Jerry Hinnefeld
Henry Scott
judithrobert
Jeff Nixa
memooney
Adam Bee
bspitzer
Nate Barnett
Paul Taylor
Danny Graber
lhierony
Phil G-E
petercolan
Jim Moffitt
Judy Lee
2wheelpeddler
dickkuehl
nimbabike
SB0361 – New bicycle bill for 2010 is introduced
Posted by Paul Taylor on January 18, 2010
In 2009 a bill was introduced and passed both chambers of the legislature, but died in the reconciliation process.
A similar bill, SB0361 has been introduced by Sen. John Broden. This bill is nearly identical to the 2009 bill as passed by the House. The bill has most of the provisions requested by cyclists, but also contains some objectionable provisions. In all, most cyclists agree that it is a giant step forward, and can win enough votes to become law.
Here are some links with more information:
A summary of the key provisions.
The full version of the bill from the Indiana General Assembly Website.
The ‘Action List’ which gives the current status of the bill.
There are three issues of special interest:
- The section prohibiting carrying a bundle or personal item does not appear this year. It is a very minor issue but caused a lot of confusion last year, and the study team agreed to let sleeping dogs lie.
- Motorist may pass a cyclist in a no-passing zone if it is safe to do so. The team feels that this will eliminate a lot of the resistance to the 3-foot passing rule. The 3-foot rule was the big sticking point last year.
- The provision to limit two-abreast riding on state and federal highways is still there, even though the team tried to eliminate it. Again, this is a minor issue since few riders will ride two-abreast on these highways.
- A new provision popped up: local authorities have the ability to prohibit bikes from non-Interstate freeways. This is pretty redundant, and of little concern to bikers.
- The ‘rules of the road’ for bike lanes has a small change that we think has big benefits: a cyclist is exempted from using the bike lane if it is unsafe. While the law doesn’t define the term, the team felt the cyclist was best able to decide what constitutes unsafe.
In summary, the bill has more good points than bad points, and in my opinion, deserves the full support of Indiana cyclists.
Joe Mizereck said
While cycling is safe, sharing space on our roads is becoming hazardous and the growing number of cyclists must find ways to protect themselves. So I commend State Senator John Broden for being a leader and moving forward to secure a 3 foot clearance law to protect Indiana cyclists. Fourteen states have seen the wisdom and value of having such a law on the books that requires motorists to give cyclists at least 3 feet clearance when passing from the rear. The value of this law isn’t found in giving motorists tickets, but rather, using the law as a tool to help educate motorists on what is considered a safe passing distance–at least 3 feet please.
Indeed, changing motorist behavior will save lives, but it is also important to understand that changing cyclist behavior is where we can make the greatest impact on cyclist safety because cyclists, not motorists have a very strong personal interest in modifying their behavior to be visible and predicable…the keys to safe cycling. Bottom line, cyclists can solve a majority of their own problems by riding visibly and predictably.
For those who will claim that the law is only a “feel good” and unenforceable law I say hogwash. Energetic law enforcement agencies who understand their mission to protect and serve the members of their communities waste no time in rolling up their sleeves and finding ways to do their job. And some of the best do it without issuing one single ticket—pure education.
The question is really very simple: will a 3 foot law save Indiana cyclists’ lives? The answer is, YES. And here’s the great news: making cycling safer can encourage non-cyclists to give the sport a try. As more people appreciate and enjoy cycling, we improve safety for everyone. And when that happens we can all feel good.
So Indiana, do the right thing…make it happen. Make “at least 3 feet clearance” the law—please. Call, write and visit your state representatives and encourage them to join Senator Broden in his work to save lives.
Good luck,
Joe Mizereck
Founder, The “3 Feet Please” Campaign
ron melton said
I support this measure. I have been harassed by motorists, especially by drivers of pick up trucks. I even got harassed by a ‘redneck’ St. Joe County cop on Bittersweet Road. He pulled me over with his flashing lights and siren and said I was obstructing traffic and threatened to impound my bike if he seen me on the road again. It is worrisome now that these types will be able to take their gun to work because they may now start aiming at us.