Georgia Bicycling Rules of the Road

Since it is National Bike Month, it is a great time to review the Rules of the Road.

• Bicycles are vehicles and MUST obey traffic laws! Traffic laws that apply to vehicles also apply to bicycles. Bicyclists must obey stop signs, speed limits and traffic signals just as they would if driving a car.
• In Groups, ride no more that two abreast and as a courtesy ride single file when traffic is present in your travel direction.
• Ride on the right. Georgia Law states that bicyclists should ride as near to the right side of the roadways as possible. Bicyclists can move from the right when turning left, when avoiding hazards, when the lane is too narrow to share safely with a motor vehicle, when traveling the same speed as traffic and when passing another vehicle.
• At night, be seen!  Every bicycle must be equipped with a white front light and a rear red reflector, each visible from 300 feet. Rear red lights may be use as well.
• Don’t hit the road without a helmet! Bicycle helmets are a good idea for everyone, and required by law for every bicycle rider younger than age 16. They must be fastened on securely.
• Three Foot Rule. Motorists are required to pass cyclists by a distance of at least three feet.

Let’s all obey these rules and stay safe!

Decatur Active Living and Bike Decatur have produced a Bicycle Suitability Map for the city rating the road conditions for cycling as well as showing the location of bike lanes, water and bike parking. You can download one here, or stop by the Decatur Recreation Center or the Visitors Center to pick one up.