New law says bikes, not cars can run malfunctioning red lights

When a bicycle fails to trip the traffic light detector, the cyclist can go through the red light after stopping and making sure the intersection is clear.

Over the weekend, Ohio Gov. John Kasich signed House Bill 9 into law to make the clarification. A previous law indicated it applied to all motorists — not just cyclists. Legislators attached an “emergency” clause to the bill so that it takes immediate effect.

Related: Ohio fixes law that let cars run red lights

Speaking of bikes on roads, another new law in effect requires motorists to give at least three feet of passing space between their vehicle and a bicycle. More than two dozen states already had the three-foot law on the books, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

Related: Dayton could get elevated bike path

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