Ride on Red Law

The “Ride on Red” law, more formally known as Act 101, was enacted in Pennsylvania in July 2016 and became effective in September of that year. This legislation permits drivers to safely proceed through red lights that are unresponsive or malfunctioning, provided they exercise due caution and good judgment.

A Law Initially Designed for Motorcyclists and Cyclists

Initially, Act 101 was created to address the challenges faced by motorcycles and bicycles. These smaller vehicles often go undetected by traffic signal weight sensors due to their lighter weight and smaller size, leaving riders stuck at red lights indefinitely. Over time, the law was extended to include all vehicles—including even horse-drawn buggies.

The inspiration behind the law stemmed from complaints from drivers, particularly those operating smaller vehicles, who often found themselves waiting excessively at red lights that failed to recognize their presence. This issue is especially common in rural areas and during late-night hours when fewer heavy vehicles are on the road.

Representative Stephen Bloom (R-Cumberland) played a pivotal role in the introduction of this legislation. Motorcycle advocates approached him regarding the challenges they faced with signal sensors. Seeing the widespread nature of this issue, Representative Bloom proposed a practical solution that would address these problems without compromising safety. However, it’s important to emphasize that this law does not allow drivers to recklessly ignore traffic signals.

How Does the “Ride on Red” Law Work?

If you find yourself at a signal that’s malfunctioning, stuck, or blinking, here’s how you should proceed:

Green or Yellow Light

• Carefully proceed as you normally would.

Red or Unlighted Light

1. Treat it as a stop sign.
2. Come to a complete stop.
3. Ensure there is no oncoming traffic or pedestrians.
4. Proceed cautiously and with the right of way, just as you would at a stop sign.

Key Notes:

• The law does not outline an exact waiting time before proceeding. Drivers are expected to stop, allow the light to complete its cycle, and wait for a green signal. If after stopping and waiting, it’s clear the light isn’t functioning properly, drivers may proceed with caution.
• Traffic lights operating on timers are not included under this law. If a light is simply designed to have a longer cycle, drivers must wait for the light to turn green.

Even after this, if you’re charged with a violation, hire a New Castle criminal lawyer, and craft a solid defense strategy for yourself.

Why Was Act 101 Needed?

Before this legislation, drivers stuck at inoperable traffic lights could proceed in some cases. However, the advancements in technology, like vehicle sensors in lights, created a new issue for smaller vehicles that couldn’t trigger these systems. This left many drivers stranded at intersections indefinitely. Act 101 ensures that after a reasonable wait, drivers of lightweight or unrecognized vehicles can legally and cautiously move through malfunctioning lights.

For those interested in the full text of the law, it can be reviewed in the Pennsylvania Code, Title 75, Section 3112. Read the full text here, and explore how a New Castle DUI attorney can help you out

What to Do When You Encounter a Malfunctioning Light

The next time you come across a faulty traffic signal:

1. Come to a full stop and assess the situation.
2. Proceed cautiously only if the light is clearly malfunctioning and it is safe to do so.
3. Report the problem to city hall or your local police department so that the signal can be repaired to prevent future delays or issues. And if you face a violation charge, don’t hesitate to call up a New Castle DUI attorney.

Legal Guidance for Any Traffic-Related Issues in New Castle

If you have questions about Act 101, traffic violations, or any other legal matters, the experienced team of New Castle criminal lawyers at Logue Criminal Defense is here to help. Located in New Castle, we proudly serve clients across the surrounding areas, including parts of West Virginia and Ohio.

Whether you’re looking for a New Castle DUI attorney, our dedicated professionals are available 24/7 to protect your rights. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 844.PITT.DUI (that’s 844.748.8384). For additional convenience, you can also contact us online at any time.

Take control with confidence. Depend on a New Castle criminal lawyer with the expertise to guide you every step of the way.