Wisconsin law lets motorcyclists ignore some red lights

MILWAUKEE (AP) — When John Glass of West Allis rides his motorcycle, he carries a copy of the state statute that allows motorcyclists to ride through a red light under certain circumstances.

A Milwaukee Journal Sentinel report says some motorcycles are too small to trigger the traffic sensors at intersections. In those cases, riders can ignore the red light as long as they’ve waited at least 45 seconds and the intersection is clear.

Glass says the problem is, police themselves don’t always seem to know the 2006 law. So he carries a copy with him.

State engineer Joanna Bush says workers can fine-tune systems at intersections where motorcyclists consistently have problems. She says the state would prefer to be notified of such situations so they can make sure motorcyclists get green lights.