Bicycle Laws in Georgia
Understanding bicycle laws in Georgia is crucial for both cyclists and motorists. Under Georgia law, bicycles are legally considered vehicles, meaning cyclists have many of the same rights and responsibilities as drivers. Some key laws include:
- Road Use: Cyclists must ride as close as practicable to the right side of the roadway, except when turning or avoiding hazards.
- Bike Lanes: If a designated bike lane is present, bicyclists should use it when safe to do so.
- Passing Law: Georgia’s “3-foot passing law” requires drivers to leave at least three feet of clearance when overtaking a cyclist.
- Helmets: Riders under 16 must wear helmets. While not required for adults, helmets are strongly encouraged.
- Lighting: Bicycles ridden at night must have a front white light visible from 300 feet and a red rear reflector or light visible from 300 feet.
When drivers ignore these laws, accidents often occur. Our Gainesville bicycle accident attorney can investigate whether a driver violated these rules and hold them accountable.
Common Causes of Bike Accidents
Driver negligence is one of the leading causes of bicycle accidents in Georgia. Some of the most frequent causes include:
- Failure to yield: Drivers often misjudge or ignore a cyclist’s right of way, especially at intersections.
- Distracted driving: Texting, using GPS, or other distractions take drivers’ attention off the road.
- Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to avoid collisions and increases the severity of injuries.
- Unsafe lane changes: Drivers who fail to check blind spots or crowd bike lanes put cyclists at risk.
- Dooring accidents: Cyclists can be hit when a parked driver opens a car door without checking for oncoming bikes.
- Driving under the influence: Alcohol or drugs impair a driver’s judgment, reaction time, and coordination.
No matter the cause, a skilled Gainesville bicycle accident attorney can investigate the crash, gather evidence, and hold the negligent party accountable.
Common Types of Injuries
Because bicycles offer little protection compared to motor vehicles, cyclists are especially vulnerable to catastrophic injuries in a crash. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Head injuries and concussions – even with helmets, riders can suffer traumatic brain injuries.
- Spinal cord injuries – collisions can result in partial or complete paralysis.
- Fractures and broken bones – arms, legs, and collarbones are especially susceptible.
- Road rash and lacerations – skin injuries from sliding on pavement can lead to infections and scarring.
- Internal injuries – damage to organs from blunt force trauma can be life-threatening.
- Psychological trauma – many survivors struggle with anxiety, depression, or PTSD after an accident.
These injuries often require extensive medical care, rehabilitation, and time away from work.
Compensation from a Bicycle Accident Claim
If your accident was caused by a negligent driver, you may be entitled to compensation for both economic and non-economic damages, including:
- Medical expenses – hospital bills, surgeries, physical therapy, and ongoing treatment.
- Lost income – wages lost while recovering and diminished earning capacity if you cannot return to work.
- Pain and suffering – compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
- Property damage – repair or replacement of your bicycle and other personal belongings.
- Wrongful death damages – if the accident resulted in a fatality, families may pursue funeral expenses, lost companionship, and other related damages.
Our team at Van Sant Law can help calculate the full extent of your losses and fight for a settlement or verdict that reflects your needs.
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If you are hesitating to call us for help, take a look at our recent case results.
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$750K Neck Injury Involving Commercial Vehicle
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$100K Policy Limit Settlement for Client Involved in Car Accident With Shoulder Injuries
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$400K For a Woman Who Sustained Neck Injury in Motor Vehicle Accident
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$650K For Client Who Suffered a Back Injury in a Rear-End Collision
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$3.5 Million Car Accident
Bike Accident FAQs
What should I do immediately after a bicycle accident in Gainesville?
Seek medical attention right away, even if you feel fine. Call the police to file an accident report. Collect contact information from the driver and any witnesses, and take photos of the scene if possible. Then, contact a Gainesville bicycle accident attorney to protect your rights.
How long do I have to file a bike accident claim in Georgia?
In Georgia, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. Wrongful death claims also have a two-year deadline. Missing this deadline can prevent you from recovering compensation.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can still recover damages if you were less than 50% at fault, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Do I need an attorney for a bicycle accident claim?
Yes. Insurance companies often try to blame cyclists or downplay injuries. An experienced Gainesville bicycle accident attorney can gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and fight for maximum compensation on your behalf.
How much does it cost to hire Van Sant Law?
We handle bicycle accident cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we win your case.
Speak with a Gainesville Bicycle Accident Lawyer
At Van Sant Law, we are committed to protecting the rights of injured cyclists in Gainesville and throughout Georgia. We understand the challenges bike accident victims face, from mounting medical bills to the long road of recovery. Our legal team has the experience, resources, and dedication to fight for the compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident caused by a negligent driver, don’t face the insurance companies alone.
Contact Van Sant Law today to schedule a free consultation with a trusted Gainesville bicycle accident attorney.
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My attorney, David Van Sant and his law firm were outstanding in handling my personal injury case. I was out of work for a considerable amount of time due to an automobile accident and Mr. Van Sant and his entire team were always kind, professional, knowledgeable and especially available. This law firm did their absolute best to answer and return calls and at no time did I ever feel like just a number or stranger. My experience with Mr. Van Sant and his law firm (from beginning to end), were very positive as well as favorable.
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Attorney David M. Van Sant is one of the best injury trial attorneys here in the Atlanta area. They are precise and unique in their approach. When I had my car accident, my whole world was turned upside down, but with Attorney Van Sant and his team of professionals dedication and quality of service, my life is back on track.
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