Idaho House Panel Plans To Debate Bike Safety Law

A bill to increase the separation between cars and bikers narrowly won House introduction, after a majority agreed to at least talk about making cycling in Idaho safer.

But Tuesday’s State Affairs vote margin was razor thin, with nine representatives supporting it and eight opposed.

The measure requires passing motorists to keep a 3-foot distance between bicyclists – and bikers to ride single-file, stay to the right and avoid causing traffic holdups.

The Spokesman-Review (http://bit.ly/ycYHx ) reports Rep. Roy Lacey’s bill covers pedestrians, joggers, wheelchairs and horses, too.

Rep. Erik Simpson of Idaho Falls says added protections for cyclists are in order, since he’s been passed at close range numerous times.

But Rep. Lynn Luker of Boise argued the 3-foot distance isn’t manageable, pointing out some bikers aggressively block traffic.

—

Information from: The Spokesman-Review, http://www.spokesman.com