SPRINGFIELD — Gov. Pat Quinn put the brakes on a proposal Friday
that would have allowed motorcycle riders and bicyclists to go
straight through a red light after stopping.

Despite winning widespread support from lawmakers in the spring,
Quinn said the legislation could create dangerous situations on the
state’s roadways and should be altered.

Under the proposal, motorcycle drivers would be able to proceed
through a red light that fails to turn green within a reasonable
amount of time.

Quinn called on lawmakers to put a two-minute time limit on the
wait to ensure the law is enforced the same throughout the
state.

“Similar laws enacted in other states established a specified
time,” the governor wrote.

Motorcycle rights groups say motorcycle riders can sometimes get
stuck at a red light for several light cycles because the lighter
weight of the two-wheeled vehicles won’t trigger sensors that cause
stoplights to change at some intersections.

Sen. Gary Forby, D-Benton, who sponsored the legislation, said
he was disappointed with the governor’s decision, but hopes he can
work out a compromise.

“We’re going to sit down and take a look at it,” Forby said
Friday.

As a motorcycle rider himself, Forby said he’s been stuck at red
lights numerous times.

National groups also support the change.

“It’s just a safety thing for us,” said Imre Szauter, government
relations manager for the American Motorcyclist Association.

In his message to lawmakers, Quinn also requested the practice
be barred at intersections that have been posted with signs warning
against taking a right turn on red after stopping.

“I believe when signs are posted prohibiting turn either right
or left on a red signal, it is poor public policy to allow
motorcycles the authority to proceed straight at such
intersections,” the governor noted.

At least 12 other states have laws on the books allowing for
bikes to go straight on red. Among them are Missouri, Wisconsin,
Arkansas, Minnesota and Tennessee.

The legislation is House Bill 2860.

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