Community

Many bicyclists have experience riding in traffic and know how to watch out for cars and trucks. Motorists are not generally accustomed to bicyclists and often need tips. These tips include:

Cyclists skills vary. When possible, assess the rider's capabilities. A safe (experienced?) rider holds a steady line.
Even though a bicyclist's pace may pose a momentary delay in your schedule, it is important to respect the bicyclist's safety and legal right to the roadways.
Yield the right of way to the bicyclist as you would a car.
Use extra caution during peak morning and afternoon riding hours.
Keep cool and lay off the horn and flashing headlights, either of which may startle a cyclist.
A moving vehicle creates wind turbulence that can seriously affect a cyclist's control. When meeting or passing cyclists, slow down and give the widest berth possible. Crosswinds compound the problem for cyclists, as do large vehicles.
Cyclists worry about road defects you'd never feel in your car. Allow them plenty of room in case they swerve to miss
Cyclists require extra courtesy while negotiating railroad tracks and narrow bridges.
On a two-lane road, don't pass a cyclist if oncoming traffic is near.
For safe passing, allow three to five feet of space; add one foot for every 10 mph over 50 mph. Florida law requires a minimum of 3 feet when passing a bicyclist. Even if the cyclist is in a bike lane, make sure you allow the 3 feet when passing.