Florida § 316.083 - Overtaking and passing a vehicle, a bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle, or an electric bicycle.
Full text of Florida Florida Statutes § 316.083 — Overtaking and passing a vehicle, a bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle, or an electric bicycle., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 316.083. Overtaking and passing a vehicle, a bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle, or an electric bicycle.
The following rules shall govern the overtaking and passing of vehicles, bicycles and other nonmotorized vehicles, and electric bicycles, subject to those limitations, exceptions, and special rules hereinafter stated: (1) The driver of a vehicle overtaking another vehicle proceeding in the same direction must give an appropriate signal as provided for in s. 316.156, must pass to the left thereof at a safe distance, and must not again drive to the right side of the roadway until safely clear of the overtaken vehicle. (2) The driver of a vehicle overtaking a bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle or an electric bicycle occupying the same travel lane must pass the bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle or electric bicycle at a safe distance of not less than 3 feet or, if such movement cannot be safely accomplished, must remain at a safe distance behind the bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle or electric bicycle until the driver can safely pass at a distance of not less than 3 feet and must safely clear the overtaken bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle or electric bicycle. (3) The driver of a vehicle overtaking a bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle, or an electric bicycle, occupying a bicycle lane must pass the bicycle, other nonmotorized vehicle, or electric bicycle at a safe distance of not less than 3 feet between the vehicle and the bicycle, other nonmotorized vehicle, or electric bicycle. (4) Subsections (2) and (3) do not apply when a bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle, or an electric bicycle, occupies a separated bicycle lane. (5) Except when overtaking and passing on the right is permitted, the driver of an overtaken vehicle must give way to the right in favor of the overtaking vehicle, on audible signal or upon the visible blinking of the headlamps of the overtaking vehicle if such overtaking is being attempted at nighttime, and must not increase the speed of his or her vehicle until completely passed by the overtaking vehicle. (6) A person who violates this section commits a noncriminal traffic infraction, punishable as a moving violation as provided in chapter 318. (7) The department must provide an annual awareness and safety campaign informing the public about the safety precautions to be taken when overtaking a bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle or an electric bicycle.
Source: official Florida text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida § 316.083
What does Florida Statutes § 316.083 cover?
Section 316.083 ("Overtaking and passing a vehicle, a bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle, or an electric bicycle.") is part of the Florida Statutes, the codified statutory law of Florida. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Florida § 316.083?
A common citation format is "Florida Statutes § 316.083" (Florida). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Florida law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Florida official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Florida attorney.
How does Florida § 316.083 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Florida can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Florida.