Georgia bicyclists face many dangers. When a bicyclist is in an accident with a motor vehicle, it is most often the bicyclist who is significantly injured. However, there are things that bicyclists can do to protect themselves from accidents and injuries. They may not always be effective, but they may reduce the number of Georgia bicycle injuries and fatalities.

Georgia Bicycle Laws
In Georgia, a bicycle is a vehicle. As such, the operator of a bicycle is legally obligated to comply with certain safety laws.* As an Atlanta bicycle accident attorney, I want you to know about the following laws:
  • Children must be securely transported in a sling or bike trailer if they accompany you on your bike.
  • Your bike may only hold the number of people for which it is designed. You cannot, for example, allow someone to ride on the handlebars.
  • Generally, you must ride as close to the right side of the road as possible.
  • You may not travel with anything that would prevent you from having at least one hand on the handlebar.
  • If you are under age 16, you must wear a helmet while on a bicycle.

For the most part, you will not be fined or imprisoned for failing to comply with Georgia bicycle laws. However, you may be putting yourself at risk of serious injury.

What Happens After a Georgia Bike Crash
As a bicyclist, you cannot prevent a driver from distracted driving, drunk driving, drowsy driving or making any other mistake that would cause the driver to hit you. Even if you follow all the rules, you may still get hurt.

If you have been injured or if you have lost a loved one in a Georgia bike crash, then please contact an Atlanta bicycle accident lawyer at 1.770.518.1133 for more information about your rights and about your potential recovery.

*Source: Georgia Governor's Office of Highway Safety, Georgia Bicycle Laws