Due to numerous people using the roads, metropolitan and urban areas are more prone to bicycle accidents. Atlanta has seen a recent increase in bicycle accidents because the metropolis has more than 500,000 residents within city limits, 2,000 of whom own bicycles and more than 300,000 own automobiles. In cities like this, accidents are very common. Due to the congested nature of the city, it is hard to avoid bicycle accidents. However, by following the instructions of Atlanta bicycle accident lawyers you can make the legal process of the bicycle accident go more smoothly. Since they are familiar with the many laws that apply specifically to bicycles in Georgia, they can help you to a great extent.
This article will give an overview of eight Georgia cycling rules that every rider should know to avoid accidents.
- New Three Feet Rule in Georgia
Georgia law states that a driver must leave a minimum of three feet between himself and the vehicle while passing a bicycle. But still, amendment 40-6-56 of O.C.G.A. Mandates that drivers be more considerate of bicyclists and slow down their cars.
Now, lane changes are only permitted when traffic circumstances allow them. When passing a bicycle, a car that can’t change lanes must slow down to a greater than 25 miles per hour or ten miles per hour less than the legal speed limit. Additionally, the car must give a bicycle a minimum of three feet of space when passing by it.
- Learn To Ride a Bicycle
People can only use a fixed bicycle seat when cycling. Riding on the handlebars of a bicycle is prohibited under section 40-6-292. You can use a bicycle by one person unless it has numerous seats meant for people.
- Riding Kids Around on a Bike
Children under the age of four cannot be passengers on bicycles unless they can securely fasten to a baby carrier, a bicycle trailer, or a child passenger seat. It is essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using the equipment.
- Riding a Bicycle While Carrying Things
It is against the law to ride a bicycle while carrying a bundle, parcel, or additional things if doing so controls the cyclist from maintaining contact with the handlebar with one hand.
- Using Lights While Riding a Bike
Bicycles must have front lights at dusk, according to Section 40-6-296(a). A minimum of 300 feet from the front, the light’s white light must be seen. There must be a red light on the rear of the bicycle that is visible from a minimum of 300 feet away.
- Conditions for Bicycle Helmet
Anyone under the age of 16 needs to wear a helmet when bicycling. You can define a bicycle helmet as any protective clothing that satisfies or surpasses the standards specified by the Snell Memorial Foundation or the American National Standards Institute.
- Cycling Must Comply with Traffic Laws
It is essential for cyclists to obey traffic regulations unless there is a conflict between the traffic rule and the special cycling law. At all stop signs and red lights, they must stop. Riders must make turns and pauses using hand signals.
- Brake Requirements
Every bicycle must have brakes that enable the cyclist to slide the wheels on a smooth, neat, and dry floor. A police officer in uniform is authorized to stop a bicycle and check that it meets these and other gear needs.
Conclusion
It is essential to remember that both the driver and the biker have rights and responsibilities. Many people see cyclists as opposing groups trying to coexist, but with little education about local laws, rules, and regulations for bicyclists, they can coexist safely.