Local Authorities, Sidewalks and Roadways

Question

Jan asked: I remember a few years when I moved to FL the FDOT traffic laws for cyclists stated that communities COULD prohibit bikes from sidewalks, but in general, COULD NOT prohibit bikes from roadways (limited access roads excepted). The FDOT website has changed and I can no longer find the reference. Is this still true?

Answer

FDOT may post the laws on its site, but state legislators generate the laws. You are correct that local authorities can pass ordinances that prohibit bicycles from sidewalks under their jurisdiction and bicyclists have an inherent right to use the roadway.

These posts discuss that and provide the applicable statutes:

http://flbikelaw.org/2010/01/bicycles-must-use-sidewalk/

http://flbikelaw.org/2010/01/walk-bicycle-across-bridge/