Georgia Bicycle Accident Lawyers

Georgia Bicycle Laws

Cyclists in Georgia must follow a set of safety regulations designed to protect everyone on the road. Key laws include:

• Stopping at all traffic lights and stop signs.
• Yielding to pedestrians in crosswalks and on sidewalks.
• Signaling turns and checking surroundings before changing lanes.
• Using the right-hand lane or staying close to the right edge of the road, except when turning left or passing.
• Pulling over at the first safe opportunity if five or more vehicles are lined up behind you.
• Using a white headlight and a red rear reflector after sunset or before sunrise.
• Riding no more than two abreast, unless on dedicated bike paths.
• Keeping at least one hand on the handlebars at all times.

By understanding and following these laws, cyclists can reduce their risk of accidents and stay safer on Georgia’s roads. Contact our Georgia bicycle accident lawyers for a FREE CONSULTATION if you’ve been injured.

How Georgia’s “Dead Red” Law Affects Cyclists

Georgia’s “Dead Red” law gives cyclists the ability to proceed through a red traffic signal if the signal does not detect their bicycle after coming to a full stop. This law addresses the issue of weight-based or sensor-based traffic lights that fail to change for bicycles. While it provides a useful solution, there are important safety considerations to keep in mind.

When using the “Dead Red” law, cyclists must:

• Wait for a reasonable amount of time at the light to confirm it isn’t changing.
• Look carefully in all directions to ensure that proceeding is safe.
• Yield to any oncoming vehicles or pedestrians before crossing.

This law is particularly helpful in areas where traffic signals are triggered by vehicle weight sensors rather than timers. It’s most commonly encountered at low-traffic intersections, rural roads, or late at night when traffic is sparse.

For cyclists in Georgia, understanding this law can prevent frustration at malfunctioning lights and ensure safer interactions with other road users.

Damages Available for Biking Accident Victims in Georgia

Victims of bicycle accidents in Georgia can seek various types of damages based on the extent of their injuries and the specifics of the incident. Here are some of the damages we may help you pursue in your case:

• Medical Bills:  This encompasses costs for hospital stays, surgeries, doctor appointments, medications, rehabilitation, and any future medical expenses arising from the accident.
• Lost Wages:  Victims can claim compensation for the income lost during their recovery and any potential future earnings if they are unable to return to work.
• Pain and Suffering:  This refers to compensation for both physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the accident. It may also cover loss of enjoyment of life and any effects on the victim’s overall well-being.
• Property Damage:  This includes the costs for repairing or replacing the bicycle and any other personal belongings that were damaged in the accident.
• Disability and Disfigurement:  If the accident results in a long-term or permanent disability or disfigurement, victims may receive additional compensation for how it affects their lives.
• Loss of Consortium:  If the injuries impact the victim’s relationship with their spouse or family, they may be compensated for the loss of companionship or support.
• Punitive Damages:  In situations where the responsible party acted with extreme recklessness or negligence, punitive damages may be awarded to penalize the wrongdoer and discourage similar behavior in the future.

Reach out to our Georgia bicycle accident lawyers today to ensure you receive the maximum compensation available.

Why Hire a Georgia Bike Accident Attorney?

Recovering from a bicycle accident can be overwhelming. Between dealing with injuries, mounting medical bills, and lost income, you need someone who will fight for your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. That’s where a dedicated Georgia bike accident attorney comes in.

At Thompson Law, we specialize in bicycle accident cases, and we’re here to make the legal process as smooth as possible for you. Our attorneys have a proven track record of winning substantial settlements, all while providing the personalized attention each client deserves. With us, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your case is in expert hands.

• No Upfront Fees, No Risk:  You don’t pay unless we win.
• Comprehensive Resources:  From top medical experts to accident reconstruction specialists, we leverage every resource to strengthen your case.
• Around-the-Clock Support:  You can reach us 24/7. We’re always here when you need us.

We understand what you’re going through, and our goal is to ease your burden. Contact us for a FREE CONSULTATION and let us start fighting for you today.

Leading Factors in Georgia Bicycle Crashes

Georgia’s roadways are bustling with motor vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians, but this mix often leads to dangerous situations. Some of the most frequent causes of bicycle accidents in Georgia include:

• Distracted Driving:  Motorists using their phones or otherwise not paying attention are a significant threat to cyclists.
• Speeding:  High-speed roads like Georgia 400 or I-285 often connect to surface streets where cyclists ride, making these areas particularly hazardous.
• Failure to Yield at Intersections:  Busy intersections in Atlanta and other urban areas see frequent accidents due to drivers not yielding to cyclists when turning or entering from a private drive.
• Running Red Lights or Stop Signs:  Metro Atlanta intersections such as those along Peachtree Street often become accident hotspots because drivers fail to follow traffic signals.
• Limited Bicycle Infrastructure:  In some parts of Georgia, bike lanes abruptly end or are poorly marked, leaving cyclists vulnerable to collisions. Areas outside downtown Atlanta and other city centers frequently lack adequate cycling infrastructure, increasing the risks for riders.

Understanding these common causes and the unique challenges Georgia’s roads present can help both drivers and cyclists take precautions. If you’ve been injured, contact our Georgia bicycle accident lawyers today for a FREE CONSULTATION 24/7.

Common Bicycle Accident Injuries in Georgia

Bicycle accidents often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection for cyclists. Our attorneys fight to secure full compensation for victims suffering from:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI):  Even with a helmet, cyclists can suffer concussions or severe brain trauma that affects cognitive function and daily life.
• Spinal Cord Injuries:  Damage to the spine can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, or permanent paralysis.
• Broken Bones and Fractures:  Cyclists often suffer broken arms, legs, ribs, or collarbones due to high-impact collisions.
• Internal Injuries:  Organ damage and internal bleeding may not be immediately visible but can be life-threatening.
• Road Rash and Severe Lacerations:  Sliding across pavement can cause deep abrasions, which may lead to infections and scarring.
• Soft Tissue Injuries:  Sprains, strains, and torn ligaments can result in long-term pain and reduced mobility.
• Facial and Dental Injuries:  Cyclists thrown from their bikes may suffer broken jaws, knocked-out teeth, or facial fractures.
• Psychological Trauma:  Many bicycle accident victims experience PTSD, anxiety, or depression, which can significantly impact their quality of life.

At Thompson Law, we understand the impact these injuries have on your life. Our legal team fights to recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care needs. If you’ve suffered injuries in a bicycle accident, contact us for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

How Long Do I Have to File a Bicycle Accident Lawsuit in Georgia?

In Georgia, you generally have two years from the date of your bicycle accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline means you could lose your right to pursue compensation. However, certain exceptions may extend or shorten this timeframe:

• Claims Against Government Entities:  If your accident involved a city, county, or state vehicle or a hazardous road condition caused by a government agency, you may have a much shorter deadline, often as little as six months to file a formal notice of your claim.
• Minors or Legally Incapacitated Individuals:  If the injured cyclist is a minor (under 18), the statute of limitations may be paused until they turn 18. In some cases, incapacitated individuals may also have an extended filing deadline.
• Wrongful Death Claims:  If a bicycle accident results in a fatality, the two-year statute of limitations typically begins on the date of death rather than the accident date.
• Discovery Rule Exceptions:  In rare cases, if an injury from the accident was not immediately discovered, the filing deadline may start from the date the injury was reasonably identified.

Given these complexities, it’s critical to act quickly. Our attorneys can help ensure you meet all deadlines and protect your right to compensation. Contact us today for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Our Attorneys Charge No Upfront Fees

Our bicycle accident attorneys do not require any upfront fees. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only receive payment from the settlement we secure for you. If we are unable to obtain a settlement or assist with your case, you won’t owe us anything.

Our team is available around the clock to discuss your bike accident. You can even connect with one of our attorneys over the phone before the insurance companies reach out and attempt to undermine your right to compensation. We have bilingual staff fluent in both Spanish and English.

Contact Thompson Law’s Georgia bicycle accident lawyers today for a FREE CASE EVALUATION. We only charge a fee if we win your case.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the driver who hit me doesn’t have enough insurance to cover my damages?

If the at-fault driver’s insurance policy isn’t enough to cover your medical bills and other losses, you may be able to file a claim under your underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage, if you have it. You may also have options to pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the driver or explore other avenues for compensation.

What should I do if the driver who hit me fled the scene?

If the driver left the accident scene, report the crash to the police immediately and provide any details you can about the vehicle. You may still be able to recover compensation through uninsured motorist (UM) coverage on your own insurance policy. An attorney can also help investigate whether traffic or security cameras captured the incident.

What happens if I was partially at fault for my bicycle accident?

Georgia follows comparative negligence laws, which means you can still receive compensation even if you were partially responsible. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault, you can still recover 80% of your total damages.

Can I get my bicycle replaced after an accident?

If the at-fault driver has property damage liability coverage, their insurance may pay for the repair or replacement of your bike. If you have homeowners or renters insurance, it may also cover bicycle damage, depending on your policy. A lawyer can help you negotiate a fair settlement if the insurance company undervalues your bike.

Can I file a claim if I was forced off the road but not hit?

Yes. If a motorist’s reckless or negligent actions (such as swerving into your lane, cutting you off, or running you off the road) caused your accident, they may still be held liable. Additionally, hazardous road conditions or missing signage may make a government agency or property owner responsible for your crash.

Do I need to report my bicycle accident to the police?

Yes. If your accident involved injuries, a motor vehicle, or significant property damage, you should call 911 and file a police report. This document can serve as important evidence when filing an insurance claim or lawsuit.

Can I still file a claim if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?

Yes. Georgia law does not require adults to wear helmets, so not wearing one does not automatically prevent you from recovering compensation. However, if your injuries involve head trauma, the defense may argue that your injuries could have been minimized with a helmet, which could impact your final settlement.

What if I was injured on a rental or electric bike?

If you were using a rental bike or e-bike when the accident happened, liability may depend on who caused the crash and whether the rental company properly maintained the bike. If another driver was at fault, their insurance should cover your injuries. However, if the accident was caused by a defective rental bike, the rental company or bike manufacturer could be liable.

Who is responsible if a road hazard caused my bicycle accident?

If you crashed due to potholes, uneven pavement, missing signage, or unsafe road conditions, the city, county, or state agency responsible for road maintenance may be liable. However, claims against government entities have strict deadlines, and an ante litem notice may need to be filed within six months to a year.

What if my accident was caused by a defective bicycle or bike part?

If your accident happened due to faulty brakes, a defective frame, or another equipment malfunction, you may have a product liability claim against the bike manufacturer, retailer, or repair shop. Product defects can include design flaws, manufacturing errors, or failure to warn about potential dangers.