Cyclists Beware: How to Ride Safely in Tampa Bay - Accident Agents

Do you remember the first time you rode a bike?

As a child, learning how to ride a bike is often our first experience of freedom – and riding along the beautiful landscapes of our city can bring back that feeling!

However, riding your bicycle safely in Tampa Bay begins with knowing the city’s bicycle laws. In some cases, a cycling accident happens because the bicyclist is not adhering to some of the basic bicycling laws which include:

  • Florida law requires bicyclists under 16 years old to wear a helmet
  • White light lamps must be attached to the front of bicycles when cycling at night
  • Bicycles must not carry more individuals than there are seats attached to the bicycle
  • Bicyclists are expected to obey traffic laws when cycling on roadways. Bicyclists have the same rights as pedestrians when cycling on sidewalks or walkways

What Else Can Bicyclists Do to Avoid a Cycling Accident in Tampa Bay?

In addition to following Florida bicycle laws, here are tips to keep you safe while bicycling around the beautiful city of Tampa Bay:

  • Make sure your bicycle “fits” your height. Operating a bicycle that is too big for you makes it harder to control the bicycle.
  • Wear a helmet! Over 95 percent of bicyclist fatalities involved bicyclists who were not wearing a helmet.
  • Operate your bike defensively. Stay alert to what is going on around you and try to anticipate what vehicles may do when approaching a stop light or 4-way stop.
  • Never wear earbuds or text on your cellphone while bicycling. Distracted bicycling is just as dangerous as distracted driving.
  • Tampa Bay is home to some great bike paths providing smooth pavements wide enough for both pedestrians and bicyclists. Be aware of laws regarding pedestrian rights on bike paths and don’t assume they must yield to bicyclists. Striking a pedestrian could land you in court.
  • Bicycling while intoxicated or otherwise under the influence of certain prescription medications is against the law in Tampa Bay. If you have been drinking or are taking medications that make you drowsy, don’t ride your bike.

What Happens After a Cycling Accident in Tampa Bay?

No matter how diligent and law-abiding you are while bicycling, there is always that chance you could be involved in a cycling accident. Depending on the severity of the accident, you could need access to medical care or legal resources. 

Accident Agents offers guidance and transportation assistance to individuals throughout the process of resolving post-accident issues. 

Interested in hearing more? Call 1-866-4-AGENTE for more information.