With its gorgeous landscapes and pleasant weather, Florida is a great place for cyclists. Unfortunately, it is also the state with the highest number of bicycle fatalities in the nation. If you plan on exploring any of the state’s cities on your bike, it is essential that you understand and follow Florida’s bicycle regulations to ensure your safety on the road.
Rules of the road (and sidewalk)
In Florida, you have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers. This means:
- You need to follow all traffic signals and signs, as well as defensive driving practices.
- The same driving under influence (DUI) laws that apply to motor vehicle drivers also apply to cyclists, so never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Holding onto a car or any other vehicle while riding is illegal.
If there are bike lanes, cyclists must ride within them. If none, they should ride as close as possible to the right side of the road, except when passing another bike or vehicle, preparing for a left turn or avoiding hazards. Cyclists can also ride on sidewalks, but they must give pedestrians right-of-way and always provide an audible signal before passing to avoid accidents.
Proper equipment and helmets are nonnegotiable
Florida law requires cyclists under 16 years old to wear a helmet that meets safety standards. While not mandatory for adults, wearing a helmet significantly reduces the risk of head injuries and is highly recommended. Children under four years old or weighing 40 pounds or less must be in a secure seat or age-appropriate carrier.
When riding at night, you must equip your bicycle with a front white light visible from at least 500 feet away and a rear red light and reflector visible from 600 feet. These lights help increase visibility to drivers and other road users in low-light conditions. Bicycles must also have functional brakes that can cause the wheels to skid on dry, level pavement, ensuring safe stopping distances.
Accidents can still happen
If you or a loved one is involved in a bicycle accident and suffers injuries, it’s crucial to seek legal advice from a personal injury attorney who can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.