Bicycle Lights

Question

Was the Florida Bicycle Association successful in facilitating a change in the bicycle lighting requirements in 2012 legislation?

Answer

Until January 1, 2013, the legal status of flashing lights commonly used on bicycles (blinkies) was uncertain.  Due to the legislative efforts of the FBA, that was clarified.

The required lights on bicycles may now flash.

s. 316.2397Certain Lights Prohibited; Exceptions

(7) Flashing lights are prohibited on vehicles except:

(c) For the lamps authorized under subsections …. s. 316.2065 ….  which may flash.

There was no change to the provision that permits other lights in addition to those required.

s. 316.2065 – Bicycle Regulations

(7) Every bicycle in use between sunset and sunrise shall be equipped with a lamp on the front exhibiting a white light visible from a distance of at least 500 feet to the front and a lamp and reflector on the rear each exhibiting a red light visible from a distance of 600 feet to the rear. A bicycle or its rider may be equipped with lights or reflectors in addition to those required by this section. A law enforcement officer may issue a bicycle safety brochure and a verbal warning to a bicycle rider who violates this subsection or may issue a citation and assess a fine for a pedestrian violation as provided in s. 318.18. The court shall dismiss the charge against a bicycle rider for a first violation of this subsection upon proof of purchase and installation of the proper lighting equipment.

The previous posts that were rendered incorrect by the new legislation  have been deleted.

1 Comment on “Bicycle Lights

  1. Is it illegal to ride a bike with a infant in a chest carrier on your chest? I was doing this and had at least 8-9 cops, and sheriffs pass me and never stop me and say anything but yesterday one on a motorcycle stopped me and said I couldn’t carry her like that. I cant afford a bike with a baby seat attached to it and don’t have a car or license, this is the only transportation I can afford through out the week. I cant even afford a bus everyday and my daughter is always in my care. The cop never said it was illegal just said “oh you can fall and she can get hurt” well I don’t see how she could get any less hurt strapped in a seat behind me if I fall at least if she’s snug to my chest I can put my hands out to protect her…….

Leave a Reply