What should you do when you encounter a child on a bicycle?

When you encounter a child on a bicycle, the appropriate action is to slow down and give them plenty of space. This approach prioritizes safety for the child, who may not have the same awareness or control as an adult cyclist. Children can be unpredictable, and their movements on a bicycle can change suddenly. By reducing your speed, you have more time to react to any unexpected actions they may take, such as swerving or stopping suddenly.

Providing ample space when passing is crucial as well. It creates a safe buffer between your vehicle and the child on the bicycle, helping to prevent accidents. Florida traffic laws emphasize the importance of giving cyclists, especially children, adequate room when driving so that everyone on the road can maintain their safety. This action reflects courteous and responsible driving behavior that acknowledges the vulnerability of children on bicycles.

Options that suggest speeding up, using the horn, or changing lanes abruptly could lead to dangerous situations for the child, as they fail to account for the child's possible lack of predictability and control on the bike.