According to data from the Florida Motorcycle Safety Coalition, rider fatalities in the state reached an all-time high in 2015. While the disheartening number of motorcyclist deaths has declined steadily since that peak, riders are still disproportionately affected by auto accident fatalities in Florida.
Review the motorcycle laws to reduce your risk of serious collision injury.
Bike equipment laws
Your motorcycle must have brakes on both the front and back wheels. Florida prohibits modified exhaust systems as well as bikes with systems that produce excessive smoke and odor. Your bike’s handlebars must be at or lower than your shoulder height.
If you carry a passenger on your motorcycle, your bike must have a separate, permanent seat for him or her. Florida law also requires separate footrests for the driver and passenger.
Your bike must have a white rear taillight that another driver can see from at least 50 feet away.
Operation laws
In general, abide by the same laws that apply to cars and other motor vehicles. You may not pass another vehicle in the same lane or between lanes. You can travel side-by-side with one other motorcycle in the same lane. Florida law prohibits drag racing, stunt riding and leaving the roadway to pass other vehicles.
Florida law requires helmets for riders who are younger than 21. If you are older than 21 and choose not to wear a helmet, you must carry proof of at least $10,000 in medical insurance benefits. In addition, you must have a Florida driver’s license with a motorcycle endorsement to legally operate a bike in the state.
