Florida is a state filled with warm weather and beautiful beaches. A new law going into effect on January 1st will limit bicyclist’s ability to enjoy the Florida coastlines. The new law requires a bicyclist to stay in the bicycle lane when traveling on a roadway less than the normal speed of traffic. Essentially, this law will force all bicyclists to remain in the bicycle lane at all times because it is uncommon for someone traveling on a bicycle to travel at rates of speed over 25 miles per hour. Some roadways with traveling speeds of 5 or 10 miles per hour may be continue to be exploited by bicyclists because of their ability to maintain a speed equal to the moving traffic. In addition, the law goes on to state that if there is no bicycle lane, a bicyclist must stay as close to the right hand curb as possible.
Many of Florida’s coastlines are lined with roadways consisting of traveling speeds of 25 to 45 miles per hour. Furthermore, many of these roads do not have bicycle lanes creating a potential problem for those who enjoy riding near the beach.
The purpose of implementing this new law is to limit bike accidents that result from bicycle and automobile collisions. By preventing bicyclists from traveling on roads that have speeds in excess of which the bike can travel will theoretically result in less hazardous conditions for both the bicyclists and those traveling in motor vehicles.
Given the abundance of bicyclists near the beaches of South Florida, it is very important to take all precautions to limit the possibility of collisions on the roadways. There has been an increase in distractions in recent years for those driving motor vehicles. Cell phone usage has caused many problems for Florida’s motorists and a driver using a cell phone while driving is less likely to notice a bicyclist traveling on the side of the road. Furthermore, a bicyclist who is not using the bicycle lane and instead travels in the flow of traffic will often weave in and out of other vehicles, thus distracting drivers and creating a greater risk of injury. A bicycle-car accident can result from the negligence of either person traveling on the roadway increasing the need for laws that will limit the total collisions that occur.
Many bikers say there is a growing concern about the size of the bicycle lanes. The lanes are often very narrow and a bicyclist attempting to stay within the lane may have trouble doing so. It is clear from this new law the state of Florida is attempting to create new ways to prevent bicycle injuries from occurring and expanding bicycle laws is likely in upcoming years.
The Schulman Law Group is particularly committed and skilled at determining fault and proving just money damages for bike accident victims. If you, or someone you truly care for has been seriously injured or killed while riding a bicycle and you suspect that another driver was at fault, you are encouraged to contact the Fort Lauderdale, Weston bike accident lawyers at The Schulman Law Group by contacting us toll free at (877) 529-0444 or contact us online.
