Cyclists want it, the government is considering it, but West Australian drivers simply aren't ready for controversial new cycling laws.

Introduced in the US 35 years ago, the 'Idaho Stop' gives cyclists powers drivers don't have.

Put simply, riders are allowed to roll through a stop sign and take off while a traffic light is still red.

Western Australia's peak cycling body say the Idaho Stop is a safer and more energy efficient way for riders to use the roads.

But can West Australians handle two sets of rules for the same street? I don't think so.

WA drivers are the riskiest in the country with 75 percent admitting to dangerous driving.

We are also the most likely to pick up the phone while behind the wheel, according to a recent study by Finder.com.au.

Most Perth motorists will also admit we're horrendous at merging.

On top of that, there's already a hostile relationship between cyclists and motorists, with the rage often spilling over online.

In theory, the idea makes sense.

It takes a bike - powered by its lycra wearing owner - much longer to accelerate from a complete stop compared to its horse powered alternative.

It means a rider, who already has momentum, will cross the intersection in less time and use less energy doing so. The faster they cross, the less time they spend on the wrong side of the road and in the path of oncoming cars.

The trouble is, it's not that simple practice.

Stop signs and traffic lights are in place for a reason and a consistent understanding of what they mean is important.

The state’s Motor Trade Association has labelled the idea ridiculous, saying there is one road system and there should be one set of rules for all users.

Research into the law in Idaho suggests it has decreased the number of cycling accidents on roads by 14 percent.

Variations to the rule - where the changes only apply to stop signs - have been adopted in Paris and some other US states but that is all.

WestCycle CEO, Matthew Fulton, says the Idaho Stop law is a good idea but admits it won't work if the community isn't ready.

And we'll leave the final word to WA Police Minister, Michelle Roberts, who says anything that can make the journey safer for cyclists is "certainly worth considering" but such a big change would require "a lot of public education".