Bicycle Safety

The Sunshine State loves bicycles. Recent studies show that adults who bike to work have lower blood pressure and insulin levels than those who drive. Ideally every city and town in America would have separate paths and lanes for bicycles, but in many areas this is not yet a reality. The mixture of bicycles with cars and trucks can be dangerous. Florida statutes lay down the law in an attempt to keep cyclists safer:

• Bicyclists are bound by traffic laws in the same way as car drivers – cyclists must stop at stop signs and traffic lights and yield to pedestrians, as the law requires.
• Riders may not carry passengers – a cyclist is not allowed to carry an additional person on the bike unless the bike is specifically built for two, or has a proper and age-appropriate child or toddler seat attached.
• Riders and passengers under 16 must wear helmets – the helmet must meet specific safety standards and be properly fitted and buckled under the chin. A police officer may issue a ticket to a minor riding without a helmet. Failure to comply with the helmet law may result in a fine.
• Cyclists must ride no more than two abreast – so as not to impede the flow of traffic.
• Cyclist must use a light – when riding after dusk.
• Bicycles must have brakes – either hand or foot brakes that are capable of stopping a bike within 25 feet from a speed of 10 mph.

Even when bike riders comply with safety regulations, accidents happen. If you have been injured in a bicycling accident, speak to a personal injury lawyer. You might be entitled to compensation for your injuries and damage to your bike. For your free consultation call the Palm Harbor Law Office of Paul B. Genet, P.A. at 727-510-8802 or contact us online.