Ride on Red Law

West Virginia’s innovative traffic legislation, commonly called the “Ride on Red” law, represents a significant shift in how drivers can legally navigate malfunctioning traffic signals. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about Act 101 and its practical applications for everyday driving situations.

What Is the Ride on Red Law?

Act 101 became official West Virginia legislation in July 2016, taking effect that September. This groundbreaking law allows motorists to legally proceed through unresponsive or broken red traffic lights under specific circumstances. However, drivers must exercise extreme caution and sound judgment when applying this law.

The legislation initially targeted motorcycles and bicycles, which frequently remain undetected by traffic signal weight sensors due to their lighter mass. Over time, lawmakers expanded the law’s scope to encompass all vehicle types, including traditional horse and buggies commonly seen throughout West Virginia’s rural communities.

The driving force behind this legislation stemmed from mounting frustration among drivers experiencing extended waits at traffic lights, particularly those operating smaller vehicles. This problem becomes especially pronounced in rural areas and during overnight hours when fewer heavy vehicles travel the roads to trigger sensor-based traffic signals. A qualified Wheeling DUI attorney can provide additional guidance on traffic law compliance.

Representative Stephen Bloom (R-Cumberland) championed this legislative initiative after motorcycle advocacy groups brought their concerns to his attention. Representative Bloom understood the widespread nature of this traffic problem and recognized the importance of developing a practical solution that maintains public safety as its primary focus. The law explicitly prohibits reckless disregard for traffic control devices.

How Does the Ride on Red Law Function in Practice?

When encountering malfunctioning traffic signals, drivers must follow specific procedures outlined in the legislation:

For Green or Yellow Lights

• Proceed through the intersection with heightened caution
• Maintain awareness of other vehicles and pedestrians
• Follow standard traffic safety protocols

For Red or Completely Dark Lights

• Come to a complete and full stop at the intersection
• Treat the malfunctioning signal exactly as you would a stop sign
• Carefully check for oncoming traffic from all directions
• Proceed only when safe, following right-of-way rules identical to stop sign intersections

The legislation deliberately avoids specifying exact waiting times for signal changes. The fundamental requirement involves coming to a complete stop, allowing the traffic light sufficient time to cycle through its normal sequence, and waiting for a green light. If the signal skips your turn or fails to provide a green light after reasonable cycling, you may proceed with appropriate caution. Essentially, drivers should approach malfunctioning signals with the same mindset they would use at any stop sign intersection. Consulting with a Wheeling DUI attorney can help clarify any legal questions about traffic violations.

Important Limitations

This law specifically excludes traffic lights operating on timer systems that simply have longer cycles than others. The legislation only applies to genuinely malfunctioning or unresponsive traffic control devices.

Historical Context and Legal Background

Before Act 101’s implementation, proceeding through inoperable traffic lights was already legally permissible under certain circumstances. However, the new legislation addressed a critical gap in existing law by specifically covering lights equipped with modern vehicle detection technology, such as magnetic sensors embedded in roadway surfaces.

The primary issue arose when lighter vehicles, particularly motorcycles and small cars, failed to trigger these technological systems, causing traffic lights to remain red indefinitely. Now, after waiting for a reasonable time period, cautious drivers can legally proceed through intersections with malfunctioning sensor-equipped signals. If you’ve been cited under this law or misunderstood the requirements, consulting a Wheeling criminal lawyer may help you challenge the charge and clarify your rights under the law.

Legal Reference and Documentation

Drivers interested in reviewing the complete text of this legislation can find it within the West Virginia Chapter 17C. This comprehensive legal document provides detailed specifications and requirements for lawful compliance with the Ride on Red provisions.

Practical Safety Recommendations

When you encounter a malfunctioning traffic signal during your travels, remember these essential safety steps:

1. Complete Stop Required: Always come to a full and complete stop, regardless of circumstances
2. Exercise Extreme Caution: Carefully assess traffic conditions from all directions
3. Proceed Only When Safe: Move through the intersection only after confirming safety
4. Report Malfunctions: Contact city hall or local police departments to report faulty traffic signals

These safety measures protect both you and other road users while ensuring compliance with West Virginia traffic laws.

Professional Legal Support in the Wheeling Area

The Logue Criminal Defense team provides comprehensive legal services throughout the greater Wheeling region, including West Virginia and Ohio. Our experienced legal Wheeling criminal lawyers understand the complexities of West Virginia traffic laws and their practical applications.

Whether you need guidance on traffic law compliance or face charges related to traffic violations, our team stands ready to protect your legal rights. We offer free initial consultations with seasoned criminal defense attorneys who understand how laws like Act 101 affect everyday drivers.

For immediate assistance, contact our office at 844.PITT.DUI or reach out through our online consultation system. Our legal Wheeling DUI attorney remains available around the clock to address your concerns and provide professional guidance when you need it most.

Understanding West Virginia’s Ride on Red law empowers drivers to navigate traffic situations safely and legally while avoiding potential complications with law enforcement. Always prioritize safety over convenience, and don’t hesitate to seek professional legal advice from a Wheeling criminal lawyer when questions arise about traffic law compliance.