A cyclist riding on the roadway is subject to nearly all of the traffic laws applicable to cars or motorcycles. A few people asked about the exception to which I referred, Fla. Stat. 316.183 (5), which states:
No person shall drive a motor vehicle at such a slow speed as to impede or block the normal and reasonable movement of traffic.
The reason it does not apply is because a bicycle is not included in this statute’s definition of a “motor vehicle.” However, even though the speed impediment law does not apply, this does not allow cyclists to ride in any manner they so choose.
Remember, cyclists are required to ride in a bike lane, if available. We are permitted to ride two abreast within the bike lane and in those circumstances when we are permitted to “take the lane.” Otherwise, riding two abreast is not permitted and we can be cited for impeding traffic.
