Introduction

This article provides general information about Georgia statutes related to bicycle operation and pedestrian rights. The information presented consists of direct quotations from Georgia law and does not constitute legal interpretation or advice.

Scenario

A cyclist rides a bicycle on the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail in Macon, Georgia. A jogger runs on the same multi-use path. The cyclist approaches the jogger from behind. As the cyclist attempts to pass, a collision occurs between the cyclist and the jogger. Both individuals fall to the ground on the paved trail.

Georgia Law

Rights and Duties of Cyclists

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.”

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.”

Bicycles on Sidewalks and Paths

Georgia Code § 40-6-294(f): “Any person operating a bicycle upon a sidewalk or across a roadway upon and along a crosswalk shall yield the right of way to any pedestrian and shall give an audible signal before overtaking and passing such pedestrian.”

Due Care for Safety of All

Georgia Code § 40-6-91(a): “Notwithstanding other provisions of this chapter, every driver of a vehicle shall exercise due care to avoid colliding with any pedestrian upon any roadway and shall give warning by sounding the horn when necessary and shall exercise proper precaution upon observing any child or any confused, incapacitated, or intoxicated person.”

Conclusion

The scenario describes a collision between a cyclist and jogger on a trail in Macon, Georgia. Georgia Code § 40-6-291 addresses cyclist rights and duties. Georgia Code § 51-1-2 addresses the general duty of care. Georgia Code § 40-6-294 addresses bicycles on paths. These statutes establish the framework for cyclist responsibilities under Georgia law.

FAQ

Q: What does Georgia Code § 40-6-291 state about cyclist duties? A: Georgia Code § 40-6-291(a) states every person operating a bicycle “shall be granted all of the rights and shall be subject to all of the duties applicable to the driver of a vehicle.”

Q: What does Georgia law require when a cyclist overtakes a pedestrian? A: Georgia Code § 40-6-294(f) states a person operating a bicycle “shall yield the right of way to any pedestrian and shall give an audible signal before overtaking and passing such pedestrian.”

Q: What general duty does Georgia Code § 51-1-2 impose? A: Georgia Code § 51-1-2 states: “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.”

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

Q: Does Georgia Code § 40-6-91 apply to avoiding pedestrian collisions? A: Georgia Code § 40-6-91(a) states “every driver of a vehicle shall exercise due care to avoid colliding with any pedestrian upon any roadway.”

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.