Ride on Red Law

The legislation, widely recognized as the “Ride on Red” law, formally designated as Act 101, was officially signed into Pennsylvania state law in July of 2016. It subsequently went into full effect in September of that same year. This specific law grants motorists the legal ability to drive through traffic signals that are completely unresponsive or malfunctioning. However, it remains critical that all drivers utilize extreme caution and common sense when executing this maneuver on the roadways.

Originally, lawmakers primarily designed this legislation with bicycles and motorcycles in mind, as they frequently fail to trigger weight sensors at intersections due to their minimal size. Over time, the state expanded the rules to encompass all forms of vehicles, including horse and buggies. A skilled New Castle criminal lawyer knows that the main inspiration driving this legal shift was the increasing number of motorists trapped in frustratingly long waits. This issue is significantly more common in rural areas and during late hours when fewer heavy vehicles are on the road.

Representative Stephen Bloom (R-Cumberland) served an instrumental role in introducing this crucial legislation. Motorcycle advocacy organizations approached him to voice their safety concerns, motivating him to propose these changes. Representative Bloom realized the necessity of a practical solution that prioritizes public safety above all else. A knowledgeable New Castle DUI attorney will quickly remind you that this law absolutely does not give drivers a free pass to recklessly ignore functional traffic signals.

How Does This Work?

When you encounter a traffic light that is clearly failing to operate as intended, such as being completely unlit or blinking improperly, drivers must follow these specific steps:

• If the traffic signal is displaying a green or yellow light, you should proceed forward with caution.
• If the traffic signal is red or entirely unlit, you must treat the intersection exactly like a standard stop sign. You have to come to a complete stop, ensure there is absolutely no oncoming traffic, and finally proceed when you have the right of way.

It is vital to recognize that the legislation does not dictate a precise amount of time you must wait for the traffic signal to change. The primary requirement is that you come to a complete stop, allow the signal a chance to cycle through its standard rotation, and wait to see if it grants you a green light. Should the system skip your turn entirely, you are permitted to move forward. Discussing this with a New Castle criminal lawyer can clarify that you are basically treating the malfunctioning system as a standard stop sign. It is also important to point out that this legislation does not cover functional lights operating on long timers.

In the past, proceeding through an entirely dead traffic light was already legally feasible. However, the updated legislation specifically added a new provision clarifying that this same rule now applies to lights equipped with modern technology like vehicle sensors. The primary complication occurred when lighter vehicles simply could not trigger the sensor technology, leaving the light frozen indefinitely. Today, after waiting for a reasonable duration, careful drivers can legally travel through the intersection. For individuals who wish to read the legislation in its full, unaltered format, it is located within the Pennsylvania Code, Title 75, Section 3112.

So, the next time you encounter a malfunctioning traffic signal, remember to come to a complete stop, exercise caution, and then proceed if the light is truly broken. Additionally, be sure to report the faulty light to the city hall or the local police department.

Logue Law Group

Serving New Castle, Lawrence County, and the surrounding areas, our dedicated legal team is committed to protecting your rights. To schedule a free initial consultation with an experienced New Castle DUI attorney from Logue Law Group, please call us at 412.387.6901. Alternatively, you can contact us online. Our team is available to assist you at any time of the day or night.