Bicycle Laws in Ocala, FL

Last year, Florida reported 9,321 bicycle accidents that killed over two hundred cyclists and injured 8,815 others. Of these accidents, 125 happened in Marion County. 

Since Ocala is Marion County’s principal city, the majority of these bicycle accidents happened in or around Ocala. Nine cyclists lost their lives, and 110 others were hurt. In light of these statistics, it is vital for both cyclists and drivers in the area to understand common bicycle laws to stay safe on the road.

6 Bicycling Laws Ocala Drivers and Cyclists Need to Know

Florida’s bicycle laws are primarily designed to protect cyclists from colliding with cars and other motor vehicles and potentially suffering severe harm. However, to have the maximum effect, all people who use Ocala’s roadways need to follow these traffic laws. 

Six of the most important of these laws that everyone should know include the following:

1. Bicycles Are Subject to the Same Traffic Laws

The state’s traffic laws apply to those operating “vehicles,” a legal term that includes bicycles. Therefore, bicyclists must follow the same rules that govern motor vehicles such as cars and trucks. Specifically, a bicyclist on the road must obey all red lights, stop signs, and the right-of-way rules that car and truck drivers must follow.

2. Helmets Are Required for Younger Riders

Any bicycle rider or passenger under 16 must wear an approved helmet, whether riding in Ocala or anywhere else in the state. However, all cyclists should strongly consider wearing a helmet, as doing so can prevent severe or fatal head trauma.

3. Use Bike Lanes When Available

Ocala and other Florida cities have bike lanes on some roads to help create space between bicyclists and motor vehicles. Where these lanes are available, cyclists must use them except when turning left or avoiding a hazard. Also, bicyclists do not have to use a bike lane if they are traveling at the same speed as other traffic on the road.

4. Ride to the Right When Possible

If there is no bike lane on the road you are cycling on, you should ride your bike as far right as possible. You may use a full lane of traffic if the lane is not wide enough for you and a car or truck to share it. As with bike lanes, make sure to ride on the right unless there is a safety hazard, you are turning left, or you are traveling at the same speed as other motorized traffic.

5. Use Hand Signals When Turning or Stopping

Many bicycles do not have turn or brake signals like motor vehicles. Nonetheless, bicyclists must still signal their intention to slow down or make a turn. 

To do so, bicyclists need to use hand signals at least 100 feet before turning or stopping. Bicyclists can indicate a turn in either direction by extending the respective arm, and a stop by extending the left hand downward alongside the body.

6. Riding on Sidewalks Is Permitted in Ocala

As an alternative to riding in the street, you may ride your bicycle on sidewalks in Ocala. If you choose to do so, you must ride in a reasonably careful manner and yield the right of way to all pedestrians you encounter.

Following Ocala Bicycle Laws Keeps Everyone Safe on the Road

Knowing the bicycle laws in Ocala is an essential part of driving safely, whether you are a cyclist or a car driver. When you keep these rules in mind, you can help ensure you and everyone else on the road have a safe journey.