Introduction

This article examines Georgia statutes concerning bicycle operation and traffic control device compliance in the context of intersection collisions.

Scenario

A bicyclist rides through a residential neighborhood on Orange Street in Macon, Georgia. The bicyclist approaches a four-way intersection controlled by stop signs. Without stopping at the stop sign, the bicyclist enters the intersection. A vehicle proceeding through the intersection after stopping strikes the bicyclist. Both the bicyclist and vehicle occupants sustain injuries in the collision.

Georgia Law

Bicyclist Rights and Duties

Georgia Code § 40-6-291(a): “Every person operating a bicycle upon a roadway shall be granted all of the rights and shall be subject to all of the duties applicable to the driver of a vehicle by this chapter, except as to special regulations in this part and except as to those provisions of this chapter which by their nature can have no application.”

Obedience to Stop Signs

Georgia Code § 40-6-72(a): “Except when directed to proceed by a law enforcement officer, every driver of a vehicle approaching a stop sign shall stop at a clearly marked stop line or, if there is no stop line, before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection or, if there is no crosswalk, at the point nearest the intersecting roadway where the driver has a view of approaching traffic on the intersecting roadway before entering it.”

Right of Way at Intersections

Georgia Code § 40-6-72(b): “After having stopped, the driver shall yield the right of way to any vehicle which has entered the intersection from another highway or which is approaching so closely on said highway as to constitute an immediate hazard during the time when such driver is moving across or within the intersection.”

General Duty of Care

Georgia Code § 51-1-2: “Every person owes a duty to all other persons to exercise ordinary care not to injure them by any act or by any failure to act.”

Conclusion

The scenario describes a bicyclist who failed to stop at a stop sign in Macon, Georgia, resulting in a collision. Georgia Code § 40-6-291 subjects bicyclists to vehicle traffic laws. Georgia Code § 40-6-72 requires stopping at stop signs and yielding right of way. These statutes establish the framework for bicyclist responsibilities at intersections under Georgia law.

FAQ

Q: What duties does Georgia Code § 40-6-291 impose on bicyclists? A: Georgia Code § 40-6-291(a) states bicyclists “shall be subject to all of the duties applicable to the driver of a vehicle by this chapter.”

Q: What does Georgia Code § 40-6-72(a) require at stop signs? A: Georgia Code § 40-6-72(a) requires “every driver of a vehicle approaching a stop sign shall stop at a clearly marked stop line” or other specified locations.

Q: What right of way rules apply after stopping? A: Georgia Code § 40-6-72(b) states: “After having stopped, the driver shall yield the right of way to any vehicle which has entered the intersection from another highway or which is approaching so closely on said highway as to constitute an immediate hazard.”

Q: Where are bicycle operation laws found in the Georgia Code? A: Bicycle operation laws are found in Georgia Code Title 40, Chapter 6, Part 6.

Q: Does Georgia Code § 40-6-72 apply to bicyclists? A: Georgia Code § 40-6-291(a) makes bicyclists subject to the same duties as vehicle drivers, including stop sign requirements.

Legal Disclaimer

This article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice, recommendation, or guidance. It does not create an attorney-client relationship. No actions should be taken based on the content of this article. For any specific legal matter, consult with a qualified and licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.

Scenario Disclaimer

The scenario described is entirely fictional and intended solely for illustrative purposes. Any resemblance to real persons, events, or situations is purely coincidental.