Ride on Red Law

The Ride on Red law, officially dubbed Act 101, has been shaping road safety in Pennsylvania since its enactment in July 2016. Taking effect in September the same year, this legislation allows drivers to cautiously proceed through malfunctioning or unresponsive red traffic lights, provided they prioritize safety and common sense.

What is the Ride on Red Law?

Originally designed with motorcycles and bicycles in mind, the Ride on Red law was developed to address their inability to trigger traffic signal weight sensors due to their lighter size. Over time, this law expanded to include all modes of vehicles, including horse-drawn buggies. The motivation behind this rule stemmed from increasing complaints about prolonged waits at certain traffic lights. Smaller vehicles, particularly in rural areas or during late hours without much traffic, were often at a disadvantage in triggering signal changes.

Who Introduced This Law?

The key figure behind this legislation was Representative Stephen Bloom (R-Cumberland). Concerns from motorcyclist organizations sparked his initiative to craft a solution. Bloom understood that this was not an isolated issue but rather a widespread concern affecting safety and convenience. His efforts emphasized a practical yet cautious approach, ensuring that drivers do not use this law as an excuse to ignore traffic regulations recklessly.

How Does It Work?

If you approach a traffic light and find it unresponsive, defective, or entirely unlit, here’s what you should do:

• At a Green or Yellow Light

Proceed through the intersection with caution.

• At a Red or Unlighted Traffic Light

Treat the light as a stop sign:

• Come to a complete stop.
• Ensure there’s no oncoming traffic.
• Only proceed when the way is clear, much like navigating any conventional stop sign.

It’s important to note two key points:

• The law doesn’t specify how long you must wait before proceeding, but patience is crucial. Drivers are expected to allow the light to cycle through. If it skips your turn, only then may you cautiously move forward.
• This law does not cover traffic lights controlled by long timers, which simply take longer to switch between cycles but are still operational.

A Closer Look at the Technology

Previously, it was permissible to proceed through an intersection if lights were visibly inoperable. Act 101 formalized this by extending the same flexibility to traffic lights equipped with advanced vehicle sensor technology. Lightweight vehicles, such as motorcycles and bicycles, often failed to trigger these sensors, leading to lengthy delays. With this law, drivers of all vehicle types now have a clear pathway for navigating these scenarios after waiting for a reasonable time.

For those curious to explore the legal text in detail, you can find Act 101 within the Pennsylvania Code, Title 75, Section 3112.

Quick Reminder for Drivers

Whenever you encounter a defective traffic signal:

1. Always come to a complete stop.
2. Evaluate the traffic situation and proceed cautiously if safe.
3. Report the malfunctioning signal to Erie County city hall or your local police department for repairs.

The intent behind the Ride on Red law is not an open invitation to ignore traffic regulation but rather a practical adjustment to ensure all drivers have a safe and stress-free driving experience, no matter the vehicle type.

Logue Law Group: Advocating for Your Rights in Erie County

At Logue Law Group, our commitment to safeguarding your rights is unwavering. Whether facing challenges involving traffic violations or needing an Erie criminal lawyer, our experienced team is here to assist. We proudly offer free initial consultations to discuss your situation and provide sound legal guidance.

Contact us today at 844.PITT.DUI or connect with us online. The dedicated team at Logue Law Group is available around the clock to serve Erie County and its neighboring areas.

Logue Law Group stands as your trusted ally, ready to represent you in cases ranging from traffic-related matters to more complex criminal defense needs. Secure your future with a call today!