In most of the U.S., states consider cyclists vehicle operators, even if the bikes don’t have a motor of one kind or another. As such, they’re beholden to the same traffic laws as cars. When a cyclist “runs” a stop sign or traffic light, though, they could be pulling an “Idaho stop.” You might be surprised to find that the act is actually completely legal in some areas.
In some states, cyclists can “stop-as-yield”
While you’re out and about, you may see a cyclist slow and then continue through an intersection despite the presence of a stop sign. You may also see a rider approach a traffic light, stop, confirm the coast is clear, and then proceed through the red light.
Depending on your location, this behavior could be completely within local traffic laws.
Cyclists often sit at red traffic lights that don’t recognize their presence. Instead, riders feel legally “forced” to stay at red lights through multiple signal cycles even though the intersection is completely clear of cross traffic. Some call this scenario a “Dead Red.”
In 1982, Idaho first adopted the “stop-as-yield” law. The law allowed cyclists to both slow and proceed at stop signs and to treat red traffic lights as stop signs. As such, folks coined these acts “Idaho stops.”
Interestingly, the NHTSA seems to support “stop-as-yield” laws. It reported that cyclists display more care when navigating through a red light than a green one. Moreover, treating a stop sign as “yield” allows cyclists to enjoy their route without tiring from frequent, unnecessary stops. This could encourage more folks to ride bikes, relieving traffic congestion.
Of course, cyclists are expected to exercise extreme caution when performing an Idaho stop. In certain states, for instance, they have to wait up to 120 seconds before riding through a red light. As of this writing, only 12 states have varying “stop-as-yield” laws, so be sure to check your local cyclist laws to see if Idaho Stops are allowed in your area.
