OLYMPIA -- Motorcyclists could turn left at an intersection if the traffic light doesn't give them the green arrow after a complete cycle under a bill that received strong support from the Senate.

SB 5141 would change state traffic laws to account for a problem some motorcyclists have at intersections controlled by some sensors triggered by weight. They don't weigh enough to register on the sensor, and the left-turn arrow never turns green.  

Sen. Jim Hargrove, a Hoquiam Democrat who rides a motorcycle, said he's experienced the problem and joked that some Priuses also don't weigh enough to register on some sensors.

A motorcyclist would have to weight through a complete cycle of lights changing for all directions before making a left-turn when clear. The bill passed on a 46-2 vote.  The same bill passed the Senate last session but didn't receive a final vote in the House.

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