Sidewalk Bicycle Riding
Biking is a great way to get around Jacksonville and the surrounding areas in Florida, but knowing where you can and can’t ride is important. Many cyclists wonder, “Is it illegal to ride a bike on the sidewalk in Florida?” The answer isn’t a simple yes or no.
Can Bikes Ride on Sidewalks?
Florida bike laws do allow riders to take their bikes on sidewalks unless local regulations say otherwise. Jacksonville allows it, but cyclists have to follow certain rules to make sure everyone stays safe in the process.
Under Florida Statute 316.2065, a person riding a bike on the sidewalk has the same rights and duties as a driver and has to give the right of way to people on foot. They also have to follow specific safety rules, such as giving an audible signal before passing anyone on the walkway.
While riding on the sidewalk is legal in most areas, cyclists should always check for posted signs. Some high-traffic areas might not allow bicycles on walkways for pedestrian safety. This is especially common in downtown and business districts.
When Should Riders Use the Sidewalk?
Even though Florida allows riders on sidewalks, it’s not always the best option.
However, riding on the sidewalk is safer in certain situations, such as when:
- Heavy vehicle traffic makes the road unsafe for riders.
- There’s no designated bike lane.
- The sidewalk is wide, and there isn’t much foot traffic.
On the other hand, in certain scenarios, it might be too dangerous to have bikes on the sidewalks. Crowded walkways can make it hard to navigate, and driveways and crosswalks increase the risk of being hit by a car. Businesses and homes also have frequent foot traffic in and out of doorways, and pedestrians might not have time to see the bike coming their way.
Riders should always consider their surroundings when they’re deciding whether it’s safer to bike on the road or the sidewalk.
Rules Cyclists Have to Follow on Sidewalks
Riding bikes on sidewalks comes with responsibilities. Even though cyclists share the same rights as pedestrians, they also have to follow certain rules to avoid accidents.
These include:
- Give the right of way to pedestrians; slow down or stop if necessary
- Use a bell, verbal warning, or other audible signal when passing
- Follow traffic signs and signals, even on the sidewalk
- Ride at a safe speed, particularly when approaching intersections or driveways
- Use lights and reflectors if riding at night to be more visible to pedestrians and drivers
Following these bicycle rules in Florida helps people avoid accidents and keeps these shared spaces safer for everyone.
What Happens if a Rider Is in an Accident on the Sidewalk?
Even the most careful riders might still find themselves in an accident when riding on the sidewalk. They might collide with a pedestrian, or a vehicle might hit them at a driveway entrance. In these situations, determining fault depends on who was negligent.
As an example, suppose the rider didn’t yield to a pedestrian and caused an injury. In that case, the cyclist would be held responsible. However, if a driver doesn’t check for sidewalk traffic before turning and hits a cyclist, the driver is likely at fault.
Stay Safe While Biking In Jacksonville
Cycling laws are there to keep everyone safe, but knowing them is only part of the equation. The safest choice depends on the situation. Traffic, pedestrians, and local rules all play a role. Stay informed, stay aware, and ride smart.
Contact the Jacksonville Bicycle Accident Law Firm of Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers Today For Help
For more information, please contact the Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra bicycle accident law firm of Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers at the nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.
We serve Duval County, St. Johns County, and its surrounding areas:
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Jacksonville
9471 Baymeadows Rd #105,
Jacksonville, FL 32256
(904) 396-1100
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Downtown Jacksonville
121 W Forsyth St Suite 1000,
Jacksonville, FL 32202
(904) 822-4225
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Ponte Vedra
480 Town Plaza Ave #130,
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081
(904) 675-1167
