Our hearts usually jump when we see the red or blue lights flashing and a law enforcement vehicle pulls us over.
My cycling buddy Kevin Shutt recently had this experience. The story ended well. Here’s his photo and post from Strava (used by permission). For those interested the dashcam video is on his YouTube channel.
Kevin’s Strava post:
“Yes, this pic is all for fun, because it was taken after all the dust had settled.
Roughly, 20 minutes prior to this photo being taken, this deputy sheriff pulled me over for riding two abreast. We agreed to disagree on the law and though I was willing to take a ticket and have my day in court, the deputy declined to hand me a ticket, and we went our separate ways.
A few minutes later, I was in line at Sassy Tarts Bakery, when my buddy Scott poked his head in, letting me know the deputy just showed up…looking for me. My heart sank.
My instinct was to run because I watch too much TV. As it turned out, the officer came and found me because he reviewed the statute and wanted to apologize to me because his interpretation was wrong.”
As you can see, this story did indeed end well. Did you notice in Kevin’s interaction with the officer, he was cordial and knowledgeable and so was the deputy. The deputy was also conscientious. He immediately read up on the bicycle statutes. He then tracked Kevin down and apologized. Let’s give a shout out to this deputy. (If you agree, feel free to click “LIKE” at the end of this post.)
Test your knowledge.
How well do you know the answers to these laws affecting cyclists in Florida.
How many cyclists are allowed to ride side by side on a road?
If there is a bike lane, is a cyclist required to use it?
What’s the exception when cyclists must ride single file?
Is a bicycle considered a vehicle, and is the rider considered to be the driver?
Can a cyclist slow down and “roll through” a stop sign, if the coast is clear?
Can you ride a bike on a sidewalk? It depends. What does it depend upon?
If you ride in the dark, are lights required on your bike?
Are bike helmets required?
Here’s a question for motorists – when passing a cyclist, what is the minimum distance you must leave between you and the cyclist?
Now that you have taken this brief quiz you can check your answers with these two resources. They are a good source for Florida law concerning cyclists. Knowing the rules of the road helps keep you safe. These laws also outline the rights and responsibilities we have as cyclists.
Florida Bicycle Association – has a downloadable summary of Florida Bicycle law.
Florida Bicycle Law – provides in-depth opinions on cycling law and your rights as a cyclist.
Here are a few additional tips
Check cycling regulations in your Florida city and county. It may be slightly different from the state laws, such as if you can ride a bike on sidewalks.
Be thoughtful and courteous to motorists. Follow the Golden Rule of “treat others the way you would want to be treated”.
Try not to slow traffic for too long. It can aggravate motorist when cyclists hinder the flow of traffic for too long. Just be aware and considerate.
Use hand signals to show your intentions. Drivers appreciate that you are trying to be helpful.
If you live or are riding outside of Florida, Google the state’s bicycle laws. For instance, Georgia bicycle laws have a few variations from Florida. Idaho has a law that allows cyclists to slow down at stop signs and if clear proceed through, called the Idaho Law.
As you ride, win a few friends for all cyclists with your friendly demeanor and courtesy. One of us, represents all of us.
Ride often. Be safe.
Bruce
This is a very common occurrence, handled very well by both.