Yes, in Florida, it is legal for two motorcycles to ride side by side in the same lane. This practice, known as "lane sharing" or "two abreast riding," is specifically permitted under Florida law.
What About Riding Between Two Lanes?
While lane sharing is legal, lane splitting — when a motorcycle rides between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic — is not allowed in Florida. Lane splitting is considered unsafe and is explicitly prohibited under state law.
Florida #1 In Motorcycle Deaths
578 people died in 2024 as a result of motorcycle crashes throughout the state of Florida. In comparison, California saw 525 fatalities and Texas saw 475. So why is Florida so dangerous for motorcyclists.
Weak Helmet Laws
For one, it's legal for anyone 21 and older to ride a motorcycle without a helmet if they're covered by an insurance policy that provides at least $10,000 in medical benefits.
This helmet exemption went into effect back in 2000 and allows "law enforcement to accept a health insurance card (or actual policy or declarations page) from a HMO or Blue Cross/Blue Shield or some other recognized health insurance provider as proof of required medical insurance."
High Traffic & Tourist Drivers
Florida’s roads, especially in cities like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa, are packed with tourists unfamiliar with the area. A lot of these drivers are distracted by looking up and following GPS directions to tourist destinations, unfamiliar traffic patterns, or just not paying attention, making them more likely to overlook motorcyclists.
Year-Round Riding & More Riders
Unlike colder states where motorcycles are seasonal, Florida’s warm climate allows for year-round riding. More riders on the road mean a higher chance of accidents.
Weak Helmet Laws
For one, it's legal for anyone 21 and older to ride a motorcycle without a helmet if they're covered by an insurance policy that provides at least $10,000 in medical benefits.
This helmet exemption went into effect back in 2000 and allows "law enforcement to accept a health insurance card (or actual policy or declarations page) from a HMO or Blue Cross/Blue Shield or some other recognized health insurance provider as proof of required medical insurance."
High Traffic & Tourist Drivers
Florida’s roads, especially in cities like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa, are packed with tourists unfamiliar with the area. A lot of these drivers are distracted by looking up and following GPS directions to tourist destinations, unfamiliar traffic patterns, or just not paying attention, making them more likely to overlook motorcyclists.
Year-Round Riding & More Riders
Unlike colder states where motorcycles are seasonal, Florida’s warm climate allows for year-round riding. More riders on the road mean a higher chance of accidents.
A Word of Caution for Motorcyclists
Motorcyclists or share lanes should always maintain good communication and awareness of each other’s movements in order to avoid collisions or unexpected maneuvers. Riders should also be mindful of other vehicles on the road; not all drivers anticipate motorcycles traveling closely together.
If you've been injured in a motorcycle-related accident, call a Jacksonville car accident lawyer at Wilkes & Mee today. We work fast and efficiently to help you get the right medical treatment, investigate the scene, and aggressively negotiate with the insurance company.