Bicycle Group Lauds Light Legislation

A local bicycling group is praising legislation by State Rep. Janet Cruz as a good first step towards improving bike safety in Florida.

The bill, currently pending in the Florida House of Representatives, would encourage bicyclists to install lights and reflectors. Under the bill, a bicyclist could avoid a fine for not having lights by later presenting a receipt showing lights had been installed.

“We hope it's just the first step toward sweeping reform regarding bicycle safety in Florida, such as adopting a vulnerable users law that would increase the criminal penalties for motorists who kill or injure bicyclists and pedestrians,” said Alan Snel, director of the advocacy group South West Florida Bicycle United Dealers.

Florida consistently is at the top of states ranked unsafe for bicycles and pedestrians, and the west central area of the state is particularly treacherous.

Under Cruz's bill, bikes ridden between sunset and sunrise must have a white front light visible for at least 500 feet and a light and reflector visible for 600 feet on the rear.

The bill also clarifies language to require that helmets meet federal safety standards. Cruz is a West Tampa Democrat.