Florida is a great place to ride and have
fun. But getting in trouble with the law can quickly take all the fun
out of a ride. The best way to avoid legal problems is to be aware
of what the law requires and then comply. If you are new to
Florida or just visiting, you may not be aware of Florida's
statutes regarding motorcycles. So here is a brief description of
major requirements and prohibitions. If you would like greater
detail, you can review the actual statutes by
clicking here. Be safe, obey the
law and have fun.
A.
Some Requirements
1. No helmet required IF over 21with proof of at
least $10,000 of medical insurance.
otherwise, must wear DOT-Approved helmet
(see sidebar on right) (316.311 f.s.)
2. Eye Protection (316.211 f.s.)
3. Valid Motorcycle Operator's License (322.03 f.s.)
4. Headlight must be turned on. (316.405 f.s.)
B. Some
Prohibitions
1. No motorcycle can overtake and pass in same lane occupied by
vehicle
(including another motorcycle) being passed (316.209 f.s.)
2. Riding between lanes (316.209 f.s.)
3. Obstructing (blocking) traffic (316.2045 f.s.)
4. Showing or displaying blue lights (no blue dot lens) (316.2397
f.s.)
Motorcycle
Helmet Exemption
In an effort to answer questions
regarding the motorcycle helmet exemption law, the Florida Department of
Highway Safety & Motor Vehicles has provided the following information:
Who is
eligible? Only persons who are 21 years of age or older and
who are covered by insurance providing at least $10,000 in medical
benefits.
When did the
law take effect? It went into effect July 1, 2000.
What proof of
insurance is required? The department is advising law
enforcement to accept a health insurance card (or actual policy or
declarations page) from a HMO or Blue Cross/Blue Shield or some other
recognized health insurance provider as proof. The card must show
current insurance. In addition, limited motorcycle medical
coverage will also suffice. Contact your insurance carrier for
more information. However, PIP coverage under a personal passenger
vehicle policy would be insufficient for either the operator or
passenger on the motorcycle.
Can I get
pulled over by law enforcement just for not wearing a helmet? The
department has determined enforcement for this provision should be
secondary. That is, an officer should not initiate a traffic stop
only to determine insurance coverage. However, an officer may stop
a motorcycle if the officer suspects the operator or passenger is
under 21.
(2)