Communication isn’t the only aspect of modern life that has gotten speedier these days. Transportation has also taken on a new character, with cars vying for space on the road with bicycles – a favored method of transport for both pleasure and business, with cities all over the country sponsoring “Bike to Work” and “Bike to School” events.
With bicycles becoming a more common presence on roads and sidewalks, it is important to be aware of the laws that define bicycle use in Florida. Here are a few examples worth bearing in mind the next time you approach that two-wheeled vehicle temporarily slowing your commute:
Three-Foot Law: Motorists in Florida are required by law to give at least 3 feet of clearance when overtaking and passing others on roadways. Some say that the law is ineffective because it is not regularly and consistently enforced. Even so, giving cyclists ample breathing room not only makes sense from a defensive driving standpoint, but also helps to keep roadways safe for everyone.
Passing within a Bike Lane: While conflicts between cars and bikes are frequently the topic of discussion and debate, there can be some confusion as to the rights and responsibilities of cyclists toward one another. Case in point – passing another cyclist while riding within the same marked bike lane. Since the three-foot law (above) applies to any vehicle passing another vehicle, it is not physically possible to pass a slower bike while staying within the bike lane’s marked boundaries, which are typically only four or five feet in width. A cyclist who passes another bike is not required to stay within the lane; however, cyclists are responsible for entering and exiting roadways (aka, making lane changes) with care, just as car drivers are.
Cyclists in Crosswalks: We’ve all seen it happen at least once: A cyclist approaches a crosswalk and blows through or by a group of unsuspecting pedestrians, creating an instant conflict that could have easily been avoided. Florida law says that cyclists in crosswalks have all of the rights and duties as do pedestrians. However, cyclists must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. In fact, they are directed to “give an audible signal before overtaking and passing such pedestrian.”
In the event of a conflict between cyclist and motorist, or between cyclist and pedestrian, it is important to know your rights and responsibilities in the situation. Doing so after the fact can often necessitate the hiring of legal counsel to both navigate the system as well as to advocate on your behalf. Should you require further information about a specific traffic incident in which you have been involved, please give us a call.
