Most of the Indiana state bicycle laws were written at a time when automobiles were the exception, horses were still common, and bicycles were somewhere in between. Many of our laws are archaic and don't adequately describe or address the issues, dangers, and proper policies for cyclists. Did you know that, according to the state laws, you can't stand when pedaling? Or let go of your handle bars to drink from a water bottle? Both are currently prohibited.
Indiana Senate Bill 553 attempted to update and modernize the current state laws, but died in committee during the Spring session despite wide-ranging support from cyclists and law makers. Hopefully, Senator Broden and State Representative Dvorak will once again lend bipartisan support to this important bill during the next session.
Had it passed, the new bill could have modernized Indiana bicycle law and propelled the state to the forefront of bicycle legislation. With provisions to address bicycling on modern roads and bike paths, cyclists would have enjoyed common sense laws. Even more importantly, both motorists and cyclists would have a realistic set of legal guidelines that define proper behavior on our shared roads.
Contact your local State Representative to voice your support for the passage of Senate Bill 553. You may find your State Representative's contact information on the Indiana State website.
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