Jul. 21, 2016
HARRISBURG — Gov. Tom Wolf Wednesday signed into law legislation including provisions, authored by Rep. Stephen Bloom (R-Cumberland), to give motorcyclists and other drivers the option to proceed with caution through an intersection when trapped at an unresponsive traffic light.
Bloom’s House bill language allows drivers of all vehicles the option to proceed with caution through an intersection when a traffic signal is unresponsive, only after exercising due care as provided by law.
“If the vehicle detection system fails to recognize the vehicle and the driver has come to a complete stop, the driver must then make sure it is safe to continue, and only then would they be able to lawfully proceed with caution through the intersection,” Bloom explained.
Originally intended only for motorcycles, which often fail to trigger traffic lights due to their smaller size, the bill was expanded to apply to all vehicles.
Deemed “Ride on Red,” Bloom added that the goal of the legislation is to solve practical problems while ensuring safety.
“This law does not give drivers a free pass, but ensures a safe and legal option to avoid the danger and inconvenience of being trapped in perpetuity at a locked red light,” Bloom said. “This issue is more common than many people realize, especially on rural roads or during late hours when long periods often elapse before a heavier vehicle comes along to finally trip the unresponsive light.”
Signed into law as part of
Act 101, the new law takes effect in 60 days.
Representative Stephen Bloom
199th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Abbey Haslam
717.260.6222
ahaslam@pahousegop.com
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