OFF THE WIRE
By Jason Channell
For us that live to ride ... Oregon passed the law at a red light ..if
it goes through one cycle and does not detect you ..it is legal to
proceed with caution .
We’ve all been there. Waiting at a light that just won’t change. Your
bike won’t trip the sensor in the road, and the truck behind you is
very confused why you’re motioning for them to come closer. Thankfully
another state just did something about this common issue us
motorcyclists face far too often.
Oregon now joins 16 states including Illinois, Indiana, and Oklahoma
regarding “dead red” lights for motorcyclists and bicyclists. In
summary, the bill states that if you are at a red light and after 1 full
cycle you motorcycle is not detected, you may proceed with caution
through the intersection. The full Oregon bill is located here.
It’s a commonly circulated myth that weight triggers the sensors at
stoplights. It’s really a sensor that picks up metallic objects.
Sometimes you can see on the pavement where the sensors are, due to the
cuts and markings on the pavement. Not being in the center can help.
These are what’s known as “demand-triggered” lights.
The other main type of light timing is much easier for motorcycles,
as these are “timed” lights. They cycle on a timer whether there is
anyone there or not. If you’ve ever wondered why a light changed for
nobody, it’s most likely a timed light.
Some states are moving to a newer type of detection: video detection.
This is to better detect and serve traffic flow than the older sensor
and timed systems. This allows for changes during peak times better, and
is better at detecting motorcycles. As with all upgrades, the change
will take time.
Have you ever been stuck at a red light, with no relief in sight? What are your thoughts about “dead red” laws?
