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.
Provisions of the new bill:
- Bicycle Lane is defined (current Indiana law does not mention bike lanes)
- Motorists and Bicyclists ‘rules of the road’ are laid out for bike lanes
- Motorists may not block the lane and must yield to bicycles
- When on a roadway, cyclists must use the lane except when it is unsafe or when positioning themselves for a turn
- Bicyclists are allowed to proceed through a red light if their bike will not trip the traffic control sensor after a reasonable wait
- Penalties for persons injuring a bicyclist are clearly spelled out
- Motorist must allow a minimum of three feet when passing a cyclist. And they may pass a cyclist in a no-passing zone, if it safe to do so
- Right turns may be signaled by extending the right arm
- Side reflectors are required at night. Headlights and tail lights may be either steady or flashing, but tail lights continue to be optional.
- A cyclist has all the rights of pedestrians, but must yield to pedestrians
- A bell is no longer required, and a whistle is now allowed
- A few minor provisions that are mainly ‘clean up’ of outmoded language
- Definition of a bicycle is improved
- Cyclists may stand and pedal
- Child carriers are clearly legal if they are firmly attached
- A braked wheel is no longer required to ‘skid’
- Outmoded terms (roller skates, coaster, street car ) are modernized
- Bicycles are prohibited from Interstate Highways and local governments may prohibit them on non-Interstate freeways.
- Bicycles may not travel two abreast on state and federal highways: single file only.
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