Whether you bike around town or the FSU campus, the Tallahassee Police Department wants you to practice safe biking. Over the past five years, High Visibility Enforcement officers have engaged in proactive patrols to educate bicyclists and pedestrians about the rules of the road.
Police may issue citations, or you might be held liable for an accident if you do not follow the rules. Understanding traffic laws for bicyclists in Tallahassee and knowing your rights and responsibilities may keep you safe. If you are in an accident, our experienced attorneys are available to help.
Under State Law, Bicycles Are Considered Vehicles
According to Florida Statute § 316.2065(1), a bicycle is a vehicle, which gives you the same rights and responsibilities as a motorist unless a regulation specifically excludes you. This means you must signal when making a turn, ride with the flow of traffic, stop at red lights, and yield when appropriate.
While anyone 16 or older is not required to wear a bicycle helmet, Fla. Stat. § 316.2065(3)(d) requires all riders and passengers younger than 16 to wear a helmet that meets federal safety standards, is properly fitted, and is fastened securely when riding. Other bicycle traffic rules include:
- Proper lighting if bicycling between sunset and sunrise, with a white front lamp illuminating at least 500 feet and a red reflector or rear lamp visible for at least 600 feet
- Riding on sidewalks is permitted unless prohibited by local ordinance
- Bicyclists must yield to pedestrians on crosswalks or sidewalks and must signal by horn or other audible device when passing
- Bikers must ride as far to the right as possible in traffic lanes, with some exceptions
- Cyclists should use bike lanes when practical
- Riding alongside another bicycle is permitted if you do not disrupt normal traffic flow
- Riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal, with the possibility of arrest, a fine, and a criminal record
These traffic statutes for bikers are meant to keep everyone safe while sharing the roads of Tallahassee. Be vigilant, however, because you have little protection against much heavier vehicles that could collide with you.
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What About Electric Bicycles?
The law divides electric bicycles, known as e-bikes, into three classes. Class 1 e-bikes are pedal-assisted, with the motor ceasing assistance at 20 mph. Class 2 bikes are throttle-assisted and reach a top speed of 20 mph, while Class 3 bikes are pedal-assisted but with motor assistance up to 28 mph.
E-bike riders in each class should check local ordinances because the rules may vary. Uninformed e-cyclists in Tallahassee may inadvertently break traffic laws and put themselves and others at risk of accidents.
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Contact a Tallahassee Attorney Who Understands Your Rights Under the Traffic Rules for Bikers
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles reports that approximately 18 bicycle crashes occur every day. In 2023, the state recorded 227 bicycle deaths, 6.72 percent of all traffic-related fatalities. Even when accidents are not fatal, they may cause catastrophic injuries that require extensive and costly medical treatment. If you are unable to work because of your injuries, your financial situation may become even more difficult.
Our attorneys offer a personal service because when we get to know you, we could better represent you. If you are abiding by the traffic laws for bicyclists in Tallahassee but are injured by a reckless motorist, call an attorney who cares and could help you secure the compensation you deserve.
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