Do Bicycles Always Have the Right of Way?

Bicycle Road Rules in Florida

In Florida, bicycles are considered vehicles and must obey the same road rules as motor vehicles. When sharing the road with other motor vehicles, bicyclists must remember to follow road and traffic signs, as well as use hand signals to other motorists when making a turn. Read on to learn more about bike rules and the right of way.

When Do Bicyclists Have the Right of Way?

Both motor vehicles and bicycles must give the right of way to pedestrians at all times, and motor vehicle drivers must yield to bicyclists.

In 4-way stops, the first vehicle to stop is the one that moves forward first. When two vehicles approach an intersection simultaneously and are side by side, the driver on the left must yield to the driver on the right. When two vehicles stop at a 4-way, head to head, and one vehicle intends to turn left, and one is turning right, the vehicle turning right has the right of way.

However, if a bicycle and a motor vehicle stop simultaneously, the bicyclist has the right of way no matter the position.

Safety Reminders for Bicyclists

Since bicyclists have little to no protection other than their helmet, it’s critical to remember these safety rules when riding in traffic to avoid a bicycle crash:

• Always yield to pedestrians.
• Ride in the same direction as the flow of traffic.
• Obey all traffic signs and signals.
• Use hand signals to alert other bicycle riders and drivers of your intended moves.
• Ride in designated bike lanes whenever available.

It’s legal to ride a bicycle on sidewalks in Florida when crowded with pedestrians. However, to avoid a pedestrian collision, it may be safer to ride with traffic on the side of the road.

Injured in a Bicycle Crash? Learn How We Can Help.

Being involved in a bicycle crash with a motor vehicle can cause bicyclists to sustain catastrophic injuries. Not only can the recovery process be challenging, not knowing how you are going to cover medical bills and costs related to treatment and therapies can be overbearing.

Know that you are not alone and can find the support you need when pursuing compensation for your injuries. Our personal injury attorneys are ready to guide you every step of the way. We have helped countless Floridians seek justice after being involved in a bicycle accident. Let us do the same for you.

Contact Rosenberg & Rosenberg, P.A. today at (888) 499-6206 to schedule a free consultation.