As roads become increasingly congested, pollution problems continue to increase, and the cost of operating a vehicle rises, people in Georgia are seeking healthier ways to travel. This is why bicycling in the state has become increasingly popular. However, bicycle accidents, which have been on the rise in Georgia for the past decade, are a distinct reality with the ever increasing population.*
There are a number of common causes of bicycle accidents, which include the following:
- Distracted riding. Bicyclists are just as easily distracted as drivers of vehicles. It is critical that a bicyclist pay attention to the road in front of them instead of texting, talking on a cellphone, surfing the internet, or using another form of mobile technology while biking.
- Speeding. While bicycles are certainly not as fast as automobiles, serious injuries and even death have been linked to a bicyclist who was going at an excessive rate of speed. Bikers should always ride at a reasonable speed to avoid accidents caused by hazardous road conditions, inclement weather and other vehicles on the roadway.
- Biking too close to a motor vehicle traffic lane. Drivers should always be located at least three feet from a bicycle to avoid a collision. Bicyclists should never assume that vehicles will provide them with enough space to safely operate their bikes.
- Disobeying traffic signs and signals. Bicyclists in Georgia are required to follow all road rules similar to drivers of automobiles. Bicyclists who fail to stop at a stop sign or at a red light risk being involved in a serious accident.
- Parked cars. Bicyclists should always be sure to exercise caution around parked cars. This is because when a driver of a vehicle opens his or her car door, a bicyclist could collide into it, resulting in severe injury.
