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Ride On Red: New Law Allows Drivers To Go Through Broken Red Lights

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- How many times have you waited at a red light feeling helpless, unable to move because the light is malfunctioning? That's all going to change because Governor Wolf and state legislators are giving drivers a break.

A new Pennsylvania law now allow drivers to proceed through traffic signals with caution if that signal is not working properly.

"Think it's a good idea since the majority of people do that any way, going through a flashing red light," said Mary Ann Grace.

Still others think the "Ride On Red" law is dangerous and should have never been passed.

"It's bad enough going through a red light any other time if its malfunctioning it's even worse," Jeff Yannacci said.

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The bill includes cars but it was originally intended for motorcycles, because they're too light to trigger the sensors that change signals .

"I think it's great, every time would be on my motorcycle the sensor wouldn't trigger, you have to sit there ten minutes waiting for it to change," Trooper Stephen Lamani said.

Pennsylvania State Police Spokesperson Stephen Limani urges drivers to make sure the light is broke before they move.

"Obviously we're going to cite you, if we're behind you and we see you taking Action without making sure the light has the ability to take its time. We understand there are malfunctions," he said.

In addition to proceeding with caution, drivers have an alternative. They can call PennDOT or the municipality in charge traffic signal and tell them to fix it.

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