Bicycling Laws & Safety
The cities of Ocala, Dunnellon and Belleview all follow Florida Statutes regarding bicycle operations. Simple explanations of some of those statutes are included below.
- When riding on a sidewalk or crosswalk, a bicyclist has all the rights and duties applicable to a pedestrian;
- A person operating a bicycle along a sidewalk , or across a crosswalk shall yield the right-of-way to any pedestrian and shall give an audible signal before overtaking and passing such pedestrian;
- A bicycle is classified as a vehicle. A person in control of a vehicle on a street or highway is a driver. As a driver, a cyclist must follow the rules common to all drivers. As the driver of the bicycle, he or she must also obey regulations adopted specifically for bicycles;
- Upon all roadways of sufficient width, a vehicle must be driven on the right side of the roadway;
- A cyclist may not wear a headset, headphone or listening device, other than a hearing aid, while riding;
- Riding in single file is required except on bike paths or parts of roadways set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles, or when two people riding side-by-side within one lane will not impede traffic flow;
- Dress to be seen! Light or brightly colored clothes make it easier for drivers to see you during the daytime hours. At night, you should wear reflective materials on a helmet, jacket, or shoes (preferably all three);
- Cyclists shall comply with indications of all traffic control signals.
Click here for a full list of all Florida Statutes governing bicycle operations.