May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

Motorcycle Safety Awareness

Florida’s sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and scenic highways make it a popular place for motorcycle enthusiasts. The State also hosts popular motorcycle rallies such as Biketoberfest® and Daytona Bike Week. Florida’s growing population and popularity with motorcycle enthusiasts make motorcycle safety an important issue.

Florida continually Ranks in the top three states in the nation for motorcycle related fatalities.

To combat Motorcycle crashes, our efforts focus on:

• Enforcement: Enforcing Traffic laws regarding motorcyclists and motor vehicles engaging motorcycles.
• Communication Program: Public awareness and education regarding Motorcycle safety.
• Education: The Citizens Motorcycle Course – S.M.A.R.T. You can find more training and educational information here: https://ridesmartflorida.com/

For Motorcyclists

• Helmet Requirements: Riders under 21 are required to wear DOT-approved helmets. Riders over 21 may ride without a helmet if they carry a minimum of $10,000 in medical insurance coverage for motorcycle-related injuries. (F.S. 316.211 (3)(b))
• Mandatory Eye Protection:All motorcyclists must wear approved eye protection while riding on public roadways. (F.S. 316.211(2))
• Headlight Use:Motorcycles are required to always have headlights on, even during daylight hours, to improve visibility. (F.S. 316.405)
• No Lane Splitting:It is unlawful for motorcycles to pass between lanes of traffic moving or overtake and pass in the same lane as another vehicle. (F.S. 316.209(3))
• Passenger Provisions: Motorcycles carrying passengers must be equipped with a dedicated passenger seat. (F.S. 316.2085(1)(b))

For Motorists

• Avoid Lane Sharing: Motorcycles are entitled to the full use of a lane. Motorists may not drive within the same lane alongside a motorcycle — even if the motorcycle is not in the center of the lane. (F.S. 316.209(1))
• Don’t Drive Distracted:Handheld device use is prohibited in almost all cases on any roadway, and especially in active school and work zones (F.S. 316.305). Motorcycles can be less visible than motor vehicles – be alert and always check twice for motorcycles and other vulnerable road users.
• Yield the Right-of Way:Motorcycles have the same rights and responsibilities as any other motor vehicle on the road (F.S. 316.122). Motorists must yield appropriately and avoid turning into a motorcyclist’s path when changing lanes or at intersections, the most common type of crash involving a car and motorcycle.