Are you planning to take your children for a bike ride in Cape Coral, Florida? Before you hit the road, it's essential to understand the rules and regulations that apply to cyclists in the area. The United States Cyclists League has put together some guidelines that will help you stay safe and have a great time while biking, running, or walking. In Florida, bicycles are legally considered vehicles and cyclists are considered drivers. This means that cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers of other vehicles.
This includes stopping at stop signs and red lights, driving with the flow of traffic, using traffic lights at night, yielding the right of way when entering a road, and giving way to pedestrians at crosswalks. It is generally legal to ride a bike on a sidewalk in Florida. However, cyclists should remember that they have the same duties as pedestrians when cycling on sidewalks or pedestrian crossings. In addition to designated bike lanes, cyclists are allowed to ride on streets, sidewalks, and pedestrian crossings.
When biking on sidewalks or crosswalks, cyclists must give way to pedestrians. The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) recommends an outdoor lane width of 14 feet for urban roads that don't have bicycle lanes or paved shoulders. This allows cars to safely pass cyclists within a single lane. If you ever find yourself in an accident while riding your bike in Cape Coral or Fort Myers, it's best to contact a law firm that specializes in bicycle accident cases.
Bicyclists are not allowed to ride more than two abreast on roads or trails unless they are on parts of roads reserved for exclusive use by bicycles. When turning right on a road with a bicycle lane, cyclists must leave the bike path and enter the right-turning lane. The FDOT has established a two-year pilot program in three urban areas that allows bicycle access to highways and bridge segments of limited-access roads that cross bodies of water. It's important to be aware of all applicable laws before taking your children out for a bike ride in Cape Coral.
Not paying attention to the proper bicycle laws in Florida can increase the risk of crashing and suffering serious injuries. Knowing the rules of the road can help ensure that you and your family have an enjoyable and safe experience while cycling in Cape Coral.
