Ride on Red Law

Officially designated as Act 101, Pennsylvania’s “Ride on Red” legislation was signed into law in July 2016 and became fully operational by September of that year. This statute allows motorists to navigate through traffic signals that are unresponsive or malfunctioning. However, it is imperative that drivers utilize significant caution and good judgment when making such maneuvers.

Originally, the scope of this legislation was focused on bicycles and motorcycles. These smaller modes of transport often fail to trigger the weight sensors embedded in the road at traffic lights due to their lighter mass. Over time, the law was broadened to encompass all vehicles, extending even to horse-and-buggy transport. The driving force behind Act 101 was the increasing frequency of motorists—especially those in smaller vehicles—getting stuck at lights for extended periods. This issue is particularly common in rural regions and during late-night hours when heavy traffic is scarce. Representative Stephen Bloom (R-Cumberland) was instrumental in championing this bill after motorcycle groups highlighted the issue. Bloom understood the widespread frustration and the need for a pragmatic solution that did not compromise safety. While this law aids flow, a Harrisburg federal criminal lawyer would remind drivers that it does not grant permission to recklessly ignore traffic signals.

How Does This Work?

When a traffic signal is not operating correctly—whether it is completely dark, blinking, or simply stuck—drivers are expected to adhere to specific protocols:

• Green or Yellow Lights: If the signal is displaying these colors, you should proceed with standard caution.
• Red or Unlit Lights: You must treat the intersection exactly as you would a stop sign. Bring your vehicle to a complete halt, verify that the path is clear of oncoming traffic, and then proceed when you have the right of way.

It is important to note that the law does not dictate a precise amount of time you must wait before moving. The rule of thumb is to come to a full stop and allow the light to cycle through to a green signal. If the cycle skips you, or if the light simply never changes, you are permitted to move forward. If you are unsure about the legality of your driving maneuvers, consulting a Harrisburg DUI attorney can provide clarity on local traffic regulations. Basically, view the malfunctioning signal as a stop sign.

It is worth noting that this legislation does not apply to lights that are merely on long timers. It is specifically for lights that are not functioning as intended.

In the past, there was a general understanding that one could proceed through a broken light, but the updated legislation codified this, specifically addressing technology like vehicle sensors. The problem was that lighter vehicles would sit indefinitely because the sensor never acknowledged their presence. Now, after waiting a reasonable duration, a careful driver can move through the intersection. For those who wish to read the specific legal text, it is located in the Pennsylvania Code, Title 75, Section 3112. Understanding these nuances is something a Harrisburg federal criminal lawyer deals with when traffic stops escalate into larger legal matters.

The next time you find yourself stuck at a signal that refuses to change, remember the protocol: stop completely, look for safety, and proceed only if the light is truly malfunctioning. Furthermore, you should report the defective equipment to the local police department or city hall.

The Logue Law Group

Serving Harrisburg, Dauphin County, and the surrounding regions, the Logue Law Group is committed to defending your rights. If you need legal assistance, you can schedule a complimentary initial consultation. Please call us at 412-387-6901 or reach out to us online. Whether you need a Harrisburg DUI attorney, our team is available to support you 24/7.