Ride on Red Law

The legislation informally known as the “Ride on Red” law, officially designated as Act 101, was signed into law in Pennsylvania in July 2016. By September of that same year, the statute went into full effect across the Commonwealth. Fundamentally, this law permits motorists to drive through a red traffic signal if the light is unresponsive or malfunctioning. However, it is vital to understand that this is not a free pass to ignore traffic rules; drivers must utilize significant caution and exercise common sense when making the decision to proceed through an intersection.

The Origins and Expansion of Act 101

In the beginning, the scope of the law was focused primarily on bicycles and motorcycles. Because of their lighter mass and smaller physical size, these modes of transport often fail to trigger the weight sensors embedded in the road surface that trigger traffic signals to change. Since its inception, the rule has expanded to cover all vehicle types, even including horse-and-buggy transport. The push for this change stemmed from a growing frustration among motorists who found themselves stuck at lights for excessive periods, particularly in rural zones or during late-night hours when heavy traffic is scarce. Representative Stephen Bloom (R-Cumberland) was a key figure in championing this bill after motorcycle groups highlighted the safety risks of being stranded at intersections. If you face legal trouble regarding traffic laws, consulting a Morgantown criminal lawyer can help clarify your rights. Rep. Bloom realized this was a widespread issue requiring a practical safety solution, though he emphasized heavily that the law does not grant drivers the freedom to recklessly disregard traffic signals.

How to Navigate Unresponsive Signals

When you encounter a traffic control signal that isn’t working correctly—whether it is completely dark, blinking, or stuck on a specific color—there are specific protocols to follow to ensure you remain legal and safe on the road.

If you find yourself in this situation, adhere to these steps:

• If the traffic signal is flashing yellow or green, you may move forward with care.
• If the traffic signal is unlighted or stuck on red, you must treat the intersection exactly as you would a stop sign. Come to a complete halt, check to ensure the path is clear of oncoming cross-traffic, and only then proceed when you have the right of way, just as you would at any standard stop sign.

It is essential to note that the statute does not define a specific amount of time you must wait before proceeding. The general rule is to stop completely and wait long enough to determine that the light is not cycling through its phases to give you a green signal. If the cycle skips you, you are permitted to move. Essentially, handle the malfunctioning light as if it were a physical stop sign. While this law adds flexibility, improper judgment could lead to traffic stops, where a Morgantown DUI attorney might be needed if other infractions are suspected during the interaction.

Important Distinctions and Legal Codes

It is also worth mentioning a crucial distinction regarding this legislation: this law does not apply to traffic lights that are simply on a long timer. It is specifically designed for malfunctioning hardware or sensors. In the past, it was generally accepted that one could proceed through a broken light, but this legislation codified that right, specifically addressing technology like vehicle sensors. The core problem was that lighter vehicles simply didn’t register, leaving the light red indefinitely. Now, after waiting a reasonable duration to ensure the light is unresponsive, a cautious driver can legally cross the intersection.

For those who wish to read the specific statutory language in its entirety, the text is available in the Pennsylvania Code, Title 75, Section 3112. Familiarity with the specific code is something a Morgantown criminal lawyer would recommend for anyone driving frequently in the state. So, the next time you find yourself stuck at a stubborn red light that refuses to change, remember to stop fully, look both ways, and proceed only if it is safe and the light is truly not functioning properly. Furthermore, be a good citizen and report the faulty equipment to city hall or the local police department.

Mountaineer Law Group

Serving Morgantown, Berks County, and the surrounding regions, the Morgantown criminal lawyer team is dedicated to protecting your legal rights. If you find yourself in need of assistance, do not hesitate to reach out. To set up a free initial consultation with a knowledgeable professional, please contact us. Whether you need general defense or an attorney, call us at (304) 381-3656 or reach out online. Our Morgantown DUI attorney is standing by to assist you at any time of the day or night.