Sensor under the road?
 

Hi, I'm sorry if this has been posted before, but I didn't see it in a quick search--may not have used the right terms though.

I'm relatively new to commuting (just on and off here and there until now, but have a new bike and plan to start fulll time tomorrow). Anyway, an issue I've started to run into and hoped someone would have a suggestion for involves the sensors under the road that control traffic lights.

Around us we have two types of sensors controlling traffic lights in times when traffic flow isn't heavy enough for the normal regular timing of the lights. The one type involves a motion detector of some sort and is attached to the traffic lights. These don't cause me any problems. The other sensor is under the road (I can see some sort of metal framework) and either detects mass, metal content via a magnet or something to know that a car is waiting there so the light should turn if there are no other cars at the intersection. For some reason, I don't seem to be able to set this sensor off. I am a clyde, but apparently not big enough if it's a mass issue and don't have enough metal in the bike if it's a magnetism issue. I try to be good about obeying traffic laws when riding, but if I obey this red light, I'll be stuck there forever until another car wanting to go my direction pulls up behind me and I pull far enough forward that they can engage the sensor.

Anyone have experience dealing with a similar situation? Suggestions as to the best course of action? Just run the red light if there are no cars coming? (Unfortunately, one such light is next to a police station and is on the most convenient route home from work).

Magnets to the rescue! Check these out

http://www.metacafe.com/watch/828731...raffic_lights/

http://www.instructables.com/id/Traf...for-your-Bike/

Everything you need to know, written by Steven G. Goodridge, Ph.D, a Doctor of Bike-ology who happens to be a longtime BF member.

Scam.

I have run into this problem often. Cross walk button will force the light to cycle. Might have to resort to riding the cross walk to make it across the street in some instances and where there is no cross walk button...going to have to run it. If a Cop tries to ticket explain it calmly and reason in most instance will prevail.

Thanks for the article Roody. I'll try to be more over the metal next time. I thought I was on top of it last time, but I'll definitely try again and see if I can get it to work now that I know the best place to be. If it doesn't work there, I'll know that it's not going to.

I have tried Grim's suggestion the last time, but would rather not resort to that as the corner where this happens most frequently is right next to a police station, but it's by far the most convenient way to go. Any other way would involve more traffic and traffic lights or going an extra mile (or more out of my way). Although, with this extra gut I'm trying to lose, maybe going an extra couple of miles wouldn't be the worst thing in the world for me...

I would guess that being across from a police station places you in the most unlikely location to receive a ticket.

If you cant trip the sensor, email the town traffic department, asking them to adjust sensitivity. Keep a copy of the Email to show to any cop that stops you.

Given that the police around here are sidewalk riders themselves, I imagine you're right. Still, it just feels wrong...