Did you know that Stop as Yield, also known as Idaho Stop is a proven method that protects cyclists without requiring new technology, expensive infrastructure, or even requiring drivers to change their behavior? It sounds too good to be true, but it's not. When Idaho implemented "Stop as Yield" they saw bicyclist injuries from traffic crashes drop by 14.5%. When Delaware did, they saw traffic crashes involving bicyclists at stop sign intersections fall by 23%! Read this fact sheet from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for more examples and data regarding why Stop as Yield should be the law. Eleven states have passed “stop as yield” laws, and we want New York to be number twelve!
Stop as Yield is a simple change that legally allows cyclists to treat stop signs as yield signs, and stop lights as stop signs. Enabling cyclists to enter an intersection before a green light gets them out of truck drivers’ blind spots and past cars blocking bike lanes—two major causes of cyclist deaths, and allowing cyclists to yield at intersections gets us out of dangerous intersections faster!
Stop as Yield passed in the NYS Assembly in 2023, but unfortunately did not pass the NYS Senate last session. It remains a legislative priority for NYBC and for the NYS Safe Streets Coalition.
If you want to help, here are some things you can do:
- Write to
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Chair of the Assembly Transportation Committee. - Write to
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to thank her for sponsoring the bill in the Senate! - Write to
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , to thank her for sponsoring the bill in the Assembly! - Click on this link to see if your State Senator is a co-sponsor. If so, write and thank them, if not, write to encourage them to co-sponsor! (Not sure who your NYS Senator is? Use this tool to find out).
- Click on this link to see if you Assembly Member is a co-sponsor. If so, write and thank them, if not, write to encourage them to co-sponsor! (Not sure who your NYS Assembly Member is? Use this tool to find out). You can use this coalition letter as a model.
- Be part of our network! Individuals and organizations who are interested in bicycle/pedestrian issues, disability rights, environmental sustainability, safety, seniors, and many others all have a stake in helping to pass this legislation! Reach out to us at
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to see how you can help. - Support our work by making a donation to NYBC's Advocacy efforts!