Iowa's roads should support all users

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This article first appeared in INHF's Winter 2008 magazine.

Lisa Hein, INHF Program and Planning Director

by Lisa Hein

Some Iowa counties are asking the state legislature to further reduce their liability for roadway accidents involving non-motorized modes of transportation. This proposal was prompted by Crawford County’s out-of-court settlement involving a RAGBRAI® rider who crashed and tragically died after hitting a large crack in the road. Iowa law already exempts governments from liability for injuries or damages resulting from risks inherent to bicycling, if the cyclist knew or reasonably should have known of the risk.

Lawmakers must be careful about sending the wrong message to Iowans: that recreation and active transportation issues are not important, that bicyclists’ safety need not be protected under the law, or that bikers don’t belong on public rights-of-way.

INHF has devoted many years and dollars to helping convert historic railroad corridors to trails for safe bicycling, walking and other forms of active transportation. These public greenways draw tourists, improve quality-of-life for residents, protect natural corridors and promote healthy living. However, trails are only part of the solution. For bicycling and walking to be alternative transportation — in addition to recreation — public roadways must link trails and safely accommodate non-motorized traffic.

Streets and roads are owned, maintained and paid for by everyone, not just by drivers. We need lawmakers to provide the revenues to keep our roadways safe — for all Iowans!

Lisa Hein is INHF’s Program and Planning Director and a board member of the Iowa Bicycle Coalition.

For more information, e-mail Cathy Engstrom, Director of Communications, or call (515) 288-1846.