traffic lights

[technocat]

I just contacted the Washington State Patrol, and this is the reply I received.

Current Washington state law does not allow for a motorcycle to stop and proceed through an intersection with a red light. Legislation has been proposed in the past to address this issue, but was never passed.

In 2009 (SB 5482) the legislature did pass a law to require that during the maintenance or monitoring activities, but subject to available funds, all vehicle-activated traffic control signals that do not currently routinely and reliable detect motorcycles and bicycles just be adjusted to do so…Where motorcycle and bicycle detection is limited to certain areas other than immediately before the stop line or crosswalk in the center of an existing vehicle-activated traffic control signal, those detection areas must be clearly marked on the pavement at the left turn lanes, through lanes, and limited right turn lanes…

If you are not already doing so it is suggested that you stop in the middle of the lane by the stop line or look for the marked detection areas to assist you in triggering the traffic signal. If you still find that the signal is not detecting the motorcycle it is suggested that you contact your local police department or Washington State Department of Transportation to report this so that the light can be reviewed to determine if the sensitivity of the light needs to be adjusted as outlined in RCW 47.36.025 (http://apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=47.36.025 <http://apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=47.36.025> ) to detect motorcycles and bicycles.

I guess I'll just have to call the police department for every instance I have of getting stuck.... O_o