Generally, the rights and duties of bicyclists are the same as those for other users of the public and private roads, such as drivers of motor vehicles. For example, all must use reasonable care, signal turns, yield to vehicles with the right-of-way, obey traffic signals, etc.
However, there are some special rules under Indiana bicycle laws, as follows:
Special Rules for Bicycles
- Riding on the sidewalk may or may not be allowed in Indiana depending on local city or town ordinances.
- A bicycle must have a permanent and regular seat.
- It must not carry a person who is not seated on an attached and regular seat.
- The operator must be seated.
- No passengers. The bicycle must not carry two persons unless it is a bicycle built for two.
- It may not be pulled by another vehicle.
- Nothing may be carried that prevents the bicyclist from keeping both hands on the handlebars.
- A bicycle operated ½ hour before sunset to ½ hour before sunrise must have a front white light visible for 500 feet and a rear red light or reflector visible for 500 feet.
- It must have a brake strong enough to make the wheels skid on dry pavement.
- In addition, the state or a local authority may prohibit bicycles on roadways but must post signs prohibiting bicycles.
- Bicycles may not be ridden more than 2 next to each other.
- A parent of a child may not knowingly permit a child to violate the rules that apply to bicycles.
Defensive Riding Is Critical
An observation that applies to motorcycles as well as bicycles: People see what they expect to see and tend not to see what they do not expect to see.
Consequently, motorists at times do not see bicycles or motorcycles even when they “are there.”
Bicyclists and motorcyclists need to make themselves as observable as possible, by using lights and colors and by the way they drive. It is not enough that they drive safely. To protect themselves, they must anticipate that motorists may not see them, and they should drive defensively. It does not help the person killed in an accident that it was not his fault.
After a Bicycle Accident, Get the Help You Need
If you’ve been involved in an accident while riding a bicycle, it’s important to understand how bicycle laws affect your rights. You may be entitled to compensation, and determining liability often requires an experienced legal team.
At McGlone Law, we help injured bicyclists understand their legal options, protect their rights, and pursue justice. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crash, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Reach out today for a free consultation.
