Legal Questions

[ridebikeme]

Definitely "no" to number one. But here in Maine, it is legal to pass on a double yellow line if you are passing a cyclist. This law was passed when the three foot law took effect.

[OakLeaf]

these questions are very state specific. Since the OP is in Washington, just from a reading of the statutes, IANAWL etc. etc.,

the answer to #1 is YES, right turn on red, including a red arrow, after stop . RCW 46.61.055(3)(c).

the answer to #2 (as in many other states) is it depends on whether case law has determined that a bicycle is considered an "obstruction." RCW 46.61.130, 46.61.100(1)(b). Consult an experienced traffic lawyer on that one if it's important to you, but as a practical matter, I can't imagine the cops hassling someone for passing a bicyclist safely, as long as they yield appropriately to oncoming traffic. Cops themselves do it all the time where I live.

[sfa]

#1 is maybe. Depends on where you are. As Oakleaf said, it's legal in Washington. It's legal in my home state too, but you very rarely see red arrows--green arrows turn into solid round red lights, so there's no confusion. More info here: http://www.johncletheroe.org/usa_can/driving/right.htm

I also think Oakleaf is right about #2. Legal or not, I doubt anyone would get in trouble for it, but if something happened as a result (collision with oncoming traffic) then they could be cited for it.

Sarah

[Melalvai]

Both of those are legal in Missouri. Some red lights are marked "no right on red" but otherwise yes. I believe the yellow line one passed last year.