Rules of the ROAD for Bicycles & CARS

[rocketman7768]

Learn and understand the laws related to bicycling and driving on the streets in the Villages and on any road in the state of Fl.

A) Bikes & Cars
Same Roads
Same Rights
Same Rules


B) Cars should pass NO closer than three (3) feet to any biker on the road.
IT'S THE LAW

C) Every lane is a bicycle lane.
IT'S THE LAW

D) Share The Road: it is the right thing to do.

[SALYBOW]

We just came up Poweel Road and there was a bicycle car accident on the South bound side

[Stdole]

Exactly same rules of the road... I passed a bicycle two days ago legally near Sumter Landing... as he approached the STOP Sign interesection.. Yes he did straight on through at full speed...

I am only posting this as the rider gave me a terrible look and a little horn as I passed him... I also know who you are but I will withhold the name
for now... as I sometimes ride also... but this is not right!

[wholman66]

Plain and simple, obey the laws of the road, not just the rules!!! Stop signs and speed signs are there for a reason, some think they are there for everyone else.

[Mudder]

I know rules are the same but I get sick of seeing so many cyclists just breeze right thru stop signs.

[clekr]

I've said this before and I'll say it again. Bikes should not run the stops signs. As a rider I've observed that only about 10% of bikers stops. Which makes them roughly twice as likely to stop as a car.

[mrf6969]

Maybe it is just me but all these bikes around here are just an accident waiting to happen. Why on earth do they want to be on a road with 3 to 5 thousand pound vehicles zooming by them. The bikers visibility is very poor with helmets and tiny mirrors for viewing. I bike but stay in safe quiet neighborhoods. I know we hear about golf cart accidents here but I would imagine there are as many or more bike accidents of one type or another. Would not the bikers be safer on the paths?

[57ChevyFI]

I always think about a person jumping in the ocean knowing they are surrounded by sharks, sooner or later you're going to get bit, but hey, they have the right to swim with the sharks. I do wish that the bicyclist were as passionate about about obeying the laws as they are about making sure vehicles obey the laws.

[njbchbum]

Maybe it is just me but all these bikes around here are just an accident waiting to happen. Why on earth do they want to be on a road with 3 to 5 thousand pound vehicles zooming by them. The bikers visibility is very poor with helmets and tiny mirrors for viewing. I bike but stay in safe quiet neighborhoods. I know we hear about golf cart accidents here but I would imagine there are as many or more bike accidents of one type or another. Would not the bikers be safer on the paths?

See the current thread on "Multi-modal paths" started by dotti! That might answer your quandry!

[tuccillo]

Many regular cyclists prefer the roads over the cart paths because we believe it is actually safer. The cart paths can be very crowded with golf carts and walkers/joggers and there is a lot going on where the cart paths cross the various Village entrances. Visibility is not an issue - I can see fine and I have a relatively large mirror on my handlebars. My helmet does not restrict my peripheral vision. The biggest issue I see is cars pulling into the roundabouts with their view of traffic partially blocked by the neighborhood signs in front of many of the guard shacks. Also, a fair number of people pull into the roundabouts without really watching for cyclists. This time of year I try to limit my riding on Buena Vista unless I am riding with a group.


Maybe it is just me but all these bikes around here are just an accident waiting to happen. Why on earth do they want to be on a road with 3 to 5 thousand pound vehicles zooming by them. The bikers visibility is very poor with helmets and tiny mirrors for viewing. I bike but stay in safe quiet neighborhoods. I know we hear about golf cart accidents here but I would imagine there are as many or more bike accidents of one type or another. Would not the bikers be safer on the paths?

[rubicon]

I suspect bicyclists choose main roads because they can go full throttle and in doing so prefer nothing break their momentum. And many the time when I had to dodge their reluctance.

I moved down from a big city and as recollection serves me people were more observant of the rules of the road, signalling their intentions etc.

I am left with the impression that either one of two things permeate the thinking of car/cart drivers, bicyclists and in some instances jogger/pedestrians, here in The Villages and that is "ëntitlment" or "an unawareness". Translated you wait for me because I am more important than you or holy jez I never even saw that .... or worse totally ignorant of their surroundings just plain spaced out

[outlaw]

Learn and understand the laws related to bicycling and driving on the streets in the Villages and on any road in the state of Fl.

A) Bikes & Cars
Same Roads
Same Rights
Same Rules


B) Cars should pass NO closer than three (3) feet to any biker on the road.
IT'S THE LAW

C) Every lane is a bicycle lane.
IT'S THE LAW

D) Share The Road: it is the right thing to do.

I don't think the rules are exactly the same. In Florida, my understanding is that bicyclists are supposed to stay as far over in the right lane as safely as possible unless turning left or passing another vehicle or stationary object. Also, bicycles do not have to be licensed and therefore do not contribute to maintenance of the roads they share.

[dewilson58]

Learn and understand the laws related to bicycling and driving on the streets in the Villages and on any road in the state of Fl.

A) Bikes & Cars
Same Roads
Same Rights
Same Rules


B) Cars should pass NO closer than three (3) feet to any biker on the road.
IT'S THE LAW

C) Every lane is a bicycle lane.
IT'S THE LAW

D) Share The Road: it is the right thing to do.


Good reminder.......Thanks!!

[outlaw]

The other day I was cycling on the MMP behind a string of about 7 or 8 golf carts moving verrrrry slowly behind two cyclists on road bikes in full "racing" gear!!plodding along at a leisurely pace of about 6 to 8 mph. They were riding abreast, using the entire lane. Then they decided to stop in the middle of a long stretch of pathway. They didn't bother to move over to the side, but just stood there taking up the whole lane while they waited for an even slower companion to catch up. I have to say I wouldn't have been upset if they had been "persuaded" into the trees by a golf cart.

[Mikeod]

I don't think the rules are exactly the same. In Florida, my understanding is that bicyclists are supposed to stay as far over in the right lane as safely as possible unless turning left or passing another vehicle or stationary object. Also, bicycles do not have to be licensed and therefore do not contribute to maintenance of the roads they share.
I believe that only applies where is only one lane in each direction. On roads like Morse or Buena Vista, they have the right to occupy the whole lane. Other traffic can use the other lane to get around them safely.

[looneycat]

I believe that only applies where is only one lane in each direction. On roads like Morse or Buena Vista, they have the right to occupy the whole lane. Other traffic can use the other lane to get around them safely.

nope, you are wrong, bikes must stay as far right as possible, except where conditions dictate otherwise (lane closure or road damage). learn the rules before endangering lives. maybe reading the rules governing bike riding would help dispel these misconceptions, I did, that's why I know you are wrong.

[Bosoxfan]

nope, you are wrong, bikes must stay as far right as possible, except where conditions dictate otherwise (lane closure or road damage). learn the rules before endangering lives. maybe reading the rules governing bike riding would help dispel these misconceptions, I did, that's why I know you are wrong.

You probably are right but I'm guessing you're not a cyclist. I ride on the roads after first trying the mmp's .I don't get the workout I'm looking for there.All the stopping & starting just doesn't get it done.Also I found it unsafe with the way some drive their carts.After I tried the mmp's next I went on the shoulder of the roads.Talk about insanity people would be so close to me when passing that I was almost knocked off my bike several times . I'm pretty sure that a 3 foot clearance is the law when passing a bike ! The funny thing is that most of the folks passing me that close had the whole left lane to move over but because the were going to need to be in the right lane in a mile they wouldn' t move over. Then there was the time when I caught up to one of these vehicles at a gate where they had to wait. I asked why they had to pass me so close.The answer I got was the person in the left lane wouldn't let him move over.I asked him if he had brakes and pointed out that slowing down until it was safe to pass me sure would have been nice.
Now I take up the whole right lane.Right or wrong it's the safest way to ride.People get ****ed but I know I'm in control of the way you pass me.Oh I forgot to mention I ride only on 4 lane roads. I also wear bright colors, have flashing lights in front & back & I live in my mirrors. That's my story & I'm sticking to it!

[Sanibel7]

it just amazes me.. Yes you can ride you bikes on the roads in Fla. And yes you can drive your grandchildren around in golf carts without child seats. But why? you have worked your whole life to retire! Why do you want to risk it now just because you can? Please Please Cyclist .. Stop at the stop signs. Grandparents. protect your grandchildren. Driving around 3 thousand pound vehicles in a bike or a golf cart is really not safe. People make mistakes when driving especially when they don't know the rules. Traffic circles etc.. Think twice before you go! Be extra diligent and above all watch out for the other guy.. And be safe!. Please

[alzjr]

nope, you are wrong, bikes must stay as far right as possible, except where conditions dictate otherwise (lane closure or road damage). learn the rules before endangering lives. maybe reading the rules governing bike riding would help dispel these misconceptions, I did, that's why I know you are wrong.

The law does NOT say ride as far right as possible, it says ride as far right as practicable. This means as far right as the cyclist feels safe, as stated by the Orlando Police bicycle patrol.
Buena Vista, Morse south, El Camino Real, and Stillwater have lanes that are 11 feet wide. When a cyclist rides 3 feet from the curb and the bicycle takes up 3 feet and a car (by Florida law) must stay 3 feet away from the side of a bicycle, only leaves 2 feet of lane left. That mean a car must either shrink to 2 feet wide, slow down and follow, or move safely to the other lane.
Another part of that law states bicycles must not ride MORE than 2 abreast. That means it is OK to ride side by side in the State of Florida.

[Jejuca]

Copied right from the state of Florida site - 316.2065 Bicycle regulations:

(5)(a) Any person operating a bicycle upon a roadway at less than the normal speed of traffic at the time and place and under the conditions then existing shall ride in the lane marked for bicycle use or, if no lane is marked for bicycle use, as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway except under any of the following situations:
1. When overtaking and passing another bicycle or vehicle proceeding in the same direction.
2. When preparing for a left turn at an intersection or into a private road or driveway.
3. When reasonably necessary to avoid any condition or potential conflict, including, but not limited to, a fixed or moving object, parked or moving vehicle, bicycle, pedestrian, animal, surface hazard, turn lane, or substandard-width lane, which makes it unsafe to continue along the right-hand curb or edge or within a bicycle lane. For the purposes of this subsection, a “substandard-width lane” is a lane that is too narrow for a bicycle and another vehicle to travel safely side by side within the lane.
(b) Any person operating a bicycle upon a one-way highway with two or more marked traffic lanes may ride as near the left-hand curb or edge of such roadway as practicable.
(6) Persons riding bicycles upon a roadway may not ride more than two abreast except on paths or parts of roadways set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles. Persons riding two abreast may not impede traffic when traveling at less than the normal speed of traffic at the time and place and under the conditions then existing and shall ride within a single lane.

[Mikeod]

nope, you are wrong, bikes must stay as far right as possible, except where conditions dictate otherwise (lane closure or road damage). learn the rules before endangering lives. maybe reading the rules governing bike riding would help dispel these misconceptions, I did, that's why I know you are wrong.
I don't believe the lanes on Morse and Buena Vista are 14 feet wide which FL deems the minimum width to allow cars to pass bikes safely without entering the other lane. Bikes are allowed space from the gutter for safety and visibility, usually about 3 feet. When you add the 3 foot minimum space you must give a bike when passing to the 2.5 feet standard width of a bike and rider, that puts a normal width car into the next lane. Why not make it a completely safe maneuver and just give the bike the entire lane when passing instead of trying to squeeze by and create a stressful situation?

BTW, thanks for the advice, but I don't ride. I just watch out for others when in a car or cart so I don't endanger lives either way.

[Jejuca]

Sorry - I didn't think I could edit my previous post but I could - so this is the same info as my previous post.
Please be kind :) - I don't post very often!

(5)(a) Any person operating a bicycle upon a roadway at less than the normal speed of traffic at the time and place and under the conditions then existing shall ride in the lane marked for bicycle use or, if no lane is marked for bicycle use, as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway except under any of the following situations:
1. When overtaking and passing another bicycle or vehicle proceeding in the same direction.
2. When preparing for a left turn at an intersection or into a private road or driveway.
3. When reasonably necessary to avoid any condition or potential conflict, including, but not limited to, a fixed or moving object, parked or moving vehicle, bicycle, pedestrian, animal, surface hazard, turn lane, or substandard-width lane, which makes it unsafe to continue along the right-hand curb or edge or within a bicycle lane. For the purposes of this subsection, a “substandard-width lane” is a lane that is too narrow for a bicycle and another vehicle to travel safely side by side within the lane.
(b) Any person operating a bicycle upon a one-way highway with two or more marked traffic lanes may ride as near the left-hand curb or edge of such roadway as practicable.
(6) Persons riding bicycles upon a roadway may not ride more than two abreast except on paths or parts of roadways set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles. Persons riding two abreast may not impede traffic when traveling at less than the normal speed of traffic at the time and place and under the conditions then existing and shall ride within a single lane.

[PaPaLarry]

Copied right from the state of Florida site - 316.2065 Bicycle regulations:

(5)(a) Any person operating a bicycle upon a roadway at less than the normal speed of traffic at the time and place and under the conditions then existing shall ride in the lane marked for bicycle use or, if no lane is marked for bicycle use, as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway except under any of the following situations:
1. When overtaking and passing another bicycle or vehicle proceeding in the same direction.
2. When preparing for a left turn at an intersection or into a private road or driveway.
3. When reasonably necessary to avoid any condition or potential conflict, including, but not limited to, a fixed or moving object, parked or moving vehicle, bicycle, pedestrian, animal, surface hazard, turn lane, or substandard-width lane, which makes it unsafe to continue along the right-hand curb or edge or within a bicycle lane. For the purposes of this subsection, a “substandard-width lane” is a lane that is too narrow for a bicycle and another vehicle to travel safely side by side within the lane.
(b) Any person operating a bicycle upon a one-way highway with two or more marked traffic lanes may ride as near the left-hand curb or edge of such roadway as practicable.
(6) Persons riding bicycles upon a roadway may not ride more than two abreast except on paths or parts of roadways set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles. Persons riding two abreast may not impede traffic when traveling at less than the normal speed of traffic at the time and place and under the conditions then existing and shall ride within a single lane.
Good Information!!

[Bonanza]

After reading everything on this thread and the other thread on "Multi-Modal Paths," unless I'm driving in my car, I, too, think I'll walk. Yes,, I'll be walking on someone's grass. Too bad, folks; their ain't no sidewalks and I ain't walking in the street!

[alzjr]

Sorry - I didn't think I could edit my previous post but I could - so this is the same info as my previous post.
Please be kind :) - I don't post very often!

(5)(a) Any person operating a bicycle upon a roadway at less than the normal speed of traffic at the time and place and under the conditions then existing shall ride in the lane marked for bicycle use or, if no lane is marked for bicycle use, as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway except under any of the following situations:
1. When overtaking and passing another bicycle or vehicle proceeding in the same direction.
2. When preparing for a left turn at an intersection or into a private road or driveway.
3. When reasonably necessary to avoid any condition or potential conflict, including, but not limited to, a fixed or moving object, parked or moving vehicle, bicycle, pedestrian, animal, surface hazard, turn lane, or substandard-width lane, which makes it unsafe to continue along the right-hand curb or edge or within a bicycle lane. For the purposes of this subsection, a “substandard-width lane” is a lane that is too narrow for a bicycle and another vehicle to travel safely side by side within the lane.
(b) Any person operating a bicycle upon a one-way highway with two or more marked traffic lanes may ride as near the left-hand curb or edge of such roadway as practicable.
(6) Persons riding bicycles upon a roadway may not ride more than two abreast except on paths or parts of roadways set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles. Persons riding two abreast may not impede traffic when traveling at less than the normal speed of traffic at the time and place and under the conditions then existing and shall ride within a single lane.

The only place in all of The Villages that there is a marked bicycle lane is Morse north of Rt 466. All the diamond marked lanes are designated golf cart lanes, not bicycle lanes, and the multimodal paths are for all modes of transportation. That means bicycles MAY use them but are not REQUIRED to use them.

[Mikeod]

The only place in all of The Villages that there is a marked bicycle lane is Morse north of Rt 466. All the diamond marked lanes are designated golf cart lanes, not bicycle lanes, and the multimodal paths are for all modes of transportation. That means bicycles MAY use them but are not REQUIRED to use them.
I don't think that is correct. The diamond lanes are for bikes and carts. I certainly don't want to push those reclining bikes into the road by restricting the diamond lanes to carts only.

[dewilson58]

No wonder is it is confusing and dangerous.

[tuccillo]

Not quite. On 4 lane roads, bikes can take up an entire lane.

nope, you are wrong, bikes must stay as far right as possible, except where conditions dictate otherwise (lane closure or road damage). learn the rules before endangering lives. maybe reading the rules governing bike riding would help dispel these misconceptions, I did, that's why I know you are wrong.

[Bosoxfan]

Not quite. On 4 lane roads, bikes can take up an entire lane.

Thank you. If:bigbow:

[sunnyatlast]

I don't think that is correct. The diamond lanes are for bikes and carts. I certainly don't want to push those reclining bikes into the road by restricting the diamond lanes to carts only.

That is correct. And then there are people who walk and run in the diamond lanes, when there is a sidewalk right beside it (Canal Street is a good example). So carts come up behind a walker or walkers going two abreast in the diamond lane, and they will NOT move over when the carts have to almost halt behind them because car traffic on their left does not permit them to veer left to go around the walker/runners.

They defy 1200 lb. vehicles going 20mph as if to say, "C'mon. Hit me. Then you'll see who's right." Insanity!

[alzjr]

Florida Department of Transportation
3. Bicycle Lane: A bicycle lane (bike lane) is a portion of a roadway (either with curb and gutter or a flush shoulder) which has been designated by striping, special pavement markings, and signing for the preferential use by bicyclists.

marked with a stripe, and the official symbol on the right. Florida bicycle regulations - 316.2065 (S5a & b) state: - See more at: Bike Lane Safety - Fort Myers, FL Personal Injury Attorney | Spivey Law Firm (http://www.spiveylaw.com/blog/bike-lane-safety/#sthash.erJMSy93.dpuf)

To meet the statute language
To meet the statute language “a lane marked for bicycle use,” the lane must have this stencil in it.

The stencil is the shape of a bicycle, not a diamond.

The only place in The Villages that has this stencil is on Morse north of Rt.466.

[outlaw]

That is correct. And then there are people who walk and run in the diamond lanes, when there is a sidewalk right beside it (Canal Street is a good example). So carts come up behind a walker or walkers going two abreast in the diamond lane, and they will NOT move over when the carts have to almost halt behind them because car traffic on their left does not permit them to veer left to go around the walker/runners.

They defy 1200 lb. vehicles going 20mph as if to say, "C'mon. Hit me. Then you'll see who's right." Insanity!

I think Florida law says you run/walk AGAINST traffic. So those people are on the wrong side of the road to begin with. even if it isn't the law, it is just good old life preserving common sense.

[tuccillo]

The law allows for you to take up an entire lane on a 4 lane road such as Buena Vista. As you pointed out, this is actually the safe thing to do because it forces over taking cars into the left hand passing lane instead of trying to squeeze pass you in the right hand lane with a another car in the left hand lane. Most cyclists come to realize this quickly. Also, on 2 lane roads, moving left into the middle of the lane on curves is also a safe thing to do as it prevents cars from passing you unsafely when there isn't room in the lane for both a car and a cyclist. Most automobile drivers have no idea how scary it is when a cyclist is passed on a curve on a 2-lane road and a car appears in the other lane and the overtaking car nearly clips you trying to avoid a head on collision. Moving left to the middle of the lane on curves is often required for safety and fully permitted by the law. Be safe out there.

You probably are right but I'm guessing you're not a cyclist. I ride on the roads after first trying the mmp's .I don't get the workout I'm looking for there.All the stopping & starting just doesn't get it done.Also I found it unsafe with the way some drive their carts.After I tried the mmp's next I went on the shoulder of the roads.Talk about insanity people would be so close to me when passing that I was almost knocked off my bike several times . I'm pretty sure that a 3 foot clearance is the law when passing a bike ! The funny thing is that most of the folks passing me that close had the whole left lane to move over but because the were going to need to be in the right lane in a mile they wouldn' t move over. Then there was the time when I caught up to one of these vehicles at a gate where they had to wait. I asked why they had to pass me so close.The answer I got was the person in the left lane wouldn't let him move over.I asked him if he had brakes and pointed out that slowing down until it was safe to pass me sure would have been nice.
Now I take up the whole right lane.Right or wrong it's the safest way to ride.People get ****ed but I know I'm in control of the way you pass me.Oh I forgot to mention I ride only on 4 lane roads. I also wear bright colors, have flashing lights in front & back & I live in my mirrors. That's my story & I'm sticking to it!

[Walter123]

Confrontations between golf carts, walkers, bikers and cars last a few seconds most of the time. Be the bigger person and let it go. I try to laugh it off and go on with my day knowing that I did the right thing. No sense letting your blood pressure go up. Sometimes common sense should override the law. Don't be the one in the laying in a hospital bed because you had the "law" on your side. Use your head.

[bobbym]

Walkers face the traffic so they can jump out of the way when a driver gets a phone call but bikes have to go on the right side so there is a slower closing speed between them and the cars and carts.

[CFrance]

Bicyclists ride on the right because they are considered street legal and therefore must follow the traffic laws.

[Polar Bear]

I don't have a dog in this race, but isn't this portion of the rule pretty important...

"Persons riding two abreast may not impede traffic when traveling at less than the normal speed of traffic"?

[sunnyatlast]

I don't have a dog in this race, but isn't this portion of the rule pretty important...

"Persons riding two abreast may not impede traffic when traveling at less than the normal speed of traffic"?

"Traveling less than the normal speed of traffic" is the crux of almost all the problems with cyclists and cars/golf carts.

Next on the list would be cyclists who do not observe stop signs and change lanes while riding thru a roundabout, cutting left in front of a car that is exiting the roundabout to continue going straight on the same street.

[Villages PL]

Sat. I was exiting from Aldi's and turning right onto 441.. As I was making my turn I saw a bicycle coming at me at a high rate of speed, going in the wrong direction against traffic. I had been looking to my left so as to merge with the traffic. I never expected there would be something coming at me from my right.

[tuccillo]

The "problem" is actually cars not respecting the right of cyclists to use the roads and their failure to meet their legal obligation to pass the slower moving cyclist in a safe and lawful manner, just as they would with a slower moving car. Cyclists do often roll through stop signs when it is clear and safe to do so - probably with the same frequency as cars. Cyclists can be invisible in roundabout and are generally interested in getting through the roundabouts as quickly and safely as possible. Just as cars can be seen doing things they shouldn't, so it goes for some cyclists.

"Traveling less than the normal speed of traffic" is the crux of almost all the problems with cyclists and cars/golf carts.

Next on the list would be cyclists who do not observe stop signs and change lanes while riding thru a roundabout, cutting left in front of a car that is exiting the roundabout to continue going straight on the same street.

[Mikeod]

Florida Department of Transportation
3. Bicycle Lane: A bicycle lane (bike lane) is a portion of a roadway (either with curb and gutter or a flush shoulder) which has been designated by striping, special pavement markings, and signing for the preferential use by bicyclists.

marked with a stripe, and the official symbol on the right. Florida bicycle regulations - 316.2065 (S5a & b) state: - See more at: Bike Lane Safety - Fort Myers, FL Personal Injury Attorney | Spivey Law Firm (http://www.spiveylaw.com/blog/bike-lane-safety/#sthash.erJMSy93.dpuf)

To meet the statute language
To meet the statute language “a lane marked for bicycle use,” the lane must have this stencil in it.

The stencil is the shape of a bicycle, not a diamond.

The only place in The Villages that has this stencil is on Morse north of Rt.466.

What you are quoting is what is required for an official bike lane with all the rights and restrictions that ensue. IMO, the diamond lanes within TV are not meant to meet the strict definition of a bike lane in that they are meant for use by other wheeled modes of transportation as well as bikes.


Share the road is a good concept for everyone to follow, whether they be in a cart, on a bike, or on foot. After all, they are your neighbors!

[Chazz]

Sat. I was exiting from Aldi's and turning right onto 441.. As I was making my turn I saw a bicycle coming at me at a high rate of speed, going in the wrong direction against traffic. I had been looking to my left so as to merge with the traffic. I never expected there would be something coming at me from my right.

You described a frightening, and illegal situation that I have seen only once in TV on the north side of Morse. Imagine this happening when you're riding your bike in the correct lane in the correct direction and one of these wrong-way riders comes at you and you have nowhere to go to avoid a collision!

[KeepingItReal]

The "problem" is actually cars not respecting the right of cyclists to use the roads and their failure to meet their legal obligation to pass the slower moving cyclist in a safe and lawful manner, just as they would with a slower moving car. Cyclists do often roll through stop signs when it is clear and safe to do so - probably with the same frequency as cars. Cyclists can be invisible in roundabout and are generally interested in getting through the roundabouts as quickly and safely as possible. Just as cars can be seen doing things they shouldn't, so it goes for some cyclists.

The real problem is that everyone disagrees on what the problem is....:crap2:

[tomwed]

I don't have a dog in this race, but isn't this portion of the rule pretty important...

"Persons riding two abreast may not impede traffic when traveling at less than the normal speed of traffic"?

316.2065 (6) Persons riding bicycles upon a roadway may not ride more than two abreast except on paths or parts of roadways set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles. Persons riding two abreast may not impede traffic when traveling at less than the normal speed of traffic at the time and place and under the conditions then existing and shall ride within a single lane.

The 2-abreast rule only applies to roads on which a single rider can operate side-by-side with a motor vehicle (i.e. a lane 14 ft or wider, or a road with a bike lane). A single cyclist (or single line of cyclists) is entitled to the full use of a lane less than 14 ft wide, therefore it makes no difference in the flow of traffic for riders to be 2-abreast. In many cases it actually facilitates overtaking by reducing in half the distance needed to pass. For more about this, visit the Group Riding page.

[GaryW]

The real problem is that everyone disagrees on what the problem is....:crap2:

:bowdown::beer3: and I say again,, :bowdown:

This battle has been going on for years.. One blames the other and so on. If everyone stops worrying about what someone is doing and pay attention to the road and what they are doing, then there will not be a issue. Everyone from walkers, to cyclist, to golf carts to motorcycles and cars and trucks break the same laws. Flip a coin and take your poison.

Since I am a avid cyclist and ride the roads all the time, I will say the thing I see that be-wilders the be-shizzle out of me is why do the recreational cyclist if you will, the ones on the beach cruisers doing 3 mph and no helments, no protective gear of any sort on, Having a hard time staying on the side of the road much less in a lane..... Why would you ride on the road like that. To me those are the ones that need to stay on the MMP. It is one thing to have cyclist on the road, but not the ones doing 3-5 mph and swerving all over the lane.

Now with that said, they have the same right as I or you have,, but when I ride on the roads usually in a pack try to keep speed above 20 mph at least. when I am riding by myself I will usually ride the MMP to stay out of traffic. JUST A THOUGHT.. :beer3:

[asianthree]

I give the bike a wide berth when passing them. Why my fear is they will hit something in the road fall into my path, and splat.

[CFrance]

:bowdown::beer3: and I say again,, :bowdown:

This battle has been going on for years.. One blames the other and so on. If everyone stops worrying about what someone is doing and pay attention to the road and what they are doing, then there will not be a issue. Everyone from walkers, to cyclist, to golf carts to motorcycles and cars and trucks break the same laws. Flip a coin and take your poison.

Since I am a avid cyclist and ride the roads all the time, I will say the thing I see that be-wilders the be-shizzle out of me is why do the recreational cyclist if you will, the ones on the beach cruisers doing 3 mph and no helments, no protective gear of any sort on, Having a hard time staying on the side of the road much less in a lane..... Why would you ride on the road like that. To me those are the ones that need to stay on the MMP. It is one thing to have cyclist on the road, but not the ones doing 3-5 mph and swerving all over the lane.

Now with that said, they have the same right as I or you have,, but when I ride on the roads usually in a pack try to keep speed above 20 mph at least. when I am riding by myself I will usually ride the MMP to stay out of traffic. JUST A THOUGHT.. :beer3:
Your post says it all. We are/were the recreational riders who swerve all over the road. In MI we could ride miles and miles on paths and never once have to ride on the street. Just the thought of having to ride on TV streets to even get to the MMPs was scary enough that we gave our bikes away and took up pickleball.

[looneycat]

The law allows for you to take up an entire lane on a 4 lane road such as Buena Vista. As you pointed out, this is actually the safe thing to do because it forces over taking cars into the left hand passing lane instead of trying to squeeze pass you in the right hand lane with a another car in the left hand lane. Most cyclists come to realize this quickly. Also, on 2 lane roads, moving left into the middle of the lane on curves is also a safe thing to do as it prevents cars from passing you unsafely when there isn't room in the lane for both a car and a cyclist. Most automobile drivers have no idea how scary it is when a cyclist is passed on a curve on a 2-lane road and a car appears in the other lane and the overtaking car nearly clips you trying to avoid a head on collision. Moving left to the middle of the lane on curves is often required for safety and fully permitted by the law. Be safe out there.

the law I read says you're wrong, please quote the law you're referring to.

[George Bieniaszek]

The laws or rules of the road written on a piece of paper are not going to protect you.

I am very aware of those around me while on the road and follow a simple rule -- I yield to everyone bigger than me!!

I can argue who was right or call the person a bonehead for the idiotic driving maneuver over a beer with friends or on the golf course rather than from a hospital bed, or worse.

[tuccillo]

I can assure you that all cyclists really appreciate that and wish everyone would take the time to give us a wide berth. Thanks you for your patience.

I give the bike a wide berth when passing them. Why my fear is they will hit something in the road fall into my path, and splat.

[tuccillo]

Sorry to disappoint you but cyclists are allowed to take up a lane. Google it yourself.

the law I read says you're wrong, please quote the law you're referring to.

[tomwed]

the law I read says you're wrong, please quote the law you're referring to.
I think he or she found it here. click here (http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0300-0399/0316/Sections/0316.2065.html)
Where is your source?

[tuccillo]

I think this is the third time this person has essentially made the same post only to be rebuked. The law has been posted in this thread already. Go back and reread the posts. If the lane width and/or lane conditions are such that the lane cannot be shared with a car then you don't have to share it with a car - you can, and should, take up the whole lane. It is up to the cyclists to decide since they are the only person who can judge the safety of a lane, although the width part is pretty black and white. I referenced 4 lane road since there would not typically be an issue with slowing down traffic (not that it matters according to the law) but it applies to any road.

I think he or she found it here. click here (http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0300-0399/0316/Sections/0316.2065.html)
Where is your source?

[Polar Bear]

I basically agree with GaryW's earlier post. I ride pretty fast, but I'm not a hard-core rider at all. And I usually ride alone. I would only consider riding on higher speed roads with a group that rides fast. Riding alone or duo, I feel a degree of comfort on the MMP's that I would never feel on the road...irrespective of what the laws and rules are.

[looneycat]

I think he or she found it here. click here (http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0300-0399/0316/Sections/0316.2065.html)
Where is your source?

please point out where it says this as I just read this document and it fully supports what I said.

[looneycat]

I think this is the third time this person has essentially made the same post only to be rebuked. The law has been posted in this thread already. Go back and reread the posts. If the lane width and/or lane conditions are such that the lane cannot be shared with a car then you don't have to share it with a car - you can, and should, take up the whole lane. It is up to the cyclists to decide since they are the only person who can judge the safety of a lane, although the width part is pretty black and white. I referenced 4 lane road since there would not typically be an issue with slowing down traffic (not that it matters according to the law) but it applies to any road.

why would I re-read a POST?? a post is not the law nor are assumptions...unless you believe you are cycling a 35 mpg average and not impeding traffic flow...

[tomwed]

nope, you are wrong, bikes must stay as far right as possible, except where conditions dictate otherwise (lane closure or road damage). learn the rules before endangering lives. maybe reading the rules governing bike riding would help dispel these misconceptions, I did, that's why I know you are wrong.
__________________
looneycat

The 2014 Florida Statutes
Title XXIII
MOTOR VEHICLES
Chapter 316
STATE UNIFORM TRAFFIC CONTROL
(5)(a) Any person operating a bicycle upon a roadway at less than the normal speed of traffic at the time and place and under the conditions then existing shall ride in the lane marked for bicycle use or, if no lane is marked for bicycle use, as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway except under any of the following situations:
3. When reasonably necessary to avoid any condition or potential conflict, including, but not limited to, a fixed or moving object, parked or moving vehicle, bicycle, pedestrian, animal, surface hazard, turn lane, or substandard-width lane, which makes it unsafe to continue along the right-hand curb or edge or within a bicycle lane. For the purposes of this subsection, a “substandard-width lane” is a lane that is too narrow for a bicycle and another vehicle to travel safely side by side within the lane.


Is Buena Vista [for example] a "substandard-width lane"? In my opinion, yes.
Other people say no.
So the way I read the law the bike gets the right lane.

[Shimpy]

I know what the law says but to me a bike is not a licensed vehicle and pays nothing to use the roads as does cars, trucks and motorcycles. I would love for the state to require and issue license plates for a fee to bikes since they insist they have the same right as other licensed vehicles. If they want to use our roads then why not pay like all of us do? I have a motorcycle and have to pay a fee just as I do for my car. Why does bicycles get an exemption?

[alzjr]

I know what the law says but to me a bike is not a licensed vehicle and pays nothing to use the roads as does cars, trucks and motorcycles. I would love for the state to require and issue license plates for a fee to bikes since they insist they have the same right as other licensed vehicles. If they want to use our roads then why not pay like all of us do? I have a motorcycle and have to pay a fee just as I do for my car. Why does bicycles get an exemption?
Do you really think auto registrations pay for all the road maintainence?

[tuccillo]

That not what the law says. Go read it again.

why would I re-read a POST?? a post is not the law nor are assumptions...unless you believe you are cycling a 35 mpg average and not impeding traffic flow...

[dbussone]

Do you really think auto registrations pay for all the road maintainence?


No, but taxes on auto fuel are designated for road development and maintenance. There is no equivalent for bicycles. And I personally do my best to watch for and monitor the movement of cyclists.

[tomwed]

That not what the law says. Go read it again.
I reconsidered and I changed my mind.
I ride on the paths because I know that on Buena Vista someone might clip my elbow with their mirror or I will get a flat riding close to the curb with all the debris. On the path I can always pull over in the grass. I'm in no hurry and just want to not get hurt.

[tuccillo]

If you are looking to complain about some perceived inequity in life, surely you can do better than this. I own 2 cars and pay plenty to support our roads. I won't even get into the amount of sales, fed income tax, or property tax I pay. I also won't get into the massive amount of tax I have paid over the years to support public schools that I never received a direct benefit from. If you want to campaign for "ala carte" taxing, fine, I am with you. But until you do, complaining about bikes not being taxed is just absurd.

I know what the law says but to me a bike is not a licensed vehicle and pays nothing to use the roads as does cars, trucks and motorcycles. I would love for the state to require and issue license plates for a fee to bikes since they insist they have the same right as other licensed vehicles. If they want to use our roads then why not pay like all of us do? I have a motorcycle and have to pay a fee just as I do for my car. Why does bicycles get an exemption?

[dbussone]

I reconsidered and I changed my mind.

I ride on the paths because I know that on Buena Vista someone might clip my elbow with their mirror or I will get a flat riding close to the curb with all the debris. On the path I can always pull over in the grass. I'm in no hurry and just want to not get hurt.


Tom - I'm not in any hurry and I do not want to hurt you...on the road or the path.

[alzjr]

why would I re-read a POST?? a post is not the law nor are assumptions...unless you believe you are cycling a 35 mpg average and not impeding traffic flow...

nope your wrong
standard lane has to be 14 feet wide, lanes here are 11 feet wide (sub-standard)
traffic cannot be impeded because there is a parallel lane to use. the parallel lane can be found a little to the left of the right lane (the lane the bicyclist is using) and is separated from the right lane by a broken white line marked on the pavment between the right and left lanes. since the right lane and the left lane are only 11 feet wide each there is no room for a car and a bicycle to occupy either of the lanes at the same time so they each have to use either the right lane or the left lane but not at the same time. neither can impede traffic flow because the traffic can also use either of the lanes by moving either to the right or the left by crossing the broken white line marked on the pavment between the right lane and the left lane.

[tuccillo]

That is probably why the law is written that way - bikes don't have to hug the right hand part of the lane if it is unsafe to do so. This has been stressed in a film by the Orlando police and is a frequently mentioned safety point made by the Sumter Landing Bike Club: "own the lane". You can take up a whole lane and it is often safer to do so.

I reconsidered and I changed my mind.
I ride on the paths because I know that on Buena Vista someone might clip my elbow with their mirror or I will get a flat riding close to the curb with all the debris. On the path I can always pull over in the grass. I'm in no hurry and just want to not get hurt.

[Chazz]

I reconsidered and I changed my mind.
I ride on the paths because I know that on Buena Vista someone might clip my elbow with their mirror or I will get a flat riding close to the curb with all the debris. On the path I can always pull over in the grass. I'm in no hurry and just want to not get hurt.

You've made a reasonable decision for your safety. However, please consider the following. If you ride lawfully and safely on Buena Vista by not hugging the curb and, in effect, controlling the substandard sized lane (less than 14 feet wide), you will be safer by having cars passing you in the left lane, instead of illegally and unsafely trying to share the substandard lane with you. Whether you're riding on the road or the cart (MMP) path, the same safety principles apply: don't hug the curb or edge of the road; if it's unsafe to share a lane with a car or cart, control the lane. Enjoy the ride!

[dbussone]

nope your wrong

standard lane has to be 14 feet wide, lanes here are 11 feet wide (sub-standard)

traffic cannot be impeded because there is a parallel lane to use. the parallel lane can be found a little to the left of the right lane (the lane the bicyclist is using) and is separated from the right lane by a broken white line marked on the pavment between the right and left lanes. since the right lane and the left lane are only 11 feet wide each there is no room for a car and a bicycle to occupy either of the lanes at the same time so they each have to use either the right lane or the left lane but not at the same time. neither can impede traffic flow because the traffic can also use either of the lanes by moving either to the right or the left by crossing the broken white line marked on the pavment between the right lane and the left lane.


Please- can't we all just watch out for one another? If I had to get out of my vehicle to determine if a lane was standard or not I'd be run over by the bicyclists and cars.

Get a grip folks. The law is "share the road."

[tomwed]

It's not a question of right or wrong, the law or not the law. It's safe or not safe. As long as there are drivers that see a bike as an impediment it's best to be ready to "exit, stage right". You can't do that if there is a curb to your right.
That's why bikers use mirrors.
Even if we all agree that bikers have a right to the right lane, you know there are many thousands out there who will never read these posts, So why take chances? When your loved ones come down to bike won't you tell them to wear a helmet, use their mirror and stay on the paths?

[alzjr]

Please- can't we all just watch out for one another? If I had to get out of my vehicle to determine if a lane was standard or not I'd be run over by the bicyclists and cars.

Get a grip folks. The law is "share the road."
Share with cars, scooters, pedestrians, motorcycles, skaters, and bicycles. Sumter County just REMOVED 21 Share the Road signs in and around The Villages. They just don't get it.

[Challenger]

It's not a question of right or wrong, the law or not the law. It's safe or not safe. As long as there are drivers that see a bike as an impediment it's best to be ready to "exit, stage right". You can't do that if there is a curb to your right.
That's why bikers use mirrors.
Even if we all agree that bikers have a right to the right lane, you know there are many thousands out there who will never read these posts, So why take chances? When your loved ones come down to bike won't you tell them to wear a helmet, use their mirror and stay on the paths?

"But I have a right to be there and do that" was the inscription on his tombstone.:22yikes:

[Walter123]

I'm surprised we don't see more injured or dead bikers. More than a few times I see bikes ride on the part of the road after the golf cart merge with the diagonal stripes coming up to to a light or stop sign instead of waiting in line with the cars and carts. They sit there because they are going straight and interfere with carts and cars wanting to turn right on red. I do my best to let them know it is dangerous, illegal and just plain stupid.

[Mikeod]

I'm surprised we don't see more injured or dead bikers. More than a few times I see bikes ride on the part of the road after the golf cart merge with the diagonal stripes coming up to to a light or stop sign instead of waiting in line with the cars and carts. They sit there because they are going straight and interfere with carts and cars wanting to turn right on red. I do my best to let them know it is dangerous, illegal and just plain stupid.
Not to say you are wrong, but I wonder whether it's a case of damned if you do and damned if you don't. From some posts I've seen in the past, if the bike rider pulled into the regular lane in those cases, there would be a car driver ticked off they were there and not off to the side.

I'm not a bike rider, so I'm just speculating.

[tuccillo]

The goal is to adopt a strategy that will prevent you from getting hit. I believe the biggest threat is getting clipped by a car from behind or having a car make a right turn in front of you. I have seen a car make a right hand turn in front of several cyclists and put them all on the ground and it was the direct result of hugging the right side of the lane and not being visible. The best way to reduce these threats is by being more visible and part of this is not hugging the right hand side of the road all the time. I am not suggesting that you ride in the middle of the lane all the time - I don't. But there are times you need to "own the lane" and the law permits this. You can see this practice at work on Hillsborough Trail on the south side. There is a "diamond" bike and golf cart lane but it disappears before the cross-streets and all traffic must merge into a single lane. This is done to prevent cars from make a right turn in front of bikes and golf carts - everyone is now in the same lane. If someone tries to intimidate you then you should take down their license plate number and call the police.

Not to say you are wrong, but I wonder whether it's a case of damned if you do and damned if you don't. From some posts I've seen in the past, if the bike rider pulled into the regular lane in those cases, there would be a car driver ticked off they were there and not off to the side.

I'm not a bike rider, so I'm just speculating.

[Walter123]

Not to say you are wrong, but I wonder whether it's a case of damned if you do and damned if you don't. From some posts I've seen in the past, if the bike rider pulled into the regular lane in those cases, there would be a car driver ticked off they were there and not off to the side.

I'm not a bike rider, so I'm just speculating.

I hear what you're saying. As for me, I'd rather pee off a car driver and follow the rules of the road than put myself in a very dangerous position. Let's face it, someone is always going to be pee'd off no mater what. I will continue to inform idiots that ride up on those diagonal strips that they could get run over by a car or a golf cart.

[bike42]

Share with cars, scooters, pedestrians, motorcycles, skaters, and bicycles. Sumter County just REMOVED 21 Share the Road signs in and around The Villages. They just don't get it.


"Share the Road" signs were replaced with "Bicycle-Friendly Community" signs. Different message, same meaning!

[Shimpy]

Do you really think auto registrations pay for all the road maintainence?

Where in my post did I mention paying for road maintenance????????

[PaPaLarry]

I think what's needed at this time, is a safety commissioner, to post on this thread, with the correct regulations, and to answer everyone's questions. I'm glad I only ride my bike in the neighborhood, and not out on the roads that I need a lot of caution.

[tomwed]

The 2014 Florida Statutes (http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0300-0399/0316/Sections/0316.2065.html)

just in case the safety person does not get the memo

[GaryW]

I know what the law says but to me a bike is not a licensed vehicle and pays nothing to use the roads as does cars, trucks and motorcycles. I would love for the state to require and issue license plates for a fee to bikes since they insist they have the same right as other licensed vehicles. If they want to use our roads then why not pay like all of us do? I have a motorcycle and have to pay a fee just as I do for my car. Why does bicycles get an exemption?

Not sure I understand this,,, :22yikes:

Are you saying because a bicycle does not have to be registered then they have no right to ride a bike on the road,,, just in the grass I take it????????

Then by your own gesture here, we need to make sure all the unregistered golf carts stay off the roads, and so on,, Kidding right????? Them golf carts have no tag and therefor pay not taxes what so ever.

have we gotten this far in society to where this is the biggest issues around. By golly, this is a retirement communty. I would think all you cats would love having all the people out here riding bikes,,, do what ever to enjoy retirement. Heck go out and walk or jog on the MMP or road side,, Oh Snap, we might have to get registration fees and some kind of tag to do that next.

Everyone relax and love the idea of living the dream of retirement, and enjoy this time. This is just me and just saying... :spoken:

[Shimpy]

Not sure I understand this,,, :22yikes:
:

You're right you don't......I'm not talking about using the golf cart lanes, but bikes using the regular lanes on the road, riding side by side at 10 to 15 mph impeding traffic and insisting they should have 3 feet clearance from passing vehicles by law. I can understand the reason for the 3'. When traffic is heavy you can't go into the other lane to pass to give them their 3' so you have to follow them for who knows how long. Seems very inconsiderate of everyone else on the road.
That is why that if they have the right to use that regular traffic lane then they should have to pay for it as do cars, trucks and motorcycles. Why should a bicycle be exempt?.......If everyone else has to pay to use it then why not you?????

[alzjr]

Tag fees are by weight so the fee for a bicycle would be so low it wouldn't even cover the cost to process the paperwork much less pay for the plate. I would bet most bicycle owners wouldn't mind paying a couple of dollars to keep the right to use roads.

[TheVillageChicken]

You're right you don't......I'm not talking about using the golf cart lanes, but bikes using the regular lanes on the road, riding side by side at 10 to 15 mph impeding traffic and insisting they should have 3 feet clearance from passing vehicles by law. I can understand the reason for the 3'. When traffic is heavy you can't go into the other lane to pass to give them their 3' so you have to follow them for who knows how long. Seems very inconsiderate of everyone else on the road.
That is why that if they have the right to use that regular traffic lane then they should have to pay for it as do cars, trucks and motorcycles. Why should a bicycle be exempt?.......If everyone else has to pay to use it then why not you?????



Road use taxes fall short of the amount needed to offset the damage motor vehicles impose on the roads. The shortfall is made up from general tax revenues which are paid by motorists and cyclists. Since bicycles do an insignificant amount of damage, non-motorists and cyclists are actually the ones being ripped off.

[Chazz]

You're right you don't......I'm not talking about using the golf cart lanes, but bikes using the regular lanes on the road, riding side by side at 10 to 15 mph impeding traffic and insisting they should have 3 feet clearance from passing vehicles by law. I can understand the reason for the 3'. When traffic is heavy you can't go into the other lane to pass to give them their 3' so you have to follow them for who knows how long. Seems very inconsiderate of everyone else on the road.
That is why that if they have the right to use that regular traffic lane then they should have to pay for it as do cars, trucks and motorcycles. Why should a bicycle be exempt?.......If everyone else has to pay to use it then why not you?????

Your proposal would require legislation.

[clekr]

Be real. Don't you think all those bike riders also own cars. Or do you think they go to Public on bikes.