Ride

This section uses the word “bicycle” for brevity, but presents some state laws, university regulations and other useful information related to using a bicycle (including an electric bicycle), a scooter (including an electric scooter), or a similar device on campus. Information related to using moped is in the section “Drive”. You must follow all state laws and university regulations, including those this website does not present.

Follow different rules depending on where you ride

Florida law gives a person riding a bicycle different responsibilities based on whether they ride on the road or on the sidewalk.

Riding on a road

When you ride a bicycle on a road, follow all traffic rules that apply to a person driving a car. Florida Statutes 316.2065(1).

If you move more slowly than others, you have the additional obligation of either traveling in the bicycle lane (where one exists) or of traveling as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the road. Florida Statutes 316.2065(5)(a). This requirement to travel as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the road does not apply in many circumstances including when cars are parked to your right, when the lane is too narrow for a driver to pass you safely, and when you prepare to make a left turn. Florida Statutes 316.2065(5)(a). In those circumstances, you may ride your bicycle anywhere within the lane, including the center of the lane.

Riding on a sidewalk

When you ride a bicycle on a sidewalk or a crosswalk, follow all traffic rules that apply to a person walking. Florida Statutes 316.2065(9). If necessary, however, you must yield or wait for a person walking. Florida Statutes 316.2065(10).

Use safety equipment

When you ride a bicycle at night, use lights. Florida Statutes 316.2065(7). At all times, consider wearing a helmet.

Properly secure and store your bicycle

Use a high-quality, U-shaped lock to properly secure your bicycle outside.

The university does not allow parking, charging, or storing a bicycle or a scooter inside a campus building, unless designated indoor bicycle storage exists. University Regulation 4.1.2.1.

You may register a bicycle with the University of Florida Police Department for free. Registration helps to deter theft and may help to recover a stolen bicycle.

You may ride in the vehicle-restricted zone

Although the university does not allow a person to drive a motor vehicle in the vehicle-restricted zone of the northeast corner of campus, you may ride a bicycle in this area.