Serving Victims of Bike Accidents in Georgia
Cycling is a popular and eco-friendly way to get around Atlanta, but sharing the road with cars, trucks, and buses can be dangerous when drivers act carelessly. A single moment of negligence—such as a distracted driver failing to yield—can cause devastating injuries to a cyclist. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle crash caused by a negligent driver, you deserve justice and fair compensation.
At Van Sant Law, our skilled Atlanta bicycle accident lawyers are committed to protecting the rights of injured cyclists throughout Georgia. We understand how serious these accidents can be, and we fight tirelessly to hold negligent drivers accountable for their actions.
Georgia Bicycle Laws
Under Georgia law, bicycles are treated as vehicles, which means cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists on public roads. However, there are several specific rules that apply to cyclists and drivers alike to promote safety and prevent accidents.
Key Georgia bicycle laws include:
- Road Position: Cyclists must ride as close as practicable to the right-hand side of the road, except when turning left or avoiding obstacles.
- Bike Lanes: Drivers must yield to bicyclists in designated bike lanes.
- Passing Law: Georgia’s “Three Feet Law” requires motorists to leave at least three feet of space when overtaking a cyclist.
- Helmets: Riders under the age of 16 are required to wear helmets, though helmets are recommended for cyclists of all ages.
- Night Riding: Bicycles ridden at night must have a white front light visible from 300 feet and a red rear reflector visible from 200 feet.
When motorists fail to follow these laws—by speeding, crowding cyclists, or driving distracted—they put bicyclists at risk of serious harm. Van Sant Law helps victims hold these drivers accountable under Georgia’s personal injury laws.
Common Causes of Bike Accidents
Even when cyclists follow every rule, negligent drivers can cause catastrophic crashes. Our Atlanta bicycle accident lawyers have seen numerous collisions caused by:
- Distracted Driving: Texting, using a phone, or adjusting in-car devices can cause a driver to overlook a cyclist.
- Failure to Yield: Many accidents occur when drivers fail to yield at intersections or while turning.
- Dooring Accidents: A parked driver opening their car door without checking for cyclists can cause a sudden and severe impact.
- Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of injuries when collisions occur.
- Unsafe Lane Changes: Drivers who merge or change lanes without checking blind spots may sideswipe or cut off a cyclist.
- Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol or drug impairment often leads to reckless driving and poor judgment.
Identifying the cause of your crash is critical. Van Sant Law thoroughly investigates every case—reviewing police reports, gathering witness statements, and working with accident reconstruction experts to determine fault.
Common Types of Bicycle Accident Injuries
Because cyclists have little protection compared to drivers, injuries from a bicycle crash can be catastrophic. Even with a helmet and safety gear, the impact from a vehicle can result in catastrophic harm such as:
- Head and Brain Injuries: Including concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) that can lead to cognitive and emotional challenges.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Which can cause paralysis or long-term mobility issues.
- Broken Bones and Fractures: Particularly in the arms, legs, and ribs from impact or being thrown from the bike.
- Road Rash: Severe abrasions that can lead to scarring and infection.
- Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs from blunt-force trauma.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, and ligament damage that may not appear immediately but cause chronic pain.
Our team understands the medical, emotional, and financial challenges these injuries bring. We coordinate with your medical providers and expert witnesses to document the full extent of your injuries and losses.
Compensation from a Bicycle Accident Claim
If you’ve been injured by a negligent driver, you may be entitled to pursue compensation through a personal injury claim. In Georgia, accident victims can seek both economic and non-economic damages, which may include:
- Medical Expenses: Current and future hospital bills, rehabilitation, and therapy costs.
- Lost Wages: Income lost while you recover, and reduced earning potential if you can’t return to work.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
- Property Damage: Repair or replacement costs for your bicycle and gear.
- Punitive Damages: In cases of extreme negligence—such as DUI or reckless driving—the court may award additional damages to punish the at-fault driver.
Why Choose Us?
At Van Sant Law, our bicycle injury attorneys have substantial experience in assisting individuals through similar claims as they fight for compensation in a personal injury case. As you search for a lawyer to handle your case, it is important to remain highly selective to ensure the success of your case. Our bicycle injury lawyers have a significant amount of experience that can be put to use for your benefit. Our firm’s skills and recognition can be put to use for your benefit. Our firm’s founder has a 10.0 “Superb” Avvo rating. He has also obtained the Avvo Client’s Choice Award for reviews from past clients. If you are looking for an attorney with the credentials that can be put to use for your benefit, look no further than Van Sant Law.
