Cutting Into Indiana Funeral Procession Can Bring Fines

It seems like we are all always in a hurry. Whether we’re rushing to work, to an appointment, or just to get to the store and back home quickly, everyone always seems to be pressed for time. However, there are times when our need to rush is superseded by our need to be respectful.

Indiana Funeral Home Urges Drivers to Show Respect

Recently, one Indiana funeral home shared one of those moments. Rainey Funeral Home in Dale was escorting a woman to the church where her services were scheduled. The woman was a veteran, a former law enforcement officer, a wife, a mother, a daughter, a sister, a friend. As her family followed behind the hearse, three vehicles sped past the procession and cut right into the line, directly in front of her grieving loved ones.

We live in a fast-paced world and everyone is often in a hurry; however, moments like these are heartbreaking and a reminder of how important it is to slow down, pay attention, and show respect. A funeral procession isn’t just a line of cars — it’s a family walking through one of the hardest days of their lives. Taking a few moments to pull over or wait is a small act of kindness that speaks volumes. – Rainey Funeral Home

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Cutting Through a Funeral Line Is Illegal in Indiana

Not only is what happened deeply disrespectful and unsafe, but in many states it's illegal. According to Indiana law, it is considered a Class C infraction and can result in a fine of up to $500, as well as suspension of driving privileges in some instances.

What Indiana Law Says About Funeral Processions

IC 9-21-13-2
"Driving between vehicles of a funeral procession; prohibition; exceptions
Sec. 2. A person who drives a vehicle that is not in a funeral procession may not drive the vehicle between the vehicles of the funeral procession, except when:

(1) authorized to do so by a traffic officer; or
(2) the vehicle is an authorized emergency vehicle giving audible signal by siren."

Pulling Over Is Not Required but It Is Respectful

Unlike many other states, Indiana law does not require other drivers to pull over to the side of the road when a funeral procession passes. However, it is generally considered to be the respectful thing to do.