Awareness is the first step to safety, it really is that simple. And when it comes down to it, the more you know about Orlando bicycle safety laws the easier it becomes to avoid bicycle accidents. Knowing how to avoid common accidents is something we can all get on board with. And we are just spinning our wheels here. Our Orlando bicycle accident lawyers, recommend following these rules to avoid bicycle accidents so you don’t find yourself in any danger or to avoid injury in general.
In the city of Orlando, Florida, there are laws that regulate the use of bicycles to prevent or reduce high-crash risk behaviors.
Highlights on Bicycle Laws in Orlando
It is important for bicyclists to pay attention to the rules and regulations on the road to prevent mishaps, specifically those highlighted in the bike laws of the city of Orlando, Florida.
- All the rights and duties of a driver are given to bicyclists, so they must comply with all the traffic controls and signals.
- The bicyclist must also yield the right of way to pedestrians when on the sidewalk, giving an audible signal when overtaking a pedestrian.
- A fixed, regular seat is recommended for bicyclists to use for riding.
- The bicycle’s maximum number of riders/passengers is based on how it was designed.
- While riding the bicycle, it is required that at least one hand is kept on the handlebars all the time.
- A working brake is required for every bicycle before riding it.
- A helmet is required for every bicyclist below the age of 16.
- Bicycles used between sunset and sunrise must be equipped with a white lamp in front and a red lamp and a reflector on the rear side.
Parents and guardians are responsible and must ensure that their children comply with all the provisions of this bicycle law. If you do find that your child was injured in a bicycle accident, you must explain the entire incident to your Orlando personal injury attorney.
Bicycle Etiquette on Trails in Orlando
The city of Orlando has bicycle trails for commuters and recreational riders to enjoy an easy and convenient way of getting around the city. The city promotes a safe and comfortable environment for users.
- Be courteous and respectful
- Move off the trail when slowing or stopping
- Ride consistently and predictably
- Keep to the right
- Trails are not designed for racing
- Obey all traffic signals and signs
- Pass other users on the left
- Use lights and sounds
- Wear a helmet
Bicyclist Safety and Education
The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has provided a few safe riding tips for bicyclists. So, before riding your bike, it is important to ensure that all parts are secure and working properly.
- Always wear a bicycle helmet that fits properly to protect your brain and save your life.
- Adjust the bicycle to fit. This includes the seat height, handlebar height, and the distance between you and the top tube.
- Do a quick equipment check. Make sure that the tires are properly inflated and the brakes are working.
- Rider visibility. It is important that the color of your outfit will match the time of day and condition of the weather to be properly seen by others on the road. If possible, it is advisable to wear something that reflects light, such as reflective markings or tape, or flashing lights.
- Control the bicycle properly. It is not advisable to carry books and other items on one hand. It is important that you have control over your bike with at least one hand on the handlebars.
- Beware of road hazards. You must be on the lookout for hazards that might cause a crash.
- Do not ride at night because it will be harder for others to see you than during the day.
It is important to obey the basic bicycle laws in the city of Orlando to prevent accidents and provide a comfortable and easy way to enjoy the road with others.
Once you are ready, be sure to visit our offices at 5401 South Kirkman Road, Suite 310, Orlando, FL, 32819 or call us directly at (407) 289-0020. One of our Orlando bicycle law experts will be able to determine if you have a case and help you navigate this process.
About the Author
Michael Steinger
MICHAEL S. STEINGER, founding partner of Steinger, Greene & Feiner, believes in representing real people, not big businesses. Since the firm’s creation in 1997, Steinger, Greene & Feiner has never represented an insurance company or large corporation, and he vows to keep this promise. Over the course of his career, Michael has handled thousands of Florida accident cases, recovering millions of dollars for his clients and earning him membership into the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum.
Staying up-to-date on the ever-evolving laws protecting injury victims and their families, Michael is an active member of the American Bar Association, the Palm Beach, and St. Lucie Bar Associations, and sits on the Auto Insurance Committee of the Florida Justice Association.
Michael Steinger
MICHAEL S. STEINGER, founding partner of Steinger, Greene & Feiner, believes in representing real people, not big businesses. Since the firm’s creation in 1997, Steinger, Greene & Feiner has never represented an insurance company or large corporation, and he vows to keep this promise. Over the course of his career, Michael has handled thousands of Florida accident cases, recovering millions of dollars for his clients and earning him membership into the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum. Staying up-to-date on the ever-evolving laws protecting injury victims and their families, Michael is an active member of the American Bar Association, the Palm Beach, and St. Lucie Bar Associations, and sits on the Auto Insurance Committee of the Florida Justice Association.