[IndianaTrails] Road Requirements for Byways and Bike Routes

[Morris, Steve]

Phil, in dealing with liability, one always wants to make sure
facilities are properly designed and maintained for the intended use.
There is lot of good information on how to plan and design on-road
bicycle facilities.  I do not know much about on-road pedestrian
facilities, but there may be some information out there.  Check out the
resources on the following websites:
 
www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/bikeped/publications.htm
www.pedbikeinfo.org
www.bikewalk.org
 
Another way to limit liability is make sure people who use your
facilities know there are risks involved and provide them with
information that could help protect them. La Porte County has a bikeway
system with printed maps.  If you want me to send one of these maps,
please provide a mailing address.  These printed maps warn users that
they will be sharing the road with motorists and there is a section on
the map that provides safety reminders.  Then they also add the
following disclaimer:
 
"Bicyclists in Indiana have all the rights, privileges and
responsibilities of a motorist.  The LaPorte County Convention &
Visitors Bureau (LPCCVB) does not affect the state laws which are
applicable to cyclists in Indiana.  The LPCCVB does not suggest or imply
a safe route.  Nor does its existence create any remedy or liability
which did not otherwise exist under the law.  Bicyclists utilizing the
LPCCVB and county resources assume the dangers inherent in riding
bicycles on or along streets, roads and pathways."
 
I am copying Michael O'Loughlin at INDOT with my response.  Michael is
the State Bicycle & Pedestrian Coordinator.  Michael should be able to
add to these comments.  Hope this helps some.
 
Steve Morris
DNR Division of Outdoor Recreation
Ph: 317-232-4751
  

	-----Original Message-----
	From: list-bounces at indianatrails.org
[mailto:list-bounces at indianatrails.org] On Behalf Of Phil Prescott
	Sent: Saturday, March 10, 2007 8:50 AM
	To: list at indianatrails.org
	Subject: [IndianaTrails] Road Requirements for Byways and Bike
Routes
	
	
	Recently, I proposed a Scenic Byway route to our County
Commissioners.  Essentially, this is a route that uses existing well
paved county roads.  Uses could be for pedestrian, bike and obviously
motorized traffic.  The commissioners asked if the county would incur
any liability in promoting the route.  Are there any road width
requirements for byways?  
	 
	Along the same lines are there any road width or other
requirements for designating a road as a bike route?
	 
	Any resources or thoughts on these questions would be greatly
appreciated.
	 
	 
	Phil Prescott
	philprescott at sugardog.com
	White County Trails and Byways

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