Biking Safety and other Tips for enjoying Sanibel Island

A 12 mile long tropical island, mostly a nature preserve, is an idyllic hide-out from the rest of the world. 

Traffic moves slowly, crime is close to non existent, and life is good. Very good.

But no place as natural as Sanibel Island is completely free of concern.

There are the usual considerations one would give to any place in the sun.  One must pay attention to being hydrated while walking, biking or beaching.  And covering up to avoid both sun burn and bug bites is clearly a good step to take.

As for the alligators, the rule is simple.  Stay away from still waters.  Walking close to the edge of a bayou or lake is never a good idea in any tropical climate.

All this said, we recently came across an article with detailed and excellent bike safety rules that we would like to share with you.  Though Sanibel is one of the best and safest places to ride a bike, with 22 miles of bike trails to entertain the eye and ear, it is always advisable to heed the special direction of experts.  And this is what they say.

If riders decide to use the public roadways, it should be noted that in Florida bicycles are considered vehicles and subject to the same rules of the roads as vehicles. Hand signals should be used when turning; headsets are not allowed; lights must be used at night, and bicyclists under sixteen must wear helmets.

On the bike paths, riders should yield to pedestrians and demonstrate courtesy when overtaking other cyclists. An audible signal should be used to alert people on foot, and passing should be done to the left. In marked crosswalks, bicyclists have the same rights as pedestrians. Treating each other with respect keeps everyone safe and enhances the vacation experience.

In a nut shell: Florida Bicycle Safety
• All bicyclists under the age of 16 must wear helmets.
• On the roadways, bicycles are considered vehicles and must follow the same rules of the road.
• Use hand signals when turning.
• Headsets are not allowed.
• Lights must be used at night.
• Yield to pedestrians.

Bicycling is a great way to visit the many shopping areas along Periwinkle Way. It is also a fun way to explore the beaches of the islands. By using an island map, you can make your own itinerary. Be sure to bring along water and sunscreen. And above all, have a great ride.