There’s no question that scooters and bicycles offer convenient modes of transportation when you are trying to get from point A to point B in Georgia. No matter what part of the state you live in, there’s a good chance you have seen countless commuters using the handy electric scooters, personal bicycles, or even walking. Chances are you have even done this yourself.
However, most options may conflict with motorists who are sharing the roadway. What this means is that accidents are always a possibility, and if this does happen, then it is the pedestrian, bicycle rider, or scooter rider who is at the highest risk for injuries. If you find yourself in this situation, a good first step is to contact personal injury lawyer in Georgia. We have years of experience handling cases like these and can help you recover the compensation you deserve.
No matter if you are a pedestrian, riding a scooter, or a bicycle, you have specific rules to follow. If you are following the rules when an accident occurs, and you can prove another party was negligent, you can file a claim. Keep reading to learn more about the laws that apply in the area.
Bicycle Laws in Georgia
In Georgia, bicycles are considered vehicles. Because of this, they have the same responsibilities and rights as other vehicle drivers. However, there are a few exceptions to this. Some of the specific rules that apply to bicycle riders include:
- Ride close to the right of the roadway except when turning, trying to avoid hazards, overtaking vehicles, or riding in a small lane.
- Ride in the same direction as traffic.
- Bike lanes are exclusively for bicyclists, but bicyclists aren’t required to use them unless a local ordinance requires it.
- Riders over 12 cannot ride on a sidewalk unless the local ordinance allows it.
- Riders must signal when stopping or turning.
- Riders must slow down and stop completely at traffic signals and stop signs.
Scooter Laws in Georgia
For those riding electric scooters in Georgia, there are a few rules they must follow, too. These include:
- Sidewalks are off-limits
- Riders must obey all traffic laws
- Riders must follow the flow of traffic
- Riders must yield to pedestrians
- It’s illegal to use a cell phone while riding an electric scooter
Pedestrian Laws in Georgia
Some of the most important things to know when it comes to pedestrian laws in Georgia include:
- All motorists must yield to pedestrians
- Pedestrians are required to obey traffic control signals and signs
- Pedestrians aren’t allowed to walk on the edge of the road or the shoulder of the road while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Pedestrians can’t walk or stand on the edge of the road where sidewalks are present unless the road is free from vehicles or if the sidewalk presents a serious hazard.
What Happens if You Are Injured in a Pedestrian, Scooter, or Bicycle Accident in Georgia?
If you are injured in an accident as a pedestrian, scooter rider, or bicyclist, you need to take steps to protect your rights. If you were following the rules and regulations in place, you would likely be able to prove that the accident was the fault of the other party. However, it is a good idea to hire a personal injury lawyer to help you with this.
The fact is, personal injury claims can be complex, and because of this, you need someone who can easily navigate the legal process and help you recover the compensation you deserve. At Hines Law, you can count on our legal team to provide you with the quality representation you need, no matter how serious or minor your accident was.
Protecting Your Rights
If you want to ensure you file a successful lawsuit, you need to ensure that you collect evidence at the scene and seek medical treatment right away. This is going to help support your claim.
At Hines Law, you can count on us to work for you and aggressively defend you to help you recover the compensation deserved after being involved in an accident. Contact us today for a free consultation!
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