Olthoff, Slager: New laws in effect for Hoosier motorists

STATEHOUSE (July 10, 2018) — State Reps. Julie Olthoff (R-Crown Point) and Hal Slager (R-Schererville) remind motorists of two new laws that recently went into effect to keep Indiana roadways safe.

“Under a new law, fire departments can now offer free vehicle emissions tests to Hoosier drivers,” Olthoff said. “Since carbon monoxide is an odorless gas, it is almost impossible to know if you have a leak somewhere in your vehicle without proper testing.”

Olthoff said with many new laws effective July 1, it is important to stay up to date with those impacting local Hoosiers, including new safety measures for motorists:

• Distracting Headlight Colors – A new law requires Indiana drivers to have white or amber headlights on their vehicles. Colored lights like red, blue or green are not allowed on the front of vehicles, and backup lights should also be white or amber. Taillights must be red. This ensures colored lights are reserved for emergency vehicles only, eliminating confusion on the roadways. (Senate Enrolled Act 266)
• Free Carbon Monoxide Tests – A new law allows Hoosiers to request free carbon monoxide tests for inside their vehicle at local fire departments. Savannah’s Law is named after an Indiana high school student who died in a car crash after the deadly gas infiltrated her vehicle due to a faulty exhaust system. (SEA 100)

Slager said the summer travel months can mean more traffic than usual, and urged motorists to stay vigilant.

“Between construction and travel, our roadways are busy, making it especially important that Hoosier drivers take extra precautions and pay attention when driving,” Slager said.

Visit iga.in.gov to learn more about these state laws and many others that went into effect on July 1.

-30-

State Rep. Julie Olthoff represents House District 19,
which includes portions of Lake and Porter counties.

A high-resolution photo of Olthoff can be found here.

State Rep. Hal Slager (R-Schererville) represents House District 15,
which includes portions of Lake County.

A high-resolution photo of Slager can be found here.