What to do when stuck at a car activated traffic light?

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02-03-23, 10:02 PM

#51

RCMoeur

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Quote:

Originally Posted by jolly_codger

PS At stop lines, video detection uses proprietary algorithms to identify changes in the image field created by stationary objects (radar detection identifies moving objects approaching the signal). The field of vision, i.e. the detection zone, is programmed by the user so if you can, the best chance of getting seen is to be in the middle of a lane. Not guaranteed because the user may have set it up to ignore certain sized objects.

Most video detection vendors will confidently state their systems will reliably detect bicyclists entering their defined detection zones. In general, my experience has been positive with video systems, unless there are other problems such as view blockage, camera misalignment, or mast arm shake. But they probably aren't going to be very good at detecting riders at night without lights.

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02-05-23, 07:11 PM

#52

BlazingPedals

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Quote:

Originally Posted by rsbob

Since the OP doesn’t list their location (a pet peeve for all that don’t) we cannot look up bicycle laws in your state. In Washington state another contributor found a law here stating that if a cyclist fails to trip the light and sits there through another entire signal cycle, they can then proceed with caution. Wikipedia wasn’t updated to state that.

You state may have a similar rule, but you will need to look it up.

I don't know if that codified anywhere, but the thinking is that if it doesn't trip for you, it's broken and you can treat it like a stop sign. Other option: Turn right, immediately do a u-turn, then turn right. Only if u-turns are legal, of course. Or, get off and become a pedestrian. True story: I had problems with a particular light tripping, and complained to the City's head traffic engineer. He suggested I go onto the sidewalk and hit the pedestrian button. Then I informed him that my 'bike' was a KZ-750, and that might not be advisable in a school zone. The light was fixed the next day.

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02-11-23, 08:03 PM

#53

JanMM

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Indiana has a 2 minute law that allows bikes and motorcycles to proceed with caution if they are ignored for 2 minutes by a traffic signal. Not very helpful if traffic is heavy.

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