For Justice's Sake

Mar 31, 2022

Legal Rights for Bikers in Georgia

Biking is a great way to exercise and explore Metro Atlanta. But anyone who’s shared the road with other vehicles knows that driver negligence can lead to a costly or tragic accident. Attorney Daniel Adamson, who’s an avid Georgia biker himself, talks about legal options for cyclists, and safety precautions to avoid an accident. Backstory: Parts of Downtown Atlanta have seen a 27% increase in pedestrian traffic and about an 11% decrease in car traffic–if you can believe it! Part of this is due to an initiative called the Peachtree Shared Space program that started in June 2021, but is soon coming to an end. In July of last year, Georgia passed a law that required cars to slow down or change lanes with at least 3 feet of space if they are trying to pass a biker. It would be nice if more areas were as friendly to cyclists as the Beltline and local parts, but there is always the possibility of an accident caused by distracted or negligent drivers, walkers, or bikers. Topics: * When should a biker consider taking legal action against a driver if they’re in an accident? * What factors are considered if a biker has a lawsuit against a driver in an accident? * Can cyclists take legal action if they’re injured from hazardous roadways or walkways? * Are there instances when the cyclist may be considered legally responsible for an accident, either with a vehicle or a pedestrian? * What should cyclists do if they’ve been in an accident or affected by a road hazard or in an accident? * How can cyclists practice safe riding? * Attorney Adamson's previous cases securing justice for bikers. Resources: • https://georgiabikes.org/resources/georgia-bike-laws/ • https://fox28media.com/news/local/new-georgia-bicycle-safety-law-to-take-effect-july-1 "Beginning this Thursday, July 1 [2021], a new bicycle safety traffic law goes into effect in Georgia. When passing a bicyclist, a driver must move over into the adjacent lane if it is safe and legal to do so. If unable to move over, the driver must slow down to a speed that is either ten miles below the posted speed limit or 25mph, whichever is higher. As currently required by law, drivers must also allow at least 3 feet of room between their vehicle and a bicyclist when passing." Podcast also available on: Google Podcast BuzzSprout Spotify Anchor.fm Follow @dixonfirm on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Subscribe to our monthly email newsletter for podcast updates, free legal tips, AND our monthly $50 restaurant giveaway. Visit dixonfirm.com or call 888-DIXON-11 (888-349-6611) for more personal injury resources and to schedule a free legal consultation. Intro/outro music: "Fresh Start" by Joakim Karud

9 min