Bill Would Let Bikes, Motorcycles Go Through Red Lights

Sunday, January 23, 2011

Bill Would Let Bikes, Motorcycles Go Through Red Lights

According to the Virginian-Pilot, a House subcommittee gave unanimous approval Wednesday to HB1981, sponsored by Del. Tag Greason, R-Loudoun County, allowing a bicycle, motorcycle or moped to proceed through a red traffic signal if the vehicle weighs too little to trip the light to green.

In order to proceed legally, the rider would have to wait two full light cycles if the light is cycling normally – for instance, if the bike rider is in a left-turn lane. If the light is not cycling, the rider would have to wait two minutes.

Lobbyists for bicycle and motorcycle groups hailed the measure, saying current law forces their members to be scofflaws if they don’t want to wait interminably at red lights.

The bill now advances to the full House Transportation Committee.