Several European cities are rolling out separate traffic lights for cyclists, while Paris officials are test-piloting a strategy to let cyclists legally run red lights. Here's their logic:

According to officials and public documents about the law, the goal is to reduce bike backups clogging intersections. Cyclists are slower with less control as they accelerate from a stop, making them more likely to swerve or fall into a car lane.

Likewise, a crowded gaggle of them waiting for a green light means they will pack closer up against cars in more dangerous proximity once everyone starts moving at different speeds. Plus, drivers of cars densely packed together waiting for a light may have lower visibility of a cyclist up ahead in a lane over. In all, when there are too many cyclists waiting at a red it becomes a danger.

Of course, this strategy would never work in Seattle because we're so unique and special and blah blah blah. Need I say more?

Helmut tip to Max.