ORLANDO, Fla. – News 6 traffic safety expert Trooper Steve Montiero answers viewer questions twice per week in a segment called “Ask Trooper Steve.”
Trooper Steve on Thursday was asked, “When it comes to sidewalks, who is the priority, rather than who thinks they are?”
If you’ve walked down any busy sidewalk lately, you’ve probably seen the daily shuffle, bicycles zipping by, scooters weaving around, and those electric gadgets that make you question physics. Everyone seems to think they have the right of way. But here’s the truth: at the end of the day, it’s all about the two legs.
Florida law is clear; sidewalks are built for pedestrians. That means everyone else, including bicycles, scooters, and other electric devices, must yield to the person walking. No matter how fast, fancy, or expensive your ride is, the pedestrian always comes first.
“That means everyone else must yield to the person who is walking,” Trooper Steve said.
That doesn’t mean walkers get to zone out, though. They still have a responsibility to stay aware and predictable. Sidewalks are shared spaces and safety only works when everyone does their part.
So whether you’re rolling, riding or running late, slow it down and yield. Because when it comes to who’s in charge of the concrete, if it’s powered by your feet, you’re the priority.
Watch the full explanation at the very top of this story.