Florida Motorcycle Laws and Personal Injury – 7 Things to Know

Florida’s sunny coastlines beckon motorcyclists with the promise of beautiful scenery and endless adventure. But with this unforgettable experience comes the responsibility of driving safely and minimizing accident risk for all who share the road. For motorcyclists, navigating Florida’s diverse roadways requires an extra layer of knowledge – familiarity with Florida’s motorcycle laws.

1. Get A Motorcycle Endorsement For Legal Operation.

You must get a motorcycle endorsement on your driver’s license if you wish to operate any 2 or 3-wheeled vehicle (motorcycle, moped, scooter) with an engine displacement of 50cc or larger. You must pass a knowledge test and complete a Basic Rider Course that’s approved by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation for endorsement.

Why Must I Get An Endorsement?

• Safety: Motorcycles handle differently than cars and require specific skills and knowledge to operate safely. An endorsement verifies that you’ve undergone training to possess the necessary skills to handle your bike, and traffic while anticipating potential hazards.
• Power: Even 50cc engines can propel you at speeds exceeding safe limits for inexperienced riders. The endorsement process ensures that you understand your bike’s capabilities and limitations.

Florida’s motorcycle laws also state that you must register your bike with the state.

What If I Don’t Have a Standard Driver’s License But Want To Ride?

If you’re a new rider without a standard driver’s license, then Florida’s motorcycle laws do allow you to get a “Motorcycle Only” license. To qualify, you must be at least 16 years of age, hold a learner’s permit for a minimum of 1 year (or until your 18th birthday), and pass a knowledge test and the Basic Rider Course.

2. What Is Florida’s Motorcycle Helmet Law?

Florida’s motorcycle helmet law states that all riders and passengers under the age of 21 must wear a helmet that complies with the Federal Motorcycle Vehicle Safety Standard. If you’re over 21, you can choose not to wear a helmet, but only if you carry $10,000 in medical insurance coverage for injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident. This provision ensures that you’re financially prepared to address the potential medical expenses resulting from an accident.

3. Eye Protection – Enhancing Visibility & Awareness

Regardless of whether you choose to wear a helmet or not, Florida’s motorcycle laws state that all Florida riders must wear eye protection, such as goggles, face shields, or shatter-resistant glasses that meet standards set by the state. This shields your eyes from debris, insects, and other airborne hazards that would disable your ability to maintain clear vision and situational awareness on the road.

4. Can I Lane Split or Filter?

Lane splitting, the practice of riding a motorcycle between lanes of stopped or slow-moving traffic, is illegal in Florida. Similarly, lane filtering, which involves moving between lanes to the front of traffic at a red light or stop sign, and operating more than two motorcycles abreast in a single lane is prohibited.

5. Mirrors, Headlights, Stunts & Other Smaller Florida Motorcycle Laws

Smaller but must-know Florida motorcycle laws include:

• Headlights are on at all times, even during daylight hours!
• No stunts like “wheelies”.
• Passengers require dedicated seating and footrests.
• No listening devices obstructing sounds.
• Your bike must have mirrors that provide a clear view of at least 200 feet of rear view.

6. Insurance Requirements – BIL & PDL Coverage

Florida’s motorcycle laws state that you must carry minimum insurance coverage to legally operate the bike on public roads. This includes Bodily Injury Liability (BIL) of $10,000/person and $20,000/accident, and Property Damage Liability (PDL) coverage of $10,000/accident.

7. Florida Motorcycle Laws Have Zero Tolerance for Impaired Riding

Florida has strict laws against operating motorcycles or any motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.08% BAC for riders, and DUI convictions carry severe penalties like fines, jail time, license suspension, and ignition interlock device installation.

While Knowledge Is Power, Accidents Can Still Happen

While knowing and adhering to Florida’s motorcycle laws can preserve the freedom of the open road and minimize the potential for accidents, they can still happen. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact The Personal Injury Law Firm of Florida for a free consultation at 561-507-5700, 24/7.