What Are The Florida Traffic Laws Regarding Drivers Of Motor Vehicles In Relation To Bicyclists?
A: Although this list is not comprehensive, some of the Florida traffic laws applying to drivers of motor vehicles in relation to bicyclists are the following (adapted from the Florida Department of Transportation website):
- Avoid driving on a path or sidewalk: with the exception of permanent driveways (or authorized temporary driveways), shared-use paths and sidewalks are to be used by human-powered vehicles and pedestrians only.
- Yield to bicyclists, pedestrians, and other vehicles when entering any roadway: drivers must stop their vehicles and yield to all bicycles, other vehicles, and pedestrians nearby before entering a roadway from a building, private roadway, driveway, or alley.
- Avoid standing or parking in a bicycle lane: do not stand or park any vehicle in a bicycle lane, except to pick up or drop off passengers (unless necessary to avoid collision with another vehicle or in following the orders of a police officer).
- Exercise a standard duty of care on all roadways: all drivers must drive in a “careful and prudent manner” with regard for all conditions and circumstances to avoid putting the lives, limbs, or “property of any person” in danger. More specifically, drivers must “exercise due care” to avoid collisions with bicyclists, pedestrians, and other vehicles.
Although all of these laws are important, they are not the only ones applying to drivers concerning bicyclists. For more information on Florida traffic laws and metro Ft. Lauderdale accidents, request your free copy of David Benenfeld’s auto accident book, 7 Deadly Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Auto Accident Case. If you have been injured in a Dade, Palm Beach, or Broward County bicycle accident and have questions regarding liability, fault, your rights, or how to obtain compensation for medical bills and other expenses, contact David Benenfeld online or by phone for free answers and advice.
