The “Ride on Red” Law: Enhancing Road Safety

Pennsylvania’s “Ride on Red” legislation, officially designated as Act 101, became law in July 2016 and took effect that September. This important piece of traffic legislation addresses a common frustration experienced by drivers throughout the Commonwealth: getting stuck at traffic signals that fail to detect their vehicle or malfunction entirely.

What Is the “Ride on Red” Law?

The legislation was originally created to help motorcyclists and cyclists who frequently encountered problems with traffic light sensors. These sensors, designed to detect vehicle weight and metal mass, often failed to recognize smaller vehicles like motorcycles and bicycles. However, lawmakers recognized that this issue affected a broader range of vehicles and expanded the law’s coverage to include all types of vehicles, from compact cars to traditional horse-drawn buggies.

This traffic safety measure has proven particularly valuable in rural areas and during late-night hours when fewer heavy vehicles are present to trigger sensor-based traffic lights. If you find yourself dealing with traffic violations related to these situations, consulting with a Clarion traffic lawyer can help you understand your rights under this law.

Legislative Background and Leadership

Representative Stephen Bloom, a Republican from Cumberland County, championed this legislation after receiving numerous complaints from motorcycle advocacy groups. These organizations highlighted the widespread nature of the problem and the safety concerns it created. Representative Bloom’s efforts focused on developing practical solutions that would enhance road safety while addressing the technological limitations of existing traffic control systems.

The law specifically targets situations where modern traffic signal technology creates unintended consequences for law-abiding drivers. It’s important to understand that this legislation does not encourage reckless driving or disregard for traffic safety protocols.

And here’s why you need a Clarion speeding ticket attorney by your side.

How to Navigate Malfunctioning Traffic Signals

When You Encounter Different Signal States

Understanding proper procedures for each type of signal malfunction is crucial for both safety and legal compliance:

Green or Yellow Signals

• Proceed with normal caution
• Maintain heightened awareness of surrounding traffic
• Continue through the intersection as you would with any functioning signal

Red or Non-Functioning Signals

• Come to a complete and full stop
• Treat the intersection as if controlled by a stop sign
• Carefully observe all approaching traffic from every direction
• Proceed only when you can safely navigate the intersection
• Remember that other drivers have the same right-of-way rules as at a traditional stop sign

Important Procedural Requirements

Pennsylvania law does not specify an exact waiting period before you may proceed through a malfunctioning red light. The key requirement is that you must completely stop and allow the traffic signal system adequate time to cycle through its normal sequence. If the signal fails to provide you with a green light after a complete cycle, you may then proceed with appropriate caution.

For drivers facing traffic citations related to these situations, a Clarion speeding ticket attorney can provide valuable guidance on how this law might apply to your specific circumstances.

Understanding the Technology Behind the Problem

Modern traffic control systems rely on various detection technologies, including:

• Weight-sensitive sensors embedded in the roadway
• Inductive loop detectors that sense metal vehicle components
• Video detection systems that use cameras to identify vehicles
• Magnetic sensors that detect changes in the local magnetic field

These systems work effectively for larger vehicles but often fail to register motorcycles, bicycles, and some smaller cars. This technological limitation led to the development of Act 101, which provides legal relief for drivers experiencing these detection failures.

That’s why you need to seek help from a Clarion speeding ticket attorney for your better assistance.

Legal Implications and Compliance

The “Ride on Red” law specifically addresses situations involving sensor-equipped traffic lights that fail to detect certain vehicles. This legislation does not apply to traffic signals with standard timed sequences or those with extended timing for specific traffic management purposes.

Before this law’s enactment, drivers could potentially face traffic violations for proceeding through red lights, even when those lights malfunctioned. The new legislation provides legal protection for drivers who follow proper procedures when encountering genuinely malfunctioning signals.

If you need assistance understanding how this law applies to a traffic violation you’ve received, working with an experienced Clarion traffic lawyer in Clarion can help protect your driving record and legal interests.

Finding the Complete Legal Text

The full text of Pennsylvania’s “Ride on Red” law appears in the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code, specifically Title 75, Section 3112. This section provides comprehensive details about the law’s requirements, exceptions, and proper implementation procedures. That’s why it is crucial to hire a Clarion traffic lawyer, as they can clearly explain what traffic laws are, and where you can be saved.

Reporting Malfunctioning Traffic Signals

When you encounter a malfunctioning traffic light, taking appropriate action helps protect other drivers and improves overall traffic safety:

Immediate Steps

• Follow the safety procedures outlined above
• Document the location, time, and nature of the malfunction
• Note any unusual traffic patterns or safety concerns

Reporting Procedures

• Contact your local municipal offices or city hall
• Report the malfunction to local police departments
• Provide specific location information and description of the problem
• Follow up to ensure repairs are scheduled

Prompt reporting helps traffic engineers identify problematic intersections and schedule necessary maintenance or upgrades.

Legal Representation in Clarion County

Traffic violations can have serious consequences for your driving record, insurance rates, and legal standing. Whether you’re dealing with issues related to malfunctioning traffic signals or other traffic-related charges, having proper legal representation is essential.

At Logue Law Group , we provide comprehensive legal services for drivers throughout Clarion and surrounding Pennsylvania communities, as well as areas in West Virginia and Ohio. Our experienced Clarion traffic lawyer understands the complexities of Pennsylvania traffic law, including the “Ride on Red” legislation and its proper application.

If you’re facing traffic charges or need guidance about your rights under Pennsylvania traffic laws, a knowledgeable Clarion speeding ticket attorney can help evaluate your situation and develop an appropriate legal strategy. We offer initial consultations to discuss your case and explain your legal options.

For immediate assistance with traffic-related legal matters, contact our group at 844.PITT.DUI or reach out through our online contact system. Our Clarion traffic lawyer remains available to provide the guidance and representation you need to protect your interests and driving privileges.

Understanding Pennsylvania’s traffic laws, including the “Ride on Red” legislation, helps ensure you can navigate challenging driving situations safely and legally while protecting yourself from unnecessary traffic violations.