HB136 Alabama 2016 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Victor Gaston

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2016

Title

Motorcycles and bicycles, red lights, authorized to disregard traffic-control signal and proceed under certain conditions, Sec. 32-5A-32 am'd.

Summary

HB136 would let motorcycle or bicycle riders disregard a traffic-control signal and drive through an intersection under narrowly defined conditions when they believe the signal is inoperative due to the vehicle's lightweight design.

What This Bill Does

The bill amends Alabama's traffic-control rules to add an exception allowing motorcycle and bicycle riders to proceed through an intersection after stopping, if they reasonably believe the signal is inoperative because of the vehicle's lightweight design and no other vehicle is within 500 feet. The rider must proceed cautiously and follow all other traffic laws; the bill makes clear the rider does not gain a right to turn. The rider bears the burden of proving they acted under this rule, and if an accident occurs, it is prima facie evidence that the rider did not exercise the required caution. The bill also defines what constitutes a 'reasonable belief' in this context and sets an effective date after passage and governor approval.

Who It Affects

• Motorcycle and bicycle riders, who would be allowed to disregard a traffic-control signal and proceed through an intersection under the stated conditions.
• Other road users (drivers of other vehicles and pedestrians), who could be affected by changes in how intersections are navigated when this exception is used and by the new burden of proof and safety expectations.

Key Provisions

• Amends Section 32-5A-32 to authorize motorcycle or bicycle drivers to disregard a traffic-control signal and proceed through an intersection when certain conditions are met.
• Conditions include: the rider has stopped as instructed and has a reasonable belief the signal is inoperative due to the lightweight design of the motorcycle or bicycle; no other motor vehicle within 500 feet is approaching or entering the intersection; the rider proceeds through the intersection with reasonable care; the rider may not use this provision to make a turning maneuver.
• The rider bears the burden of proving they acted in accordance with this provision; if an accident occurs, it is prima facie evidence that the rider did not exercise the required caution.
• Definition of 'reasonable belief' depends on factors such as how long the rider has been stopped and the number of signal changes observed without a change in instruction.
• Effective date: the act becomes law on the first day of the third month after passage and governor approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Motor Vehicles