HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) - Pennsylvania motorcyclists would be permitted to proceed through an intersection when a red light fails to turn green under a bill pending in the state legislature.

Rep. Stephen Bloom (R-Cumberland) said vehicle detection systems used at many intersections are not always triggered by motorcycles because of their smaller size, and riders often become stuck at red lights.

Bloom's proposal, House Bill 950, would give motorcyclists and pedalcyclists the option to proceed with caution.

"If the vehicle detection system fails to recognize the motorcycle and the rider has come to a full and complete stop, the rider must then make sure it is safe to continue, and only then would they be able to lawfully proceed with caution through the intersection," Bloom said in a statement.

Bloom said the purpose of his bill is not to give motorcyclists a free pass, but to ensure a safe and legal option to avoid waiting at a locked red light.

He said the issue is more common than many people realize, especially on rural roads or during late hours when it could be some time before a heavier vehicle comes along to finally trip the unresponsive light.