Twenty-one states where ‘dead red’ laws allow certain drivers to run red lights – some just have to wait nanoseconds

CERTAIN drivers can legally run red lights in 21 different states – but only under specific conditions.

However, riders must be aware that wait times can vary from state to state, with some requiring motorists to pause for mere nanoseconds, while in South Carolina, the wait could be up to 120 seconds.

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Under certain conditions, drivers in 21 US states can legally run red lights[/caption]

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The laws exist to address the issue of traffic light sensors failing to detect motorcycles[/caption]

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Motorcycles can fail to trigger these sensors, which can cause them to sit at red lights indefinitely[/caption]

According to Jalopnik, so-called Dead Red laws are a set of regulations in certain US states that allow motorcyclists to legally proceed through red traffic lights.

These laws exist to address the issue of traffic light sensors failing to detect motorcycles, often due to their smaller size and lack of sufficient magnetic material.

This, in turn, makes it difficult for the inductive loop sensors to register their presence when they’re stopped.

Common traffic light detection systems rely on magnetic fields to detect vehicles, but motorcycles often fail to trigger these sensors – which can cause them to sit at red lights indefinitely.

To this end, Dead Red laws exist to give motorcyclists permission to proceed through red lights if the signal fails to detect their bike.

However, riders must follow specific guidelines depending on the state.

In Minnesota, for example, riders can proceed after stopping if the light is malfunctioning or remains red for an “unreasonable time,” although the definition of “unreasonable” varies.

South Carolina, meanwhile, mandates a wait of 120 seconds, while Utah requires 90 seconds.

Tennessee allows riders to proceed based on their belief that the signal is inoperative.

Idaho requires waiting through at least one full light cycle.

But for motorcyclists in states like Alabama, Nebraska, Wyoming and Massachusetts, they must rely on alternative solutions, such as positioning their bike over pavement cuts where sensors are installed or using motorcycles with more metal content.

In some cases, they’re even urged to get help from nearby cars to trigger the sensors.

This means riders in states without Dead Red laws face difficulties at intersections.

This comes as a motorcycle festival recently ended in disaster after several crashes left many riders injured.

The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally resulted in a total of 18 crashes – with one of them fatal.

The South Dakota event took place between August 1 and 10 at 1040 Harley-Davidson Way in Sturgis, drawing in a crowd of 700,000 people.

The event is advertised as a thrilling and electrifying show that tests the limits of entertainment for motorcycle enthusiasts.

“Get ready for an electrifying event that will leave you breathless,” the website reads.

“The All American Thrill Show is set to take center stage during the opening ceremonies of the City of Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Friday, Aug. 2

“The event will kick off with a parade at 3 p.m., culminating in the unforgettable experience of the All American Thrill Show that will push the boundaries of entertainment and thrill seekers,” it states.

However, the much-anticipated event caused many serious auto accidents, putting several riders in danger.