New Bicycle Law effective July 1, 2021

[60North]

Just to share information to all of us: The governor signed into law CS/SB 950 on bicycle and pedestrian safety.

Some of the bicycle provisions that all automobile and golf cart drivers need to know:

1) Providing that no-passing zones do not apply to motorists who safely and briefly drive to the left of center of the roadway to overtake a bicycle, provided that such a passing continues to give the cyclist the necessary three feet passing clearance. If a motorist cannot safely pass at a distance of 3 feet or more, the law clearly states they must wait until a safe moment to pass.

2) Requiring a vehicle making a right turn while overtaking and/or passing a cyclist to do so only if the cyclist is at least 20 feet from the intersection and at a distance that the driver of the vehicle may safely turn. [Trying to prevent what bicyclists refer to as a "right hook"]

3) Authorizing cyclists riding in groups, after coming to a full stop, to go through an intersection in groups of 10 or fewer. Motorists are now required to let one such group pass before proceeding. [This should allow for better traffic flow for all vehicles.]


4) Providing guidelines for riding a bicycle in a substandard width lane and authorizing cyclists to ride two abreast to avoid dangerous conditions. [This allows bicycle groups to shorten up the length of their group, making passing easier for faster motor vehicles]

5) Requires at least 25 questions in the test bank for the driver license test to address bicycle and pedestrian safety.

Hope this clarifies some misunderstandings that will inevitably occur.

Cheers!

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Just to share information to all of us: The governor signed into law CS/SB 950 on bicycle and pedestrian safety.

Some of the bicycle provisions that all automobile and golf cart drivers need to know:

1) Providing that no-passing zones do not apply to motorists who safely and briefly drive to the left of center of the roadway to overtake a bicycle, provided that such a passing continues to give the cyclist the necessary three feet passing clearance. If a motorist cannot safely pass at a distance of 3 feet or more, the law clearly states they must wait until a safe moment to pass.

2) Requiring a vehicle making a right turn while overtaking and/or passing a cyclist to do so only if the cyclist is at least 20 feet from the intersection and at a distance that the driver of the vehicle may safely turn. [Trying to prevent what bicyclists refer to as a "right hook"]

3) Authorizing cyclists riding in groups, after coming to a full stop, to go through an intersection in groups of 10 or fewer. Motorists are now required to let one such group pass before proceeding. [This should allow for better traffic flow for all vehicles.]


4) Providing guidelines for riding a bicycle in a substandard width lane and authorizing cyclists to ride two abreast to avoid dangerous conditions. [This allows bicycle groups to shorten up the length of their group, making passing easier for faster motor vehicles]

5) Requires at least 25 questions in the test bank for the driver license test to address bicycle and pedestrian safety.

Hope this clarifies some misunderstandings that will inevitably occur.

Cheers!

I like #3. But I'd also like to see a "rolling stop" proviso for bicyclists. Even if it is only applicable for cyclists coming to a stop on an incline (hill). I'd also like to see some regulations for e-bicycles, specifically. There've been a few times that I've been cut off by them zipping past at speeds faster than 20mph, on the MMPs.

[Toymeister]

I would like a 'yield to pedestrians in the cross walk' for the SUV who tried to run over my wife in a recumbent at Pinellas Place and 466a yesterday.

No wait, that IS a law already.

Had I not been blocking the SUV with my two wheeled bike you would be reading about her death today. Slow down and LOOK for cyclists!

[Mortal1]

Disagree with the "rolling stop"...anywhere. You want to ride a bike? You have to abide by motor vehicle laws where applicable. Most of the cyclists I observe do NOT do even a rolling stop. If you can't do a track stand then you'll have to put your feet down. If you don't like to have to do that then pick routes that don't have lights or stop signs. Also learn to signal your intent when approaching an intersection. Thanks.

[golfing eagles]

Disagree with the "rolling stop"...anywhere. You want to ride a bike? You have to abide by motor vehicle laws where applicable. Most of the cyclists I observe do NOT do even a rolling stop. If you can't do a track stand then you'll have to put your feet down. If you don't like to have to do that then pick routes that don't have lights or stop signs. Also learn to signal your intent when approaching an intersection. Thanks.

Agree, and would add, in the OP's own summary of the law:

3) Authorizing cyclists riding in groups, after coming to a full stop, to go through an intersection in groups of 10 or fewer. Motorists are now required to let one such group pass before proceeding.

That does NOT mean blow through stop signs in a group of 30.

[Davonu]

Imo, a safe rolling stop proviso for bicyclists would be very reasonable. It is already law in several states.

[DAVES]

Just to share information to all of us: The governor signed into law CS/SB 950 on bicycle and pedestrian safety.

Some of the bicycle provisions that all automobile and golf cart drivers need to know:

1) Providing that no-passing zones do not apply to motorists who safely and briefly drive to the left of center of the roadway to overtake a bicycle, provided that such a passing continues to give the cyclist the necessary three feet passing clearance. If a motorist cannot safely pass at a distance of 3 feet or more, the law clearly states they must wait until a safe moment to pass.

2) Requiring a vehicle making a right turn while overtaking and/or passing a cyclist to do so only if the cyclist is at least 20 feet from the intersection and at a distance that the driver of the vehicle may safely turn. [Trying to prevent what bicyclists refer to as a "right hook"]

3) Authorizing cyclists riding in groups, after coming to a full stop, to go through an intersection in groups of 10 or fewer. Motorists are now required to let one such group pass before proceeding. [This should allow for better traffic flow for all vehicles.]


4) Providing guidelines for riding a bicycle in a substandard width lane and authorizing cyclists to ride two abreast to avoid dangerous conditions. [This allows bicycle groups to shorten up the length of their group, making passing easier for faster motor vehicles]

5) Requires at least 25 questions in the test bank for the driver license test to address bicycle and pedestrian safety.

Hope this clarifies some misunderstandings that will inevitably occur.

Cheers!

REALITY. Law is an attempt to deal with reality. To do that it assumes that people will know the law and follow it. We all know from life experience that is not so.

People, so typical read the posts on any thread. All are why I am right and everyone not me is wrong. Simply explains why the conflicts.

[golfing eagles]

REALITY. Law is an attempt to deal with reality. To do that it assumes that people will know the law and follow it. We all know from life experience that is not so.

People, so typical read the posts on any thread. All are why I am right and everyone not me is wrong. Simply explains why the conflicts.

Indeed it does :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[Skunky1]

If you want to use the crosswalk get off your bike and walk

[Skunky1]

It is beyond my understanding why a cyclist would like to be in competition with a 6500 pound vehicle on these roadways in the villages.

[Girlcopper]

I would like a 'yield to pedestrians in the cross walk' for the SUV who tried to run over my wife in a recumbent at Pinellas Place and 466a yesterday.

No wait, that IS a law already.

Had I not been blocking the SUV with my two wheeled bike you would be reading about her death today. Slow down and LOOK for cyclists!
Your wife isnt a pedestrian when shes on a bike and was she riding or walking it across the street? How about giving more detailed info rather than slamming the suv drivet

[The Man]

I hope #2 “right hook “ would apply to cars overtaking golf carts. I’ve had several close calls when cars” right hook” me turning into gates and streets. =60North;1971709]Just to share information to all of us: The governor signed into law CS/SB 950 on bicycle and pedestrian safety.

Some of the bicycle provisions that all automobile and golf cart drivers need to know:

1) Providing that no-passing zones do not apply to motorists who safely and briefly drive to the left of center of the roadway to overtake a bicycle, provided that such a passing continues to give the cyclist the necessary three feet passing clearance. If a motorist cannot safely pass at a distance of 3 feet or more, the law clearly states they must wait until a safe moment to pass.

2) Requiring a vehicle making a right turn while overtaking and/or passing a cyclist to do so only if the cyclist is at least 20 feet from the intersection and at a distance that the driver of the vehicle may safely turn. [Trying to prevent what bicyclists refer to as a "right hook"]

3) Authorizing cyclists riding in groups, after coming to a full stop, to go through an intersection in groups of 10 or fewer. Motorists are now required to let one such group pass before proceeding. [This should allow for better traffic flow for all vehicles.]


4) Providing guidelines for riding a bicycle in a substandard width lane and authorizing cyclists to ride two abreast to avoid dangerous conditions. [This allows bicycle groups to shorten up the length of their group, making passing easier for faster motor vehicles]

5) Requires at least 25 questions in the test bank for the driver license test to address bicycle and pedestrian safety.

Hope this clarifies some misunderstandings that will inevitably occur.

Cheers![/QUOTE]

[Billy1]

Bicycles should have license plates so the riders actions can be recorded and reported. Bicyclist are very dangerous and a tragedy is coming.

[J1ceasar]

And yet the other day A large group of bicyclists did not pull over to let me pass they were riding six or eight of breast taking up the full Lane

[GRACEALLEMAN]

Just to share information to all of us: The governor signed into law CS/SB 950 on bicycle and pedestrian safety.

Some of the bicycle provisions that all automobile and golf cart drivers need to know:

1) Providing that no-passing zones do not apply to motorists who safely and briefly drive to the left of center of the roadway to overtake a bicycle, provided that such a passing continues to give the cyclist the necessary three feet passing clearance. If a motorist cannot safely pass at a distance of 3 feet or more, the law clearly states they must wait until a safe moment to pass.

2) Requiring a vehicle making a right turn while overtaking and/or passing a cyclist to do so only if the cyclist is at least 20 feet from the intersection and at a distance that the driver of the vehicle may safely turn. [Trying to prevent what bicyclists refer to as a "right hook"]

3) Authorizing cyclists riding in groups, after coming to a full stop, to go through an intersection in groups of 10 or fewer. Motorists are now required to let one such group pass before proceeding. [This should allow for better traffic flow for all vehicles.]


4) Providing guidelines for riding a bicycle in a substandard width lane and authorizing cyclists to ride two abreast to avoid dangerous conditions. [This allows bicycle groups to shorten up the length of their group, making passing easier for faster motor vehicles]

5) Requires at least 25 questions in the test bank for the driver license test to address bicycle and pedestrian safety.

Hope this clarifies some misunderstandings that will inevitably occur.

Cheers!

Thanks for posting, my husband and I ride our bikes almost every day, we have been almost hit several times by inconsiderate golf cart drivers. They continued to go around with little or no space and almost hit us very very close calls around curves, without waiting no patience, beeping, it's horrible.
None will observe or read these rules.

[Donegalkid]

Just to share information to all of us: The governor signed into law CS/SB 950 on bicycle and pedestrian safety.

Some of the bicycle provisions that all automobile and golf cart drivers need to know:

1) Providing that no-passing zones do not apply to motorists who safely and briefly drive to the left of center of the roadway to overtake a bicycle, provided that such a passing continues to give the cyclist the necessary three feet passing clearance. If a motorist cannot safely pass at a distance of 3 feet or more, the law clearly states they must wait until a safe moment to pass.

2) Requiring a vehicle making a right turn while overtaking and/or passing a cyclist to do so only if the cyclist is at least 20 feet from the intersection and at a distance that the driver of the vehicle may safely turn. [Trying to prevent what bicyclists refer to as a "right hook"]

3) Authorizing cyclists riding in groups, after coming to a full stop, to go through an intersection in groups of 10 or fewer. Motorists are now required to let one such group pass before proceeding. [This should allow for better traffic flow for all vehicles.]


4) Providing guidelines for riding a bicycle in a substandard width lane and authorizing cyclists to ride two abreast to avoid dangerous conditions. [This allows bicycle groups to shorten up the length of their group, making passing easier for faster motor vehicles]

5) Requires at least 25 questions in the test bank for the driver license test to address bicycle and pedestrian safety.

Hope this clarifies some misunderstandings that will inevitably occur.

Cheers!

Thanks! An excerpt and explanation of bike laws prior to the 7/1/21 changes. Much of it still applies. Note bikes can use sidewalks and crosswalks in FL. The link provides more good explanation.

“What Rules of the Road Must a Bicyclist Follow in Florida?

That depends on where you are riding. If you are riding on the street, you must obey the same traffic laws and rules of the road as the drivers of motor vehicles as well as laws about bicyclists. This requirement includes yielding to all traffic signs and signals. Despite what you may see some other bicyclists doing, you must stop for stoplights and stop signs. You cannot go through a red light even if there is no traffic coming.
If, however, you are riding your bike on a sidewalk or in a crosswalk, Florida law will treat you as a pedestrian. In that situation, you must follow all the Florida laws that apply to walkers, and you have the same rights as them, except that you must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians and call out before passing them.”

Source: Florida Bicycle Laws: What Drivers & Cyclists Should Know (https://monterolaw.com/news/florida-bicycle-laws-drivers-cyclists-know)

[Babubhat]

In five years I have yet to see a bicycle obey a stop sign.

[Tim C.]

bikes that run through stop signs aren't just a danger to themselves and others, but **** me off. its a sort of arrogance. especially the ones that wear shirts like they are training for the Olympics or something - we used to call them "Spandex Douchebags" on the Pinellas County trails.

[Laker14]

Generally, good laws. Generally, nothing in there that a reasonably considerate person wouldn't abide by naturally. Unfortunately, actually writing the laws down and making it all "legal" does little to change behaviors. Mostly, all it accomplishes is a methodology to settle arguments over who is right and who is wrong, and even then it often doesn't work. Case in point, the poster who on another thread bragged that he/she refused to turn left at a blinking yellow arrow, even if he/she could clearly see no oncoming traffic. The law is written down, but that person refuses to abide by it. So, be careful, be patient. Try not to hurt anybody, and try not to get hurt.

[Art cov]

Everyone, no matter the means of transportation, must be on alert. Driving, riding, jogging, and walking, please be careful. Please, when out having a few drinks, DO NOT GET BEHIND THE WHEEL! You could regret something for the rest of your life

[brianherlihy]

take all sins down and stop lights down and go for it

[HogPilot]

If you want to use the crosswalk get off your bike and walk

In some states, that is the law. You have to walk the bike.

[tvbound]

In five years I have yet to see a bicycle obey a stop sign.

That isn't just a problem down there, it applies to every place I've ever lived or visited. While I make sure to give cyclists a minimum of 3 feet and to watch them closely to not put them in danger should they wobble or have another problem (instant flat tire), the double-standard gets old. Almost all of them are not shy about reminding non-bikers about the laws, yet when it comes to obeying traffic signs and signals that also apply to them - all too many feel entitled to completely ignore them. Still, I love watching the Tour de France every year. lol

[blueash]

We have a conflict in this thread.

Girlcopper who I would suspect is a cop writes with absolute certainty

Your wife isnt a pedestrian when shes on a bike and was she riding or walking it across the street? How about giving more detailed info rather than slamming the suv drivet

Then Donegalkid writes citing a website:

If, however, you are riding your bike on a sidewalk or in a crosswalk, Florida law will treat you as a pedestrian. In that situation, you must follow all the Florida laws that apply to walkers, and you have the same rights as them

One of you is wrong. One of you cited a source from an attorney who practices in Florida. The other simply made a definitive statement that a person is not a pedestrian when crossing the street at a crosswalk and demanded to know whether the person was on the bike or walking the bike. It turns out, if the lawyer knows the law, that it does not matter. On the bike or off the bike, if you are crossing a street at a crosswalk you are a pedestrian under Florida law.

This is a perfect example of why it is a good idea to include a citation in your posts. Turns out the cop is wrong if the lawyer is right. To see the actual law go HERE (http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0300-0399/0316/Sections/0316.2065.html) and read section (9)

[frank1975]

Most auto drivers know and abide by this. Now the golf cart drivers are something else. In fact most don't think a walker, jogger or biker should be on the trails. Most will not give 3 feet clearance. It's a sad situation this has turned into. This will continue until someone gets killed.

[kendi]

I would like a 'yield to pedestrians in the cross walk' for the SUV who tried to run over my wife in a recumbent at Pinellas Place and 466a yesterday.

No wait, that IS a law already.

Had I not been blocking the SUV with my two wheeled bike you would be reading about her death today. Slow down and LOOK for cyclists!

I fear for those who ride the recumbent bikes. They are not easy to see even with the flag. Especially if they are riding rather than walking across the street.
BTW, your picture makes it hard to take you seriously. Grumpy.

[Windguy]

Disagree with the "rolling stop"...anywhere. You want to ride a bike? You have to abide by motor vehicle laws where applicable. Most of the cyclists I observe do NOT do even a rolling stop. If you can't do a track stand then you'll have to put your feet down. If you don't like to have to do that then pick routes that don't have lights or stop signs. Also learn to signal your intent when approaching an intersection. Thanks.

{sarcasm}Isn’t just annoying how cyclists think yielding at intersections and not coming to a complete stop is OK, but motorists always come to a complete stop and lock their brakes at stop signs?{/sarcasm}

[Windguy]

And yet the other day A large group of bicyclists did not pull over to let me pass they were riding six or eight of breast taking up the full Lane
The law is that if the lane is less than 14’ wide, the cyclists own the whole lane. There are no lanes in TV that are 14’ wide. That was what point 4 was in the original post. And, we never ride six wide. What you saw was an illusion as the riders were shifted forward and backward from each other, but they might have looked six wide from your point behind the group.

[Chellybean]

You can't fix stupid and drivers in cars and carts think they own the road and will continue to treat bikers as having NO rights on the road. That's the Entitled attitude of the Villages, JMHO
P.S. Golf cart path seems to be worse to ride than the roads, its a crap shoot in the villages!

[golfing eagles]

{sarcasm}Isn’t just annoying how cyclists think yielding at intersections and not coming to a complete stop is OK, but motorists always come to a complete stop and lock their brakes at stop signs?{/sarcasm}

Sarcasm noted and appreciated.

Personally, I think coming to an absolute complete stop at a stop sign with no one around is a total waste of time, does nothing to improve safety, and as stated above, not practiced by most drivers of anything with wheels.

I also think 90% of the stop signs on MMPs should be yield signs---they are being treated that way anyway.

That being said, the yield signs should be STRICTLY OBEYED. Want to guess the number one cause of all accidents???? That's right, it is FAILURE TO YIELD THE RIGHT OF WAY.

There are many great examples:

*****On the BV MMP headed north from the Hillsborough gate, you round the curve and have the option of going straight or making a left to go through the tunnel to get to Hendry. There have been severe accidents and many near misses because the person making the left to the tunnel fails to yield to the southbound cart. Because it is only a 30 degree left turn, many think they are going straight and not turning left. They need a sign similar to that by the tunnel under Morse at Saratoga that states "left hand turn yield to straight traffic"
*****Just about any RB as you round towards your exit, a pack of 30 cyclists will blow through the yield sign right in front of you as a single entity. I love to see their faces as I pull up to 3 feet short of them as I lean on the horn. It's like "who, me? I was just playing follow the leader"
*****Then of course , there is the perennial nightmare of the Morse/Paige Pl. RB
*****The tendency of other cart drivers on roads with a cart lane to run right through a stop sign of a side street to get in front of you (and then usually crawl at 13 mph)
*****Then there's the drivers and cyclists who don't bother to stop or yield when exiting a tunnel. This applies to the occasional car that exits a tunnel on a MMP as well

And there's plenty more like this
Bottom line I rather see rolling stops at stop signs than failure to yield when required.

[Ben Franklin]

I'm going to push for skate boards, roller blades, and golf carts to all share the road with bicyclist. If bikes can use the roads designed for safe and efficient flow of vehicle traffic, than anything with wheels should be allowed on roads. Right?

[Laker14]

I'm going to push for skate boards, roller blades, and golf carts to all share the road with bicyclist. If bikes can use the roads designed for safe and efficient flow of vehicle traffic, than anything with wheels should be allowed on roads. Right?

Right.

[Sherry8bal]

Bicyclists in The Villages think they DON'T have to STOP at ANY stop sign here. They break all kinds of laws.

[Villagesgal]

And yet the other day A large group of bicyclists did not pull over to let me pass they were riding six or eight of breast taking up the full Lane

I'm sure that is quite an exaggeration, 6 or 8 cyclists can not fit into one lane when next to each other, 3 is even tight. Also, they do not have to move over to let you pass. Read the new law.

[Villagesgal]

Bicyclists in The Villages think they DON'T have to STOP at ANY stop sign here. They break all kinds of laws.

Not ALL bicyclists. Many driver's here in the Villages also don't stop at stop signs and break all kinds of laws, so what is your point? Terrible driver's and cyclists move to the Villages? Or were you just venting?

[Windguy]

In five years I have yet to see a bicycle obey a stop sign.

Are you the one in a thousand who comes to a complete stop in your car at every stop sign? If so, my hat's off to you!

[GrumpyOldMan]

Sarcasm noted and appreciated.

Personally, I think coming to an absolute complete stop at a stop sign with no one around is a total waste of time, does nothing to improve safety, and as stated above, not practiced by most drivers of anything with wheels.

I also think 90% of the stop signs on MMPs should be yield signs---they are being treated that way anyway.

That being said, the yield signs should be STRICTLY OBEYED. Want to guess the number one cause of all accidents???? That's right, it is FAILURE TO YIELD THE RIGHT OF WAY.

There are many great examples:

*****On the BV MMP headed north from the Hillsborough gate, you round the curve and have the option of going straight or making a left to go through the tunnel to get to Hendry. There have been severe accidents and many near misses because the person making the left to the tunnel fails to yield to the southbound cart. Because it is only a 30 degree left turn, many think they are going straight and not turning left. They need a sign similar to that by the tunnel under Morse at Saratoga that states "left hand turn yield to straight traffic"
*****Just about any RB as you round towards your exit, a pack of 30 cyclists will blow through the yield sign right in front of you as a single entity. I love to see their faces as I pull up to 3 feet short of them as I lean on the horn. It's like "who, me? I was just playing follow the leader"
*****Then of course , there is the perennial nightmare of the Morse/Paige Pl. RB
*****The tendency of other cart drivers on roads with a cart lane to run right through a stop sign of a side street to get in front of you (and then usually crawl at 13 mph)
*****Then there's the drivers and cyclists who don't bother to stop or yield when exiting a tunnel. This applies to the occasional car that exits a tunnel on a MMP as well

And there's plenty more like this
Bottom line I rather see rolling stops at stop signs than failure to yield when required.

That’s your opinion, there is decades of data and countless traffic engineers that would disagree. However, if you roll through a stop because you did not see the oncoming motorcycle and it results in a death, you should be charged with reckless homicide.

I am all for replacing all intersections with round-abouts. But as long as there are stops signs. It is important to stop.

[Windguy]

bikes that run through stop signs aren't just a danger to themselves and others, but **** me off. its a sort of arrogance. especially the ones that wear shirts like they are training for the Olympics or something - we used to call them "Spandex Douchebags" on the Pinellas County trails.

Wow. What a nice guy! And, such an open mind! Talk about arrogance...

I can't speak for the casual cyclist who doesn't know the rules of the road and foolishly rides without a helmet, but I assure you that there is exactly zero arrogance involved with serious cyclists. Unlike you, we know the rules of the road with regards to cycling and we do what is safest for us and people around us and we don't pull out in front of motorists and are not a danger. We are not just cyclists, but we are motorists, too, and we have a much better idea of what is safe than you do.

And we "Spandex Douchebags" wear cycling jerseys for damn good reasons. When riding 30-50 miles at 15-20 mph, it is necessary to stay cool. A cotton t-shirt won't do that. The jerseys are also more visible than a standard t-shirt. They have tight sleeves and necks to prevent wind and insects from getting underneath. Nothing like having a ****ed off hornet inside your shirt!

[Bill14564]

And yet the other day A large group of bicyclists did not pull over to let me pass they were riding six or eight of breast taking up the full Lane

The law is that if the lane is less than 14’ wide, the cyclists own the whole lane. There are no lanes in TV that are 14’ wide. That was what point 4 was in the original post. And, we never ride six wide. What you saw was an illusion as the riders were shifted forward and backward from each other, but they might have looked six wide from you point behind the group.

Agree that "six or eight of breast [sic]" is an exaggeration but "own the whole lane" is a rather strong interpretation of the words in the law.

I wonder what road this was on. Where in TV, and outside the squares, is there a roadway used by large groups of bicyclists that does not have a bicycle/MMP lane? No, there is no MMP or bicycle lane on my street but it is so short that a car would not have room to pass a group of eight bicyclists anyway.

[ThehappypeopleLOL]

Florida law 316.130(7) prohibits interfering with a pedestrian lawfully in the crosswalk. If there are no traffic control signals or signs, the driver MUST YIELD to a pedestrian in the crosswalk. To help motorists comply with Florida law The Villages should install crosswalk signs at all crossings for pedestrian safety.

[golfing eagles]

That’s your opinion, there is decades of data and countless traffic engineers that would disagree. However, if you roll through a stop because you did not see the oncoming motorcycle and it results in a death, you should be charged with reckless homicide.

I am all for replacing all intersections with round-abouts. But as long as there are stops signs. It is important to stop.

Care to cite any of them?????
Also, I believe the number of traffic engineers, past , present and future are finite, and therefore not "countless":1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:
Also, since I'm in a picky mood, decades is a pleural, therefore there ARE decades of data...

[Bill14564]

Florida law 316.130(7) prohibits interfering with a pedestrian lawfully in the crosswalk. If there are no traffic control signals or signs, the driver MUST YIELD to a pedestrian in the crosswalk. To help motorists comply with Florida law The Villages should install crosswalk signs at all crossings for pedestrian safety.

No! Don't litter the area with useless signs.

Anyone who cares knows that pedestrians have the right of way in a crosswalk - they don't need dozens of signs to remind them.

Anyone who doesn't care won't be convinced to care just because there are now dozens of new signs.

[golfing eagles]

Florida law 316.130(7) prohibits interfering with a pedestrian lawfully in the crosswalk. If there are no traffic control signals or signs, the driver MUST YIELD to a pedestrian in the crosswalk. To help motorists comply with Florida law The Villages should install crosswalk signs at all crossings for pedestrian safety.

Florida statute 316.130(2) prohibits pedestrians from walking on any paved roadway intended for vehicular traffic when a sidewalk is available. Let's enforce that one first and get these rocket scientists off the cart/bicycle paths.

[Bill14564]

That’s your opinion, there is decades of data and countless traffic engineers that would disagree. However, if you roll through a stop because you did not see the oncoming motorcycle and it results in a death, you should be charged with reckless homicide.

I am all for replacing all intersections with round-abouts. But as long as there are stops signs. It is important to stop.

But if you first stopped at a stop sign and then proceeded because you did not see the oncoming motorcycle and it results in a death, then you should NOT be charged with reckless homicide? Seems like the problem was entering the intersection into the path of the oncoming motorcycle and not whether your tires stopped rotating for some undefined period of time.

[Windguy]

Agree that "six or eight of breast [sic]" is an exaggeration but "own the whole lane" is a rather strong interpretation of the words in the law.

I wonder what road this was on. Where in TV, and outside the squares, is there a roadway used by large groups of bicyclists that does not have a bicycle/MMP lane? No, there is no MMP or bicycle lane on my street but it is so short that a car would not have room to pass a group of eight bicyclists anyway.

As someone who rode MMPs for years before switching to the boulevards, I assure you that the roads are actually safer than the MMPs. Plus, it's hard to get a 50-mile ride into just a few hours if on the MMPs.

Yes, we **** off some nasty motorists when on the roads, but we also **** off the cart riders on the MMPS. No matter where we ride, we annoy motorists. Would you like us to do 5000 trips around our driveways so we don't delay you by 30 seconds? I could probably get it done in 10-12 hours, but it would be dangerous to circle so slowly in such a tight space.

[Michael G.]

I would like a 'yield to pedestrians in the cross walk' for the SUV who tried to run over my wife in a recumbent at Pinellas Place and 466a yesterday.



Sorry, with all due respect for riders, walkers etc. riding those recumbents anywhere near
5000 lb. vehicle traffic lanes, (even with a 20' flag), you have to have a death wish.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Florida law 316.130(7) prohibits interfering with a pedestrian lawfully in the crosswalk. If there are no traffic control signals or signs, the driver MUST YIELD to a pedestrian in the crosswalk. To help motorists comply with Florida law The Villages should install crosswalk signs at all crossings for pedestrian safety.

It's also important to know that this does NOT give the right for pedestrians to just start crossing at the crosswalk while cars are already approaching it.

If you're already in the crosswalk, cars MUST stop to let you get to the other side. If you're not in the crosswalk yet, you MUST wait until it's safe to do so. It sounds like a no-brainer but apparently it needs to be said. There are people who will just start walking without even trying to look for oncoming traffic, because they just assume people will stop for them. Most of the time people WILL stop for them. But sometimes they don't. And if you are one of the people who is sent to the hospital because you stepped off the curb WHILE someone was already on his way through, you don't get to say "I had the right of way" in the lawsuit.

[Bill14564]

Agree that "six or eight of breast [sic]" is an exaggeration but "own the whole lane" is a rather strong interpretation of the words in the law.

I wonder what road this was on. Where in TV, and outside the squares, is there a roadway used by large groups of bicyclists that does not have a bicycle/MMP lane? No, there is no MMP or bicycle lane on my street but it is so short that a car would not have room to pass a group of eight bicyclists anyway.

As someone who rode MMPs for years before switching to the boulevards, I assure you that the roads are actually safer than the MMPs. Plus, it's hard to get a 50-mile ride into just a few hours if on the MMPs.

....

Fair enough. I wasn't thinking about the major, multi-lane roads (BV, Morse, 466x). Since there are two lanes available, vehicles should not be impeded by bicyclists on those roads anyway. I'm surprised that the lanes on those roads are narrower than 14' but I'm not likely to go measure them.

[golfing eagles]

It's also important to know that this does NOT give the right for pedestrians to just start crossing at the crosswalk while cars are already approaching it.

If you're already in the crosswalk, cars MUST stop to let you get to the other side. If you're not in the crosswalk yet, you MUST wait until it's safe to do so. It sounds like a no-brainer but apparently it needs to be said. There are people who will just start walking without even trying to look for oncoming traffic, because they just assume people will stop for them. Most of the time people WILL stop for them. But sometimes they don't. And if you are one of the people who is sent to the hospital because you stepped off the curb WHILE someone was already on his way through, you don't get to say "I had the right of way" in the lawsuit.

Absolutely, positively 100% correct (except in California)

[Dan9871]

Care to cite any of them?????
Also, I believe the number of traffic engineers, past , present and future are finite, and therefore not "countless":1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:
Also, since I'm in a picky mood, decades is a pleural, therefore there ARE decades of data...

Since your are in a picky mood... being countable and finite are not the same things.

Thanks to Georg Cantor we know that there are countable and uncountable infinities. Among other things Probability and Alan Turing's "On Computable Numbers..." depend an infinite set of elements that is countable. The integers represent a countably infinite set of elements but the real numbers do not.

:duck:

[golfing eagles]

Since your are in a picky mood... being countable and finite are not the same things.

Thanks to Georg Cantor we know that there are countable and uncountable infinities. Among other things Probability and Alan Turing's "On Computable Numbers..." depend an infinite set of elements that is countable. The integers represent a countably infinite set of elements but the real numbers do not.

:duck:

I concede---you "out-pickied" me:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[golfing eagles]

Fair enough. I wasn't thinking about the major, multi-lane roads (BV, Morse, 466x). Since there are two lanes available, vehicles should not be impeded by bicyclists on those roads anyway. I'm surprised that the lanes on those roads are narrower than 14' but I'm not likely to go measure them.

I did about 2 years ago when the Florida Cyclist Assoc. adopted a "own the road" policy.
The cyclists are correct, the lanes are just under 12 feet on Morse by Sarasota. (wasn't willing to go measure a bunch of places)

[toeser]

If you want to use the crosswalk get off your bike and walk

That is not required by the law.

[toeser]

Thanks! An excerpt and explanation of bike laws prior to the 7/1/21 changes. Much of it still applies. Note bikes can use sidewalks and crosswalks in FL. The link provides more good explanation.

“What Rules of the Road Must a Bicyclist Follow in Florida?

That depends on where you are riding. If you are riding on the street, you must obey the same traffic laws and rules of the road as the drivers of motor vehicles as well as laws about bicyclists. This requirement includes yielding to all traffic signs and signals. Despite what you may see some other bicyclists doing, you must stop for stoplights and stop signs. You cannot go through a red light even if there is no traffic coming.
If, however, you are riding your bike on a sidewalk or in a crosswalk, Florida law will treat you as a pedestrian. In that situation, you must follow all the Florida laws that apply to walkers, and you have the same rights as them, except that you must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians and call out before passing them.”

Source: Florida Bicycle Laws: What Drivers & Cyclists Should Know (https://monterolaw.com/news/florida-bicycle-laws-drivers-cyclists-know)

"You cannot go through a red light even if there is no traffic coming."

I am forced to break that law occasionally at intersections where a light for a side street turns green only when tripped by a car. I will cross only if no cars are even in sight. I think it's unreasonable to require a biker to sit there until a car comes along and trips the stop-light. In some places and at some times of day, that can be a very long wait.

[toeser]

In some states, that is the law. You have to walk the bike.

We are not in those states. We are in Florida.

[Toymeister]

Your wife isnt a pedestrian when shes on a bike and was she riding or walking it across the street? How about giving more detailed info rather than slamming the suv drivet

In the state of Florida, you are considered a pedestrian on your bicycle, unless you travel on the roadway with other motorists. Source: https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.lipconlawfirm.com/is-a-bicyclist-considered-a-pedestrian-in-florida/%23:~:text%3DIn%2520the%2520state%2520of%2520Flori da%252C%2520you%2520are%2520considered%2520a%2520p edestrian,are%2520also%2520considered%2520a%2520ve hicle.&ved=2ahUKEwi64sHcuODxAhXsTDABHaPNDyEQFjABegQIAxAF&usg=AOvVaw21W0DUTo-_cOgYFby90hoH

But to be Uber specific we used the signal controlled crosswalk and crossed with the signal in the painted, designated cross walk lane when a SUV attempted to run us over. Even more specifically, do automobiles have to yield to pedestrians in a cross walk'? Why yes they do in every state in the union and every US possession. Still more questions? Florida statute 316.130(7) requires drivers to stop for pedestrians who are in a crosswalk with a walk signal.

Not sure why this is a difficult concept to grasp but if it is please voluntary turn in your driver's license before you maim or kill someone. You no longer have the ability to hold a license and safety share the road with the rest of us.

[Toymeister]

In some states, that is the law. You have to walk the bike.

Not in Florida, but again in every state every driver MUST yield to pedestrians. Do you have any more with comments?

[Toymeister]

I fear for those who ride the recumbent bikes. They are not easy to see even with the flag. Especially if they are riding rather than walking across the street.
BTW, your picture makes it hard to take you seriously. Grumpy.

Very true. This is why I always ride 'defensive guard' for her. Immediately to her left on multi modal paths to prevent carts from driving into her while attempting to pass or running a block in parking lots or anywhere near motor vehicles.

But remember we are, as members of this community, getting older. Not everyone can ride a two wheeled bike.

Look, be aware of your surroundings and look again.

[golfing eagles]

In the state of Florida, you are considered a pedestrian on your bicycle, unless you travel on the roadway with other motorists. Source: https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.lipconlawfirm.com/is-a-bicyclist-considered-a-pedestrian-in-florida/%23:~:text%3DIn%2520the%2520state%2520of%2520Flori da%252C%2520you%2520are%2520considered%2520a%2520p edestrian,are%2520also%2520considered%2520a%2520ve hicle.&ved=2ahUKEwi64sHcuODxAhXsTDABHaPNDyEQFjABegQIAxAF&usg=AOvVaw21W0DUTo-_cOgYFby90hoH

But to be Uber specific we used the signal controlled crosswalk and crossed with the signal in the painted, designated cross walk lane when a SUV attempted to run us over. Even more specifically, do automobiles have to yeild to pedestrians in a cross walk'? Why yes they do in every state in the union and every US possession. Still more questions? Florida statute 316.130(7) requires drivers to stop for pedestrians who are in a crosswalk with a walk signal.

Girlhopper please voluntary turn in your driver's license before you main or kill someone. You no longer have the ability to hold a license and safety share the road with the rest of us.

Can I assume since this occurred at Pinellas and 466A we are talking about Pinellas Plaza and the traffic light at the east entrance???? If you were crossing with the light, that means the SUV ran a red light. Is that correct???

[Toymeister]

Can I assume since this occurred at Pinellas and 466A we are talking about Pinellas Plaza and the traffic light at the east entrance???? If you were crossing with the light, that means the SUV ran a red light. Is that correct???

I don't know what the driver saw other than we were crossing with a crosswalk signal in a designated crosswalk lane. I do know they attempted to run us over.

If they had how would this have played out for the motorist? Failure to yield for a pedestrian. On civil side this would be negligence. Pretty clear cut.

Ask yourself, as a driver, is it worth it to lose everything that you own, everything that you have worked for your entire life to harm a cyclist or 'cut it close' because you are irritated, in a rush, or convinced you are correct? Is it the right thing to do, to teach 'the spandex crowd a lesson", ever?

[Happydaz]

Sorry, with all due respect for riders, walkers etc. riding those recumbents anywhere near
5000 lb. vehicle traffic lanes, (even with a 20' flag), you have to have a death wish.

Enough of the “death wish” nonsense. More people die from obesity related diseases than people were ever killed exercising. Gluttony is alive and well in the Villages. In the USA today the most recent three year average from the CDC shows that the average adult male 20 years old and older comes in at a porky 199.8 pounds! The average female over 20 hits the scale at a 170.1 pounds! Let’s look at the real “death wish.” Overeating and lack of exercise kill more people than most of us realize. Let’s get out of our cars and golf carts and start walking and bicycling more. This is a retirement community. We are supposed to be all over the place walking, jogging, bicycling, and golfing.

[Bill14564]

I don't know what the driver saw other than we were crossing with a crosswalk signal in a designated crosswalk lane. I do know they attempted to run us over.

If they had how would this have played out for the motorist? Failure to yield for a pedestrian. On civil side this would be negligence. Pretty clear cut.

Ask yourself, as a driver, is it worth it to lose everything that you own, everything that you have worked for your entire life to harm a cyclist or 'cut it close' because you are irritated, in a rush, or convinced you are correct? Is it the right thing to do, to teach 'the spandex crowd a lesson", ever?

Three times now you have stated that the SUV attempted to run you over. This implies knowledge of the SUV driver's intent. Do you somehow know he was trying to run you over? And even if that is true, are you contending that the driver intended to run you over but when he got closer to your two-wheeled bicycle he realized it was impossible?

Or possibly the driver made a bad choice and didn't see you in the intersection when he began his turn onto Pinellas Place.

Or possibly, the driver was waiting in the intersection to make a left turn as his light changed to red which, as discussed in other threads, is appropriate in Florida. And maybe as he was making his legal turn the crosswalk light turned green. Seeing a green crosswalk signal you entered the crosswalk without first checking to see if there was oncoming traffic.

Clearly, there is no way for us to know what happened just as there is no way for you to know what was in the mind of the driver.

Fortunately, no one was harmed.

[Mohawksin]

You can't fix stupid and drivers in cars and carts think they own the road and will continue to treat bikers as having NO rights on the road. That's the Entitled attitude of the Villages, JMHO
P.S. Golf cart path seems to be worse to ride than the roads, its a crap shoot in the villages!

Where is a golf cart path that you can ride? I though golf cart paths were for golfers. Do you use a biker while playing golf?

[Toymeister]

Three times now you have stated that the SUV attempted to run you over. This implies knowledge of the SUV driver's intent. Do you somehow know he was trying to run you over? And even if that is true, are you contending that the driver intended to run you over but when he got closer to your two-wheeled bicycle he realized it was impossible?

Or possibly the driver made a bad choice and didn't see you in the intersection when he began his turn onto Pinellas Place.

Or possibly, the driver was waiting in the intersection to make a left turn as his light changed to red which, as discussed in other threads, is appropriate in Florida. And maybe as he was making his legal turn the crosswalk light turned green. Seeing a green crosswalk signal you entered the crosswalk without first checking to see if there was oncoming traffic.

Clearly, there is no way for us to know what happened just as there is no way for you to know what was in the mind of the driver.

Fortunately, no one was harmed.

You were not there. I was. I know the intent, you do not. All motor vehicles must yield to pedestrians. Cyclists are pedestrians in crosswalks.

You do not understand this. Please turn in your driver's license for the safety of every pedestrian, you are a danger to all of us.

[Babubhat]

Absurd comment Meister. You can drive without a license here and all a judge will do is give $500 bond. Justice in the area is non existent.

Additionally your perpetually angry responses are unwelcome

[Chellybean]

Where is a golf cart path that you can ride? I though golf cart paths were for golfers. Do you use a biker while playing golf?

multi use path genius.

[GrumpyOldMan]

multi use path genius.

Yup, but wait, you need to go stand in the corner for posting a helpful answer. Those are not allowed :)

[justjim]

Everyone, no matter the means of transportation, must be on alert. Driving, riding, jogging, and walking, please be careful. Please, when out having a few drinks, DO NOT GET BEHIND THE WHEEL! You could regret something for the rest of your life

Our Son who loves to run, jog and walk when visiting, says “TV is one of the most dangerous places
he has been to exercise outside”. It does appear to be a bit better south of Rt. 44 in the new area of TV. On foot you still have to be extra alert through the tunnels, across the bridges and on the multi-modal trails.

[jimjamuser]

Most auto drivers know and abide by this. Now the golf cart drivers are something else. In fact most don't think a walker, jogger or biker should be on the trails. Most will not give 3 feet clearance. It's a sad situation this has turned into. This will continue until someone gets killed.
And it will re-establish itself SOON after that. The paths are not regulated because it would cost too much for the small resulting improvement. The best way for improvement would be senior concentrated advertising to convince the path walkers to wear add-on rearview mirrors so that they could see the oncoming golf carts and bicycles and have time to step off of the road.

[golfing eagles]

You were not there. I was. I know the intent, you do not. All motor vehicles must yield to pedestrians. Cyclists are pedestrians in crosswalks.

You do not understand this. Please turn in your driver's license for the safety of every pedestrian, you are a danger to all of us.

Now I'm totally confused. Which crosswalk were you in? Crossing Pinellas at the entrance off 466A or crossing 466A. Was the car turning into Pinellas Pl., exiting onto 466A, or travelling on 466A???
And are you saying you know the driver intended to run her over?
Please clarify, I'm having trouble visualizing this.

[NoMoSno]

And it will re-establish itself SOON after that. The paths are not regulated because it would cost too much for the small resulting improvement. The best way for improvement would be senior concentrated advertising to convince the path walkers to wear add-on rearview mirrors so that they could see the oncoming golf carts and bicycles and have time to step off of the road.
Walkers should be walking facing traffic.
Bikes ride with traffic.

[jimjamuser]

Walkers should be walking facing traffic.
Bikes ride with traffic.
Yes, that IS ideal, but I have heard that walkers often walk in the right side of the path and in the same direction as the bikes and golf carts. What about them?

[golfing eagles]

Yes, that IS ideal, but I have heard that walkers often walk in the right side of the path and in the same direction as the bikes and golf carts. What about them?

That's easy---they're idiots

[Bill14564]

///

[JayK!]

Disagree with the "rolling stop"...anywhere. You want to ride a bike? You have to abide by motor vehicle laws where applicable. Most of the cyclists I observe do NOT do even a rolling stop. If you can't do a track stand then you'll have to put your feet down. If you don't like to have to do that then pick routes that don't have lights or stop signs. Also learn to signal your intent when approaching an intersection. Thanks.

I totally agree with you! Multil-modal paths were created to be used by bicyclists, too. Buena Vista Blvd. and Morse Blvd. are a challenge for any motorist, let alone trying to avoid bicycle users. Also, bicycle users should be required to have rear view mirrors, blinking hazard lights and wear bright-colored clothing.