A3986 Fahy/ S2643 May (“Idaho Stop”) – amend the Vehicle & Traffic Law (V&TL) to allow cyclists to enter an intersection if there’s no cross traffic
Overview
In 2019, 27 NYC cyclists were killed—more than half by commercial vehicles. Empowering cyclists to enter signaled intersections before lights turn green would let them avoid getting hooked by turning vehicles and hit-from-behind when bike lanes are obstructed.
Allowing cyclists to yield at a stop sign would shorten their exposure in the conflict zone. It would also facilitate DOTs’ routing of bike networks along secondary roads.
In March, 2022,NHTSA concluded that stop-as-yield (“Idaho Stop”) laws enhanced cyclist safety in states where they were evaluated.
Recommendation:
- The legislation should be passed and enacted into law.
A4346 Steck / Harckham S1724 (“3-Foot Safe Passing Law”) – amend the V&TL to require motorists—outside NYC—to maintain a minimum 3 ft safe distance while passing cyclists
Overview
The Department of Transportation considers 3 ft as the minimum passing distance to provide adequate space for bicyclists to safely travel on the road—and a distance easily understood by motorists. The bill exempts New York City as its population-dense environment creates unique challenges to implementation.
S2643 / A3986.
Senate Bill S2643
2023-2024 Legislative Session