Google “how to change traffic lights” and you will find numerous sources of information. There are techniques that really work, for example the use of a mobile infrared transmitter (MIRT), and others that don’t like the universal remote control method. One thing that is consistent is that there is only one method that is legal for everyone in all 50 states.

A MIRT works by sending a signal to a traffic light that will turn the light green or turn all the lights red. This technology is only authorized for use by emergency vehicles. If you do not drive a police car, fire truck, or ambulance, it is not legal for you to own or operate a MIRT. In Michigan the penalties for using a MIRT are pretty stiff and I assume they are similar for all states.

Michigan MIRT Law…

• Misdemeanor and up to 90 days in jail and $5,000 fine for unlawful POSSESSION of MIRT.
• FELONY charge with up to TWO YEARS in jail and a fine of 10,000 for illicit SALE of purchase of a MIRT.
• One FELONY charge with up to FIVE years in jail and a $15,000 fine for people using a MIRT that resulted in a traffic accident
• One FELONY charge with up to 15 years in jail and a $25,000 fine for use of a MIRT resulting in death.

In fact, any device used by an individual to disrupt the normal operation of a traffic signal is illegal in all states. With such harsh sanctions why risk it when there is a legal solution. Fortunately, a motorcycle accessory known as the Traffic Light Changer is perfectly legal and works very well.

Most traffic lights use electromagnetic sensors buried under the road surface to determine if a vehicle is present. They usually appear as large black outlined rectangles on the road surface. Left turn lanes are the most likely to encounter these sensors, but some secondary roads also have lights that won’t change until a car is present. These sensors must be sensitive enough to detect a car in them but not activate when a vehicle is in the next lane.

A traffic light changer does not alter the normal operation of any traffic device. It simply helps to inform the traffic light sensors that you are there waiting. Frankly, there are not enough pieces of steel in a motorcycle to properly activate the traffic light at all times. A traffic light changer simply makes your motorcycle appear much larger to light sensors. The best part is that this form of traffic light changer is completely legal in all 50 states.

Illinois Vehicle Code 625 ILCS 5/12-601.1 states, in part:

(e) This Section does not prohibit the use by motorcycles of electronic or magnetic safety devices designed to enable traffic control signal systems to recognize or detect motorcycles.

So if you or someone you know is tired of being stuck at traffic lights for what seems like forever, get yourself a traffic light changer today. They fit on any motorcycle, install in minutes, can be hidden off-site, and are completely self-contained. It is a perfect economical and LEGAL solution to a common motorcyclist problem.