Imagine you are cycling on your way to work or school, seeking an efficient route to your destination. The roads, bustling with traffic, seem daunting. Seeking a safer route, you consider the sidewalk—a seemingly safer alternative. However, you may wonder: is this choice legal
The laws regarding sidewalk cycling are not always clear, and as a cyclist in Florida, you must be aware of where you can legally ride. Here’s what you need to know about Florida’s bicycle laws.
Bikes Have the Right to Ride on the Sidewalk
In Florida, bicycles are granted the unique privilege of riding on sidewalks. However, this right comes with an important responsibility: cyclists must yield to pedestrians. Bike riders need to be vigilant and courteous, using a bell or another sound device to alert pedestrians when passing
What Other Traffic Laws Do Bicyclists Need to Obey?
Despite their human-powered nature, bicycles in Florida are legally considered vehicles. This classification bestows upon cyclists the same rights and responsibilities as drivers of vehicles. The ability to ride on a sidewalk sets bicycles apart from their motorized counterparts, but cyclists must also adhere to important traffic laws when riding on the road
These laws include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Bicycles must be ridden on the right side of the road, in the same direction as other vehicles.
- Cyclists are required to obey all traffic signs and signals, including those at railway crossings.
- On one-way roads and in traffic circles, cyclists must travel in the same direction as other vehicles.
- The laws prohibiting driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol apply equally to cyclists. Additionally, the possession of an open container of alcohol is illegal for bicycle riders.
What Bicycle-Specific Laws Does Florida Enforce?
In addition to broader traffic laws, Florida also enforces several bicycle-specific laws to promote road safety. For example, helmet use is mandatory for cyclists and passengers under 16 years of age. A bicycle must also be equipped with a front headlight visible from at least 500 feet, a rear red reflector, and a red light visible from at least 600 feet if ridden between sunset and sunrise. Additionally, bicycles must have brakes capable of stopping the bike within 25 feet from a speed of 10 miles per hour on dry pavement.
Additional bicycle-specific laws include the following:
- A bicycle should not carry more than one person at a time unless it is designed and equipped for additional passengers.
- Bicycles with seats or carriers for children can only be used for children under four years of age or those weighing under 40 pounds.
- Bicycles should not ride more than two abreast on roads, lanes, or sidewalks and must ride single file when necessary to avoid obstructing traffic or pedestrians.
Contact a Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today
If you are involved in a bicycle accident, it can be difficult to know what to do next. In Florida, the no-fault insurance system complicates matters, often leaving cyclists unsure of their legal standing. In these situations, it is essential to consult with an attorney who specializes in bicycle accident claims.
A bicycle accident lawyer in Riverview can guide you through the complexities of insurance claims and legal proceedings, ensuring that your rights are protected. Contact an attorney as soon as possible after your accident to learn more about your next steps.