Georgia Injury Law Blog
Georgia cyclists have beautiful roads to explore in our state, especially as we move into fall weather with (hopefully!) cooler temperatures. Unfortunately, not every bicycle meets the safety requirements recommended by Georgia Highway Safety. This is no small matter, since non-motorist fatalities are overrepresented among total accident fatalities in Georgia. Between 2019-2023, pedestrians and bicyclists represented less than one percent of individuals involved in motor vehicle crashes while accounting for 20% of fatalities.
Of course, not all accidents or fatalities can be prevented by cyclist behavior. However, cyclists involved in an accident caused by a motor vehicle are more likely to walk away if they can check “yes” for the following questions about their bikes (for the full list, see the Georgia Highway Safety Bicycle Safety Checklist):
- Do the wheels run properly, without wobbling?
- Do the tires contain any cuts, worn patches, or bald spots?
- Do the brakes stop the bike quickly and smoothly?
- Are the spokes unbroken? (If spokes are tight, they will make a high-pitched noise when plucked).
- Is the chain in good condition, clean and well-lubricated? Check carefully for rust.
- Do the pedals turn easily without moving side to side?
- Is the seat secure and parallel to the ground?
- Are nuts, bolts, and fasteners tight in the frame?
- Does the bike have a white light in front, visible from 300 feet?
- Is there a red light or red reflector in the rear, with is visible from 300 feet?
If your child is riding his or her own bicycle, it’s even more urgent that you check the bicycle frequently and regularly for any signs of wear and tear. For children cyclists in particular, you also want to make sure that their current bicycle can still hold their weight as they grow, and replace with larger/ heavier bikes as needed.
We hope you and your family enjoy cycling this autumn with safe, well-maintained bikes.
The Atlanta auto accident lawyers at Katz Personal Injury Lawyers are dedicated to the representation of persons who have suffered injuries in auto accidents in the metro Atlanta region and across the state of Georgia. If you or a loved one have suffered injuries in a car accident, talk to a lawyer at our firm and discuss your legal options for a claim for damages. You may qualify for compensation that includes medical costs, lost income and other types of damages. Talk to an attorney at our firm and discuss your case. Initial consultations are free.