Yes.
According to §316.2065, Florida Statutes, a bicycle is legally defined as a vehicle and can be operated on roadways. But, because cyclists have the same privileges and rights as other drivers, they have the same responsibilities too. Cyclists must follow all the traffic laws, signs, and controls on public roads. Other key Florida laws for bicyclists include:
- Do not ride a bicycle under the influence of alcohol or drugs (yes, you can get a DUI on a bike!).
- Do not text while biking. Not only is it unsafe, Florida’s new texting and driving law may extend to bicyclists.
- Do not wear headphones or ear buds. They will reduce your ability to hear the surrounding traffic.
- Always use directional hand signals to show other drivers that you are about to turn.
- You may use the full lane when making a left turn, passing, avoiding hazards, or when a lane is too narrow for you and a car to share it safely.
- At night you must have a white light visible from 500 feet on the front of your bicycle and a red reflector and a red light visible from 600 feet on the rear. Flashing lights are allowed.
- All bicyclists and passengers under the age of 16 are required to wear helmets. Of course, helmets are always encouraged as a minimum safety measure.
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