r/gatech • u/GT_Ghost_86 • 21h ago
Discussion Beginning of the academic year and bicycles.
First, to make something abundantly clear. I love to ride a bike. Bicycles are often the superior mode of transportation.\ \ That being said, there are laws concerning the use of bicycles. This site is bike friendly, and has some excellent information. https://bicycleaccidentlawyers.com/bicycle-laws/georgia/ \ \ The following is copied from their page, with my emphasis on three items:
Key Georgia Bicycle Laws at a Glance
- Bicycles are legally classified as vehicles under Georgia law. Cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists and must obey all traffic laws (O.C.G.A. 40-6-290 to 40-6-299).
- Riders under 16 must wear a helmet (O.C.G.A. 40-6-296). Bicycles must have a front white light and a rear red light or reflector, both visible from at least 300 feet, when riding at night.
- Cyclists must ride as near to the right side as practicable, except in situations such as left turns, hazards, narrow lanes, or other listed exceptions (O.C.G.A. 40-6-294).
- Drivers must leave at least 3 feet when passing a cyclist and, when safe, change lanes to pass (O.C.G.A. 40-6-56).
- Riding on sidewalks is prohibited for cyclists over 12 years of age, except where explicitly permitted by local ordinance.
- Cyclists must stop at all stop signs and red lights, just as motorists do.
- Cyclists cannot ride more than two abreast on a roadway, except on paths designated exclusively for bicycles (O.C.G.A. 40-6-294(b)).
- Bicycles are not allowed on controlled-access highways or interstates.
- Electric-assisted bicycles are regulated similarly to standard bicycles, provided the motor disengages at 20 mph or less (Class 1 and 2) or 28 mph (Class 3).
- Cyclists must use hand signals to indicate left turns, right turns, and stops. \ \ I know, in a hilly city, "Cyclists must stop at all stop signs and red lights, just as motorists do." absolutely sucks. Too bad.\ \
Cyclists who ignore these matters are part of the reason that the entire population is viewed with a mix of distrust and loathing. Also, failure to follow the laws for a vehicle endangers the bicyclist and others.