Relates to the operation of bicycles at stop signs and traffic-control signals

Showing the cosponsors who are on Agora, A to Z. The official record may list more.

• Democratic48
• Republican2

This bill has cosponsors from more than one party.

Shown in neutral colors by design; Agora is non-partisan.

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why Rachel May says this is needed

A safe transportation system is a people-centered transportation system. In order to build a truly inclusive multi-modal transportation system, New York State must recognize that not all modes of transportation oper- ate on the sample principles and need to be governed by identical laws. Under current state law, bicyclists are largely expected to use roads as if they were driving a car. This creates a system where drivers and cyclists can feel as if they are at odds with one another, with both sides uncertain of the best options available to them to maximize their safety as they go to work, run errands, or otherwise go about their day. With some simple changes in our state's laws, we can significantly enhance bicyclist safety. One important change is the so-called "Idaho Stop" (also known as 'stop-as-yield' laws), which allows cyclists to read stop signs as yield signs and red lights as stop signs. Research shows that these laws allow cyclists to manage their risk to their advantage by reducing their need to stop and go. According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, by enacting this law in 1982, Idaho saw an immediate reduction in cyclist injuries from vehicle traffic. When a limited version was enacted in Delaware, traffic crashes involving cyclists at stop signs fell by almost 1/4. In state after state that implement the Idaho stop, cyclist safety has increased. Such laws do not negate a cyclist's responsibility to yield to other traffic at intersections or otherwise respect traffic safety. Rather, they acknowledge that bicycles operate different from cars and so treats the safety of people on bicycles in slightly different ways. The result is safer roads, better cycling conditions, and a hopeful expansibif of bicycling. To quote from a NHTSA memo: "When bicyclists can maintain a safe but precautionary momentum through an intersection, it allows continuous traffic flow." That is why NHTSA's acting adminis- trator, Ann Carlson, called for states to legalize the Idaho stop at a 2022 conference.

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.