10 Important Bicycle Laws in Georgia

Bicycles are considered vehicles in Georgia. Therefore, they are subject to state traffic laws. In addition, several laws apply specifically to bicycles.

Ten Bicycle Laws Riders Need to Know

Following traffic laws can reduce the risk of a bicycle accident. Let’s discuss some of the bicycle laws that help keep riders safe.

1.  Update to Georgia’s Three Feet Law

Drivers in Georgia were required to give bicyclists at least three feet of distance when passing a bicycle. However, amendments to O.C.G.A. §40-6-56 require drivers to slow down and give bicyclists more room.

Drivers are now required to change lanes if traffic conditions permit. If the driver cannot change lanes, they must reduce the speed of their vehicle to ten miles below the posted speed limit or 25 miles per hour, whichever is greater, when passing a cyclist. In addition, the driver must give the bicyclist at least three feet of clearance when passing.

2.  Manner of Riding a Bicycle

Individuals may only ride a bicycle on a permanent and regular bicycle seat. Riding on a bicycle’s handlebars is specifically prohibited by §40-6-292(a). There should never be more than one person riding a bicycle unless the bicycle is equipped for more than one person.

3.  Transporting Children on a Bicycle

Children under the age of one year should not be passengers on a bicycle — unless the child is in a bicycle trailer or an infant sling. The use of a bicycle trailer or infant sling must be in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Children between the ages of one and four years cannot ride as a passenger on a bicycle unless the child is securely seated in a child passenger bicycle seat, an infant sling, or a bicycle trailer. The devices must be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

4.  Carrying Articles While Riding a Bicycle

Carrying bundles, packages, or other objects while operating a bicycle is prohibited if it prevents the rider from keeping at least one hand on the handlebars.

5.  Use of Lights on a Bicycle

Section 40-6-296(a) requires that bicycles have a light on the front of the bicycle at night. The light must emit a white light visible from a distance of at least 300 feet to the front. A red light must be visible on the back of the bicycle from a distance of at least 300 feet from the rear.

6.  Bicycle Helmet Requirements

All persons 16 years of age and younger must wear a bicycle helmet when riding a bicycle.

A “bicycle helmet” means protective headgear that meets or exceeds the standards for bicycle helmets set by the American National Standards Institute or the Snell Memorial Foundation.

7.  Where Can Bicyclists Ride?

Bicycles are required to ride as near the right portion of the road as safely possible, except when traveling the speed limit or passing a vehicle.

Bicycle lanes are for the exclusive use of bicycles. Bicyclists over the age of 12 years cannot ride on sidewalks unless a local ordinance allows for bicycles on sidewalks.

8.  Two Bicycles Per Lane

Bicyclists cannot ride more than two cycles side-by-side except on paths or roads designed for the exclusive use of bicycles.

9.  Bicyclists Must Obey Traffic Laws

Except when the traffic law conflicts with a specific bicycle law, bicyclists must follow traffic laws. They must stop at all red lights and stop signs. Riders must use hand signals when turning or coming to a stop.10. Requirement for Brakes

All bicycles must be equipped with a brake that allows the rider to make braked wheels skid on level, dry, clean pavement. A uniformed police officer may stop and inspect a bicycle to ensure it meets this requirement and other equipment requirements.

Bicycle Safety Tips in Atlanta, GA

In 2019, 846 bicyclists lost their lives in traffic crashes nationwide. In addition, thousands of riders are injured in crashes with motor vehicles.

Bicyclists can take steps to protect themselves when riding a bicycle in Atlanta.

Bicycle safety tips include:

• Always avoid distractions while riding
• Do not wear headphones or earbuds while riding
• Never ride a bicycle while impaired by alcohol or drugs
• Obey all traffic signals and traffic laws
• Wear a bicycle helmet and protective gear
• Use reflectors and lights to increase visibility

If you are involved in a bicycle crash, call 911 to report the crash. Seek immediate medical treatment for your injuries and document the damages if you need to file an injury claim. You can also consult an Atlanta bicycle accident lawyer to determine your options for recovering compensation after your crash.