Florida offers beautiful weather and amazing scenery – it is one of the best places in the country to ride a motorcycle. This is probably why it is the second-most popular state for motorcycle riding, with over 620,000 registered motorcyclists.
It does not matter if you live in Florida or are visiting; it is important to know the laws. At Zimmet & Zimmet, we want to ensure you stay safe while on the roads, so we have created this guide with the most important motorcycle laws in the state.
Helmet Law Specifications
All riders under age 21 must wear a helmet approved when driving a motorcycle. For operators over age 21, helmets are optional.
While this is true, if you choose not to wear a helmet, you must have an insurance policy that provides a minimum of $10,000 in medical benefits. The policy will cover your injuries if you are injured in an accident.
Motorcycle Endorsements Are Required
A driver’s license does not give you the legal right to drive a motorcycle in Florida. A motorcycle endorsement is necessary to operate a motorcycle with an engine that is 50cc or bigger.
To get this endorsement, drivers who are 16 and have a driver’s license must pass the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s Basic Rider Course. You can get a license for motorcycle operation only if you do not have a traditional driver’s license.
Eye Protection is Mandatory
Even though you can opt out of wearing a helmet (if you are 21 or older), you do not have this option regarding protective eyewear.
Anyone operating a motorcycle must use goggles or another type of protective eyewear while they are riding. This is beneficial for everyone and something to remember.
No Lane Splitting Allowed
In some states, it is legal for a motorcycle to ride between two occupied lanes of traffic. This is called lane splitting. However, it is illegal in Florida.
State law allows motorcyclists to have full use of the lane they are in and makes it illegal for other vehicles to encroach on them. However, the law also prohibits motorcyclists from passing between occupied lanes of traffic.
Mirrors Are Required
All vehicles in Florida, including motorcycles, are required to have mirrors. The mirrors must be positioned so the driver can see a minimum of 200 feet behind them.
Keep Headlights On
The state of Florida has taken steps to improve motorcycle visibility to others on the road. This has been done by making headlights mandatory when operating a motorcycle.
This helps to increase visibility and reduce the likelihood of an accident.
Avoid the Use of Listening Devices
If you are using a listening device while riding a motorcycle, it may keep you from hearing sounds around you.
Wearing an earpiece connected to your phone does not violate the law if you keep one ear open to hear sounds.
Passenger Rules and Requirements
You are not allowed to have a passenger on your motorcycle unless the bike has a seat for the person. If you have a passenger, the bike must also have footrests for the passenger to use.
Stunts are Illegal
Wheelies and other types of motorcycle stunts are illegal. When driving a motorcycle, you must stay in the seat and face forward with both wheels on the ground.
Stunts are dangerous to you and others on the road.
Only Two Motorcycles Can Ride Abreast
Since lane splitting is illegal, it makes sense that it would be illegal for more than two motorcycles to ride side by side in the same lane.
Road lanes are not wide enough to accommodate more than two bikes in this fashion and can lead to dangerous driving conditions for everyone.
Let Us Help You if You Are Involved in a Florida Motorcycle Accident
Even if you follow all the laws when riding a Motorcycle in Florida, accidents may still happen. At Zimmet & Zimmet, we can help if you are an accident victim and sustain injuries and losses.
We understand how serious the injuries of a motorcycle accident can be and will handle the legal claim process so you can focus on what really matters – your recovery. Our legal team will fight for your rights aggressively to ensure you get the maximum compensation possible.
The first step is to contact our legal team to schedule a free initial consultation. We can learn about the facts of your case and create a plan to move forward with a claim.
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