Atlanta Bike Laws

Atlanta bicycle accidents and injuries are increasing at an alarming rate, as we have previously written. Yesterday, the Atlanta Journal Constitution published a story which echoed our information and addressed the growing conflict between bikers and automobile drivers.
Many bike riders, and most motorists, do not realize that under Georgia law and in most other states, a bike is considered a vehicle; and, with some exceptions, is subject to the same laws and rules as a motor vehicle. There are specific laws which relate only to bicycles and we will address some of them here. At a later time we will discuss some of the most pertinent general vehicle laws as they apply to bicycles.
The laws specific to bicycles are found in the Georgia Official Code beginning at section 40-6-290. That section provides that the laws which follow apply to bicycles while on the roadways and on any path set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles. The next section, 40 – 6- 291 makes bicycles subject to the laws applying to other vehicles on the roadways.
The subsequent sections are specific to bikes.
Section 40-6-292 provides, among other things, that no person shall ride on the handlebars of a bike, that a bike shall not carry more persons than it is designed to carry, that children and infants must be transported in approved trailers or slings, and wear helmets.
Section 40-6-293 prohibits a bike rider from clinging to another vehicle, such as a car while on a roadway.
We will address other specific bike laws in the next installment of this blog.