Bicycles share most of the same rights on the road as motor vehicles, but this means that cyclists must also follow many of the same rules. This is important because it means that cyclists can be issued traffic citations, and it can also affect how fault is determined after a bicycle accident.
Keep reading below to learn more about five of the most important bicycle laws in Georgia.
#1: Ride With Traffic
Bicycle riders should always ride with traffic and not against it. Riding against traffic creates shorter reaction times, especially at intersections.
Additionally, motor vehicle drivers can more easily overlook or fail to see a bicycle that is riding in the opposite direction of the traffic flow. This could put the cyclist sharing some of the responsibility after an accident.
#2: Nighttime Riding Requires Lights and Reflectors
Cyclists who ride at night must have proper lights and reflectors on their bicycles. Riding without a light makes it difficult to be seen, which could easily result in an accident.
Georgia law states that all bicycles operated at night must be equipped with a white front light visible from 300 feet and a red rear light visible from 300 feet. An approved red reflector on the rear may be substituted for the rear light.
#3: Ride as Near to the Right Side as Practicable
Riders should always ride as close to the right side of the road as practicable, but keep in mind that this does not always mean as far right as possible. In some situations, especially very narrow roadways, it may be safer for the bicycle to own the lane instead of attempting to share it with vehicles.
There are also some exceptions to this rule, such as when:
- Turning left
- Riding at the same speed as traffic
- Avoiding hazards
- There is a “right turn only” lane, and the cyclist is not turning right
Your top priority here should be safety, so always choose the riding position that will be the safest for everyone involved.
#4: No Carrying Passengers
The bicycle laws in Georgia actually state that you cannot ride a bicycle carrying more passengers than the bicycle was designed for. So, in most cases, this means that only the rider may ride the bike.
The law also expressly prohibits anyone from riding on the handlebars of the bicycle. If you allow someone to ride on the handlebars, you could be found liable for negligence if they get hurt in an accident.
#5: You Can Be Charged With a DUI on a Bike
Many people do not realize that you can be charged with a DUI if you ride your bicycle while under the influence. Georgia’s DUI law states that you can be charged with a DUI if you operate a “moving vehicle” while under the influence. Notice that it does not state that the vehicle has to be a motor vehicle.
In Georgia, bicycles are considered to be vehicles. This means that you could be arrested for a DUI if you operate your bicycle after drinking or using drugs, and you could find yourself facing some serious fines and even jail time.
Getting Help After a Bicycle Accident
If you are hurt in a bicycle accident, evidence about how the crash happened can become important when determining fault. Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence system, so compensation may be affected if an injured cyclist is found partly responsible for the accident.
After a bicycle accident, consider taking these steps when you are able:
- Seek medical attention for your injuries
- Report the accident to law enforcement
- Take photos of the bicycle, vehicles, roadway, and surrounding area
- Get contact information from drivers and witnesses
- Keep medical records, bills, and other accident-related documents
- Avoid giving an insurance company a recorded statement before understanding your options
The insurance company may examine whether everyone involved followed applicable traffic laws. An Atlanta bicycle accident lawyer can investigate the collision, preserve relevant evidence, and address attempts to place an unfair share of the fault on the cyclist.
Contact the Atlanta Bicycle Accident Lawyers at Rafi Law Firm for Help Today
A bicycle accident can leave you dealing with injuries, medical expenses, lost income, and questions about who was responsible for the crash. Rafi Law Firm can investigate what happened, gather evidence, deal with the insurance companies, and pursue compensation available under Georgia law.
Contact Rafi Law Firm today to schedule a free consultation with an Atlanta bicycle accident attorney.
We proudly serve clients throughout Fulton County and the greater Atlanta metro area in Georgia.
Rafi Law Firm – Atlanta
1776 Peachtree St NW UNIT 423, Atlanta, GA 30309
(404) 800-9933
