By Osborne & Francis
October 25, 2023

Understanding Florida’s Motorcycle Law

A comprehensive guide to the ins and outs of legally operating a motorcycle in the Sunshine State

Florida’s climate and seemingly endless sunny days are irresistible to the thousands of licensed motorcycle operators throughout the country. Motorcyclists are subject to additional rules and regulations and it is important to be well-versed in these laws before you take to the roads.

Those wishing to operate motorcycles must pass an additional Basic Rider Course offered through the Florida Rider Trainer Program to have a motorcycle endorsement added to their standard Class E license. Florida has reciprocal privileges for motorcyclists that have obtained endorsement in another state excluding Alabama.

In addition to additional licensing requirements, Florida motorcycle law also dictates when proper equipment and headgear is to be worn. Motorcyclists are required to wear protective headgear unless he or she 21 years of age or older and has at least $10,000 in medical insurance for injuries.

Motorcyclists are subject to the same traffic laws as other motorists. It is unlawful to operate a motorcycle if your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is .08 or greater. If you are convicted of driving a motorcycle under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you may face:

  • Mandatory license suspension
  • Community service
  • Probation
  • Hefty fines
  • Jail time

The severity of punishment varies depending on the driver’s prior history of DUI convictions and the seriousness of the injuries resulting from the accident. Motorcycles are inherently dangerous and operators and riders are more vulnerable to suffering serious injuries. The most common injuries associated with motorcycle accidents include:

  • Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
  • Broken bones
  • Lacerations, bruises and road burns
  • Neck and spinal cord injuries

If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, we have the answers to all your legal questions and are ready to guide you through the process of obtaining compensation. Call (561) 293-2600 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation at our Boca Raton office.

Watch our video to learn what to do after a motorcycle accident.

Continue reading to learn how an attorney can help you with your motorcycle accident case.

T. Andrews

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“Attorneys Greg Francis and Ryan Fletcher at Osborne & Francis Law Firm represented me in my personal injury case.The defendant drew a line in the sand and was adamant on a settlement amount I was almost willing to accept. After the dust settled and the smoke cleared, we settled for 3 times that amount!!! When they say ‘Real Tough Lawyers,’ they mean it.”

Erica F.

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"Best personal injury attorney around, I could not be happier! I was seriously injured in a car accident and Osborne and Francis helped me through the entire process. I was blown away by how knowledgeable the staff and attorneys are at this incredible law firm. I would not hesitate to recommend this law firm to friends and family!"

Alfred

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Quick and fair resolution to a unique case. On advice of my own attorney, I engaged Joseph Osborne of Osborne & Francis of Boca Raton, FL. Mr. Osborne had considerable experience in cases such as mine and the results showed that. Mr. Osborne and his staff were very helpful, kept me up to date, and listened to my input. The settlement was very fair as far as I am concerned.

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“I am so thankful for EVERYONE, the entire staff at Osborne & Francis Law, for mentoring me through the mediation process with my hip replacement failures. I didn't realize how MUCH pressure they relieved me of by helping me deal with the reality of this traumatic time in my life, as it was OVER so quickly with a positive result. My family is grateful to have their mom HAPPY & FOCUSED on the future, rather than worrying over what happened in the past! FAST FORWARD, we are LIVING LIFE to the fullest once again!”

E. Holland

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Dennis and the other Osborne & Francis staff were amazing! Our case was HUGE and required tender loving care. Everyone on our case did their part by putting all the puzzle pieces together. We were given step by step updates and put at ease when our nerves got the best of us. For every inquiry we made we received a timely response...You are appreciated!

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