San Jose Motorcyclists Who Run Red Lights Also Run Big Risks

As highlighted in a recent report by Mercury News regarding traffic sensors that control traffic signal lights in Silicon Valley, CA, San Jose motorcyclists tempted to run “slow” red lights face increased risk of death or injury through motorcycle accidents.

Throughout San Jose and the State of California, traffic lights are controlled by sensors embedded in the pavement of traffic lanes at intersections—When a sensor detects the weight of a vehicle approaching an intersection with a red light yet without other traffic, the signal cycle changes to green automatically, allowing the motorist to proceed and thus save fuel and time.

Although sensor technology has improved in recent years, it seems that many Silicon Valley bikers are frustrated because relatively-lightweight motorcycles often fail to trigger these sensors, which have traditionally been designed to detect heavier vehicles such as cars and trucks. Worse, because many sensors won’t change traffic lights for San Jose motorcycles until a heavier vehicle approaches the intersection, frustrated bikers may habitually run red lights believing that no other vehicles are nearby and thus suffer serious motorcycle accidents.

The fact is that California motorcyclists run big risks when they run red lights.

According to statistics published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), as well as anecdotal reports by California motorcycle lawyers, intersections with traffic signals are the most common place for accidents, including serious motorcycle accidents.

Although technology has given us better traffic lights and more-intelligent transportation in general, San Jose motorcycle crashes still continue to occur. If you or a family member has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Palo Alto, Santa Cruz, Silicon Valley, San Jose, or anywhere in the State of California, you should contact an experienced San Jose motorcycle attorney for help. A San Jose motorcycle accident lawyer can work to protect your rights and win the financial compensation and other relief that you deserve. Call the San Jose motorcycle attorneys at 1-800-4-BIKERS to set up your free appointment today.


“If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, don’t let it steal your freedom! Call 1-800-4-BIKERS to learn how an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can get your bike fixed, money for your medical bills, and compensation for your pain and suffering.”