Most rules that apply to vehicles also apply to motorcyclists, in Florida. There are licenses to obtain and much of the same road rules to follow. In Florida, with the abundance of motorcycles, one must be vigilant when sharing the road. If you spot a motorcycle on the road you should give them extra space and know where they are at all times. And if you are driving a motorcycle and you are injured in an accident, contact a motorcycle accident attorney immediately.
Lane Sharing
Lane splitting is not legal in Florida, but lane sharing is. This is when two motorcycles share a lane and drive side by side. They must be driving at the same or approximately the same rate of speed.
Motorcycle Control Rules
First and foremost, Florida requires motorcyclists to be in full control of the vehicle while they are driving. This means that he must be sitting properly at all times. The motorcycle must also be equipped with a secure-permanent seat for the driver. He must be in moped position which is sitting as if straddling a horse, with one leg on either side of the motorcycle. The person must be facing forward, with both wheels on the ground. The driver must have both hands on the steering wheel, and not be carrying a package that would impede this. He is able to lift his leg from the footrests if needed. He must be sitting at all times, although the driver is able to rise from the seat to ensure careful driving.
Lights
Unlike regular automobiles, Florida only requires motorcycles to have one functioning light. The motorcyclist must have a rear view mirror that can see at least 200 ft behind him.
Rules For Carrying Passengers
Florida does not require that motorcyclist passengers wear helmets. And the number of passengers that bike can carry varies, depending on the motorcycle’s equipment. For example, a standard motorcycle can typically seat two passengers. But if the motorcycle has a sidecar, it can seat more passengers. A passenger sitting behind the driver is knows as a ‘pillion passenger’. The passenger should not interfere with the conducting of the motorcycle when riding along.
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