Motorcycle Parking Laws in Florida
Bill Allen | September 6, 2022 | Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycles are clearly very different machines from cars, trucks, and SUVs. The difference in size and weight alone makes it clear why motorcyclists must possess a special license to ride their bikes.
But despite these differences, motorcyclists must obey the same rules of the road that other motorists must follow. This extends to rules governing when the motorcycle is in motion and when it is stopped and parked.
Motorcycle Parking Prohibitions in Florida
Many of the rules regulating how four-wheeled vehicles can be parked also apply to motorcycles, sometimes with even greater force.
For example, while passenger vehicles must display a handicap tag to park in a designated accessible parking spot legally, motorcycles are not permitted to park in handicap spots at all. Illegally parking in an accessible spot is a traffic infraction punishable by a fine of up to $250.
If you live near one of Florida’s many coastal communities, you may be accustomed to seeing bicycles and foot-powered scooters parked outside restaurants, shops, and other businesses. Motorcycles aren’t too dissimilar to bicycles, so it makes sense why some people would believe that it’s okay to park them on sidewalks.
However, this isn’t the case. Section 316.1945 of Florida law lists a host of places where it is illegal for any motorized vehicle to stop and park, and sidewalks are among them.
Other Places Where Motorcyclists May Not Park
Along with sidewalks, motorcyclists are forbidden from stopping, standing, or parking alongside any vehicle stopped or parked at a curb or street edge. Nor can a motorcyclist park in an intersection, crosswalk, or safety zone.
Additionally, it’s against the law to stop or park a motorcycle on railroad tracks, on a bike path, on a bridge, or inside a highway tunnel. Motorcyclists found illegally parked by police may be issued a traffic citation. These citations are generally classified as non-moving violations and can come with fines of up to $100.
Exceptions to Florida’s Parking Restrictions
In rare instances, motorcyclists may park in otherwise-restricted areas if they are expressly directed to do so by a traffic control officer.
Similarly, parking on a sidewalk or other prohibited site might be acceptable if there is a traffic sign posted nearby clearly indicating that parking is permitted.
Motorcyclists Must Be Aware of Other Parking Restrictions
Motorcyclists in Florida must not only comply with state laws concerning parking but also be aware of applicable local ordinances. For example, college campuses and certain types of businesses often have rules restricting where vehicles can park and what permits they must display. They may also impose their own penalties for parking violations.
Many of these city ordinances and private parking rules apply equally to motor vehicles like cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Thus, a good general rule of thumb is that if it would be illegal to park a car, truck, or SUV in a specific spot, it’s probably illegal to park your motorcycle there as well.
Where to Turn for Help With Parking Laws
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, a Florida attorney who’s well-versed in the relevant laws may be able to assist you. And if you or someone you know has sustained an injury under these circumstances, you may be entitled to compensation.
Your Ocala personal injury lawyer will review the facts of your situation and apprise you of what kind of payment you can expect to receive.
Contact Our Ocala Motorcycle Accident Law Firm in North Central Florida
If you need legal assistance, contact the Ocala motorcycle accident lawyers at Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers at your nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.
We have three convenient locations in North Central Florida:
Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers – Ocala Office
112 S Pine Ave
Ocala, FL 34471
(352) 351-3258
Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers – Gainesville office
2550 SW 76th St #150
Gainesville, FL 32608
(877) 255-3652
Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers – Downtown Gainesville
621 W University Ave
Gainesville, FL 32601
(866) 928-6292