Public should be aware of new motorcycle and moped law
As spring approaches, the public needs to be aware of a new law, the Putnam County Prosecutor's Office says.
Changes to Indiana traffic laws created three classes of motor-driven cycles (MDC): Motorcycles, Class A motor-driven cycles and Class B motor-driven cycles. The three classes come with different license and insurance requirements, as well as operating restrictions, said Tim Bookwalter, prosecuting attorney for Putnam County.
"Citizens should become familiar with the change in laws to avoid traffic violations," Prosecutor Bookwalter said. "Knowledge of Indiana's motor-driven cycles laws keep you legal on the street and help avoid a traffic stop while riding for pleasure or on your way to work."
A major change is the new Class B for motor-driven cycles of 55 cc (cubic centimeters) or lower. Class B operators need a valid driver's license or driver's permit (no endorsement required) or an unexpired state of Indiana issued identification card with a Class B MDC endorsement. A person with a Class B MDC is allowed to operate their vehicle while their operator's license is suspended, so long as they have a Class B MDC endorsement on an unexpired Indiana issued ID card.
Other regulations specific to the Class B motor-driven cycle include:
* A driver must be age 15 or older.
* The driver must operate the MDC near right-hand edge of roadway unless passing another vehicle or preparing for a left turn.
* A Class B MDC may not be operated at more than
35 mph.
* A Class B MDC may not be operated on an interstate highway or a sidewalk.
All motor-driven cycles (MDC), regardless of size, must be registered and the driver must have some form of license or endorsed ID to be operated on a public highway.
No matter which type of motor-driven cycle you drive, the following always apply:
* Helmet required for those under 18.
* No texting and driving.
* Must operate in a position astride the seat.
* All motor-driven cycles must display a license plate.
* Headlamps must be illuminated at all times while operating.
For more information on motor-driven cycles, go to the local license branch or the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles website: www.in.gov/bmv.