on red hazardous to pedestrians?

Turns on red can be hazardous to pedestrians because they create conflicts between turning vehicles and individuals crossing the street. When a driver makes a right turn on red, they may not be fully aware of pedestrians who are crossing or preparing to cross at the intersection. The driver may focus primarily on traffic conditions and the road ahead rather than looking for pedestrians or cyclists who have the right of way. This lack of visibility and attention can lead to dangerous situations where pedestrians are at risk of being struck by vehicles making turns.

Moreover, many intersections allow turns on red without requiring additional signage or signals for pedestrians, which can further complicate the situation. This means that pedestrians might not be sure if it's safe to cross, especially when they see vehicles turning in their direction. Because of these factors, it is crucial for both drivers and pedestrians to remain vigilant in these scenarios to ensure safety for everyone involved.