Make sure you know the laws and safety rules for riding bicycles in Georgia:
- Stay off the sidewalk. Only riders under the age of 12 are allowed to ride on a sidewalk.
- Motorists must give cyclists a three-foot buffer between their vehicle and the bicycle when passing.
- Cyclists have the right of way in bike lanes, but not every motorist is aware of this.
- Make turns carefully. Always signal your intentions and try to catch the eyes of a driver when you’re in an intersection to make sure he or she knows you are there.
- When passing a car, pass on the left, just as you would if you were in a motor vehicle.
- Wear bright clothing and make sure to have the proper equipment on your bike to ensure you are visible.
- Be predictable on the road. Flow with traffic. Maintain a consistent line of travel.
Most bicycle crashes occur in an urban setting rather than on rural roads. About one-third of bike injuries in 2015 occurred at intersections. Men are more at risk for injuries and fatalities on bicycles.
If you are in an accident and have serious injuries, you might want to talk to an attorney about your case before settling with an insurance company or if you are having problems with your claim. A legal advocate can help you present your case well and ensure you receive compensation if the accident was due to another driver’s negligence.
