Dead Red Indiana Law Give Motorcyclists and Bicyclists Alternative to Breaking the Law
In March of 2014, Indiana became the 15th state to add the “Dead Red” law to their books. Indiana Representative, Mike Karickhoff of Kokomo, wrote House Bill No. 1080 that provides:
“…the operator [of a motorcycle, motorized bicycle, motor scooter, or bicycle] may proceed through the intersection on a steady red signal only if the operator:
(i) comes to a complete stop at the intersection for at least one hundred twenty (120) seconds; and
(ii) exercises due caution as provided by law, otherwise treats the traffic control signal as a stop sign, and determines that it is safe to proceed.”
The Indiana General Assembly passed the law 84-10.
Few Options for Cyclists Prior to Dead Red Law
Prior to the “dead red” law, when lightweight motorized and non-motorized vehicles failed to trigger a left-turn signal, the operator had one of three choices: 1) wait until a larger vehicle pulled behind them, tripping the scale; 2) make a right-hand turn and return to proceed through the intersection; or 3) ignore the traffic signal altogether and turn left on a red.
An Educated Public May Reduce Motorcycle Accidents in Indiana
ABATE of Indiana (The American Bikers Aimed Toward Education) strives to educate responsible cyclists on motorcycle safety. And because accidents involving motorcycles are often caused by other drivers who admittedly fail to see the cyclist, ABATE seeks to educate all drivers about motorcycle awareness. May is Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Month. On May 5, ABATE of Indiana, along with many other civic organizations, will kick off Motorcycle Awareness Month by hosting an event on the Circle to bring attention to motorcycle awareness.
Personal Injury, Motorcycle and Bicycle Accident Attorneys with Experience
The defenses used by defendant insurance companies to minimize their financial loss and the potential jury bias that occurs when litigating a motorcycle or bicycle injury claim is good reason to seek the assistance of an attorney experienced in motorcycle and bicycle injury cases. If you, or someone you know has been injured or killed in an accident involving a motorcycle, moped or bicycle, call Charlie of Ward & Ward Law Firm, a motorcycle accident attorney in Indianapolis, IN with experience in pursuing claims on behalf of cyclists, at 317-639-9501 today for a free analysis of your claim.
cpw@wardlawfirm.com
Ward & Ward Law Firm 728 S Meridian St Indianapolis, IN 46225 317-639-9501
