On January 1, 2020, new rules go into effect in Oregon that will allow people riding bicycles to
yield at stop signs or flashing red beacons instead of stopping completely, under certain
conditions. People riding bicycles must still completely stop at a solid red traffic signal.
The new rules were created in part due to the physical effort required to stop and start a bicycle.
Oregon, Idaho, Delaware, and Arkansas have enacted laws recognizing this difference and
specifying the conditions under which a cyclist may slow and yield instead of coming to a
complete stop.
The new Oregon law requires that people riding bicycles approaching a stop sign or flashing red
light slow to a reasonable speed, yield to anyone already in the intersection, and not approach
others in the intersection so closely it would create a hazard. People riding bicycles must stop
for people crossing the street, make every effort to avoid an accident, and follow the directions
of a police officer or flagger.
The full details of the new law are found in Oregon Senate Bill 998 enacted this past August.
This updates Oregon Revised Statute 811.260 and 811.265. Violations to the rule are
considered improper entry to an intersection – a Class D traffic violation subject with fines of
$115, or $225 if in a work zone or school zone.
