On A Bicycle
Fla. Stat. 316.2065 — a driver's rights, the bike lane or the right edge, and 3 feet
In Florida, every person propelling a vehicle by human power has all the rights and duties of the driver of any other vehicle, except the special rules and provisions that by their nature cannot apply. On a sidewalk or crosswalk, a rider has a pedestrian's rights and duties, yields to pedestrians, and gives an audible signal before passing them.
Where on the road. Below the normal speed of traffic, a rider uses the bicycle lane, or if there is none, stays as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge, except when passing, preparing for a left turn, or avoiding a hazard, turn lane or substandard-width lane. Riders may go no more than two abreast, and two abreast may not impede traffic.
Groups at a stop sign, and 3 feet to pass. After coming to a full stop, riders in a group may proceed through a stop sign in groups of 10 or fewer, and motorists let one group through before moving forward. A driver passing a bicycle in the same travel lane leaves not less than 3 feet, or stays behind until it can.
- Between sunset and sunrise, a white front lamp visible from at least 500 feet, and a rear lamp and reflector each showing red visible from 600 feet.
- A rider or passenger under 16 years of age wears a properly fitted, fastened helmet meeting the federal standard.
- A child under 4 years of age, or weighing 40 pounds or less, rides in a seat or carrier designed for a child that size.
First offenses. A first helmet charge is dismissed on proof of buying a compliant helmet, and a first lighting charge on proof of buying and installing the lights.
| The assumption | What the law actually does |
|---|---|
| The assumptionCyclists must ride single file at all times | What the law actually doesTwo abreast is allowed if it does not impede traffic |
| The assumptionA missing light means a fine regardless | What the law actually doesA first lighting charge is dismissed on proof the lights were bought and installed |
Local ordinances on sidewalks, paths and bicycle registration are not all on this page. How these rules apply to a particular crash or ticket is a question for a licensed Florida attorney.
Sources for this section (2)
- Fla. Stat. 316.2065 — Bicycle regulations
- Fla. Stat. 316.083 — Overtaking and passing a vehicle, a bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of September 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Florida attorney.