Understanding Bicycle and Pedestrian Laws in Florida
Navigating the roadways as a bicyclist or pedestrian in Florida involves understanding the rights and responsibilities accorded to you by state law. The Stuart, Florida personal injury law firm, Lance P. Richard, P.A. can clarify the law surrounding bicycles and pedestrians in Florida, highlighting who has the right of way, the obligations of cyclists on roadways and sidewalks, and crosswalk rules.
Rights and Responsibilities of Cyclists in Florida
In Florida, bicycles are legally defined as vehicles. This means that cyclists have all the privileges, rights, and responsibilities on public roads (except for expressways) that motor vehicle operators do. Therefore, it’s crucial that bicyclists obey all traffic laws, signals, and road markings, just as a driver would.
One important rule to note is that when a bike lane is available, cyclists must use it instead of riding on the general traffic lanes. This helps to ensure the safety of cyclists and to maintain smooth traffic flow.
However, Florida law offers an exception when a cyclist leaves the street. If cyclists ride on a sidewalk, they are considered pedestrians under the law. This means they must follow pedestrian rules and be aware of the specific rights and responsibilities associated with this status.
Do Pedestrians Always Have the Right of Way in Florida?
Pedestrians in Florida generally have the right of way. In scenarios where a pedestrian is at a crosswalk, and there’s a signal indicating that it’s safe to cross the road, drivers must yield to the pedestrian. Even if there’s no signal but a marked crosswalk is present, pedestrians still have the right of way, and drivers must yield.
Remember, though, that this right of way doesn’t absolve pedestrians from exercising due caution. Pedestrians must still adhere to signals, use designated crosswalks where available, and avoid suddenly moving into the path of oncoming vehicles.
Bicyclists in Crosswalks
While Florida law affords bicyclists the same rights and duties as pedestrians when they ride on sidewalks, there are specific rules to note when they navigate crosswalks. Bicyclists can ride along crosswalks, except where local ordinances expressly prohibit this.
Furthermore, despite having the rights and duties of a pedestrian in these situations, bicyclists must yield to pedestrians at all times, including when they’re in crosswalks. This is part of Florida’s emphasis on prioritizing pedestrian safety in shared spaces.
Navigate Florida Roads Safely with Legal Help
Understanding the rights and responsibilities of bicyclists and pedestrians on Florida’s roads is a step towards ensuring your safety and that of others. However, if you or a loved one has been involved in a road accident as a cyclist or pedestrian, it’s crucial to seek legal assistance promptly.
With over 25 years of experience, Lance P. Richard, P.A., is ready to provide the legal support you need. Whether you’ve been involved in an accident or need guidance navigating Florida’s bicycle and pedestrian laws, our team is here. Attorney Richard’s extensive experience handling complex cases in Florida ensures you receive the best possible advice and representation.
Sources:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0300-0399/0316/Sections/0316.2065.html
miamidadetpo.org/library/florida-pedestrian-law-enforcement-guide-2019-statutes-edition.pdf
