Pennsylvania’s New Red Light Law Goes into Effect

A new law allowing drivers to go through a red light--under certain conditions--went into effect in Pennsylvania on Sunday.

Governor Tom Wolf signed the bill into law in July. It took effect September 18.

The new rule allows drivers to go through a red light when the sensor appears to be malfunctioning--such as if it is blinking or if the light’s sensor appears not to be working, keeping the light from turning green.

The law was originally intended to help motorcyclists, but it was expanded to apply to all vehicles.
Some traffic lights use sensors that are under the pavement so when a car comes up, it triggers the sensor. The problem is motorcycles sometimes don't trigger it, so that light never turns green.

There is no designation as to how long vehicles must wait to proceed through the light making intersections controlled by traffic lights a little more dangerous.

Always proceed through a traffic light with caution, looking in all directions before going through, even on a green light.

For more about accidents or if you or a loved one has been injured as a result of an accident, call 1-800-444-5309 or visit PisanchynLawFirm.com.