Pets on Bikes

Question

Steven asked: Is it legal to carry a pet in a bike basket while riding a bicycle?

Answer

There is no state statute that prohibits carrying a pet in a basket on a bicycle. There may be other considerations though.

The statutes relating to cruelty to animals might apply if the potential for unsafe conditions exists. For example, if someone attempting to carry an 80-pound dog in a handlebar basket loses control and crashes, the dog might be injured. Since the possibility of a crash could be reasonably foreseen, such a charge may result.

s. 828.27 – Local Animal Control or Cruelty Ordinances; Penalty

(1) As used in this section, the term:

(d) “Cruelty” means any act of neglect, torture, or torment that causes unjustifiable pain or suffering of an animal.

There may be local ordinances that are more specific.

(2) The governing body of a county or municipality is authorized to enact ordinances relating to animal control or cruelty

If loss of control could be reasonably foreseen, and the safety of property (the animal) or persons (either the cyclist or others) is disregarded, the cyclist may be charged with reckless or careless driving.

s. 316.192 – Reckless Driving

(1)(a) Any person who drives any vehicle in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property is guilty of reckless driving.

s. 316.1925 – Careless Driving

(1) Any person operating a vehicle upon the streets or highways within the state shall drive the same in a careful and prudent manner ….  so as not to endanger the life, limb, or property of any person.