Brevard ranks among the most dangerous counties for cyclists. Here's how you can stay safe

Before you take a spin around the Space Coast on your bicycle, beware: Brevard is ranked as one of the most dangerous counties for cyclists in the country, according to a recent study.

While our warm weather makes for great conditions, you'll also have to contend with busy roads and afternoon thunderstorms.

A study by Bader Scott Law Firm, which pulled data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, ranks Brevard as the 14th most dangerous county in the country for cyclists, with 3.79 cyclists deaths per 100,000 people.

That's not the only study that shows local cyclists may face more risks than in other states. In a study by personal injury experts at Sweeney Merrigan Law LLP that examined the rate of fatal incidents involving cyclists, Florida ranked as the No. 1 state posing the greatest risk for cyclists.

According to the study — which came to its conclusion by looking at the population of each state, the number of total traffic fatalities and cyclist deaths per state and the population-based pedal cyclist fatality rates by state for 2021 — there were 197 traffic-related cyclist deaths in 2021. That's the equivalent of 0.9 fatalities per 100,000 residents. These fatalities also accounted for 5.3% of all traffic fatalities in the state during 2021.

That number is even higher for 2023, according to data from Florida Highway Patrol. The department recorded 8,379 bicycle crashes throughout the state over the course of the year. Of those, 222 were fatal.

Despite the risks, cycling can be a fun activity for many, or may be the only source of transportation for some in Brevard County.

Here are tips on how to navigate the Space Coast safely.

Follow proper bicyclist etiquette

Some common-sense tips from FHP before you hop on your bicycle: Make sure your gear is working, put on a helmet for safety (especially if you're under 16 — it's the law) and never attach yourself or your bike to a vehicle on a roadway.

No matter if you plan to travel on the street or a sidewalk, make sure to travel with traffic — doing so leads to better visibility, according to the Space Coast Transportation Planning Organization.

They recommend being as predictable to other drivers as possible by following the flow of traffic, signaling when you're going to turn, avoiding weaving in and out of traffic and following road signs. It can also be helpful to map your trip ahead of time.

If you're on the road but can't keep up with traffic, use the bike lane or the right-most side of the road, FHP said.

When riding on a shared path or sidewalk, ride to the right and pass on the left, and always yield to pedestrians, Space Coast TPO said. It's also important to keep in mind that While riding on the sidewalk is legal in most areas, local ordinances may vary.

Cyclists can travel over any causeway in Brevard except for the Beachline (SR 528), as it's a limited access facility designated by FDOT, according to Space Coast Transportation Planning Organization.

Exercise extra caution in bad weather and at night

There may be times when you'll be riding in bad weather, or in low lighting. There are certain things you can do to make yourself more visible, and to avoid accidents.

No matter the time of day, FHP recommends wearing neon, fluorescent colors or something reflective.

According to Florida law, you must have a white light on the front of your bike that's visible from 500 feet away, as well as a red reflector and a red light that's visible from 600 feet away on the rear.

If you'll be riding in the rain, be cautious of slippery surfaces and avoid riding through puddles that you can't see the bottom of, Space Coast TPO said.

Don't ride distracted or drunk

It might sound fun to listen to music or a podcast while you're cycling, but think again before putting in an earbud or pulling out your phone — not only are these distractions, but you can also be charged with an infraction if you're caught on your phone or wearing a headset, according to a Florida statute.

Bicyclists can face multiple infractions for various offenses, such as riding on an interstate highway, not signaling your intent to turn or not wearing a helmet if you're under the age of 16. But using a bicycle after consuming alcohol or drugs is the only criminal offense a bicyclist can be charged with in Florida, according to FHP.

It's not legally required for those 16 and over, but FHP recommends everyone wear a helmet for safety.

Drivers beware

It's important for drivers and motorcyclists to keep an eye out for bicyclists on the roads, FHP said, especially when pulling out into an intersection, changing lanes or even opening a car door.

When you spot a bicyclist on the road, give them at least three feet of clearance -- it's the law -- and make sure there are more than a few feet of space between you and a cyclist if you attempt to pass them, as wind can cause cyclists to lose control.

Approach and pass cyclists as you would a slow-moving vehicle, and avoid using high-beam headlights near them, FHP said.

Finch Walker is the education reporter at FLORIDA TODAY. Contact Walker at 321-290-4744 or [email protected]. X: @_finchwalker.

This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Here's how to bicycle safe on Florida's Space Coast