Scott Martin

I once got a ticket for running a red light that didn’t change for bikes, so I’m happy to hear that Pleasanton, California, is adopting a new radar-type device that enables traffic signals to definitively recognize cyclists.

According to the Contra Costa Times, Pleasanton is the only city in the U.S. using the “Intersector,” a microwave motion and presence sensor that monitors an intersection. It can differentiate between cars and bikes crossing the road and extends or activates the traffic light if a cyclist is detected.

The city still uses video cameras and pavement sensors to try to detect riders, but video performance can be hampered by fog and wind, and sensors may not work if cyclists aren’t directly over the unit or their bike frames aren’t metal. (Yes, kids, some bikes are still made of this material, pronounced “me-tuhl.”)

Local cyclists hail the new technology. And Pleasanton officials say they’ve heard from at least 20 jurisdictions, ranging from the San Francisco Bay area to as far away as Memphis, Tennessee, that want to know more about the project.

Let’s hope the Intersector catches on. Meantime, I humbly suggest some companion technology to make our streets even safer:

- The Caffeinator. Detects when motorist is operating vehicle while holding a cup of coffee. Traffic light remains red until driver puts down the java.

- The Blabinator. Knows when driver is talking on the phone and won’t let light turn green till he hangs up. If he’s not using a hands-free device, Blabinator reads the vehicle license plate and emails him a ticket.

- The Groominator. Senses when driver is flossing, applying makeup or shaving. Activates tire spikes embedded in the asphalt because this person is obviously too stupid to be operating a motor vehicle.

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