Missouri just got a "dead red law" for cyclists & motorcyclists. If the light doesn't change, after 3 minutes we can proceed when it is safe. 3 minutes is a long wait. Usually a car comes up before 3 minutes passes and triggers the actuator. There's only a few intersections that I haven't figured out how to trigger the actuator with my bike.

I stop at all lights and signs. I'm setting an example for other cyclists, improving the reputation of all cyclists, and protecting my hide legally. If I'm ever in a wreck, a history of prudent or imprudent behavior can help or hurt my case. Maybe no one is watching--or maybe someone is.

Oh--and also protecting my hide literally. But I've found the safety card doesn't fly. No one stops at every red light because it is safe. Everyone always has a situation where "it doesn't matter"!