Atlanta Bicycle Accidents

Riding a bike in Atlanta can be a great way to get around – from the BeltLine’s scenic paths to city streets – but it also comes with risks. Bicycle accidents in the Atlanta area are unfortunately common and often result in serious injuries to cyclists.

Lets talk about key statistics in Atlanta bicycle crashes, Georgia bike laws (and how fault is determined), the common causes and consequences of bike accidents, what to do immediately after a crash, and the legal process of pursuing an injury claim. The goal is to inform and empower Atlanta cyclists with useful information – not promotions – so you understand your rights and options after a bicycle accident.

Bicycle Accidents in Atlanta: By the Numbers

Atlanta has seen a steady rise in cycling activity in recent years, and with it, a concerning number of crashes. Statewide data shows that Georgia reported 830 bicycle crashes in 2022, and this jumped to 925 in 2023. In 2022, 29 bicyclists were killed in Georgia traffic accidents – the highest toll in a decade. Thankfully, 2023 saw a slight decrease to 23 fatalities statewide.

A significant share of these incidents happen in the Atlanta metro region. Roughly 13% of Georgia’s bicycle-vehicle collisions occur within Atlanta city limits, and about 43% in the broader metro area. In 2022, Atlanta recorded 79 bike-auto crashes, with 91% resulting in cyclist injuries. Fulton County reported 154 bike crashes in 2023.

Many collisions occur in high-traffic zones lacking bike infrastructure – such as Edgewood Avenue near GSU, Techwood Drive by Georgia Tech, and Trinity Avenue near the State Capitol. 55% of bicycle crashes in Georgia occur at intersections, often due to unclear right-of-way rules.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

• Driver Failing to Yield or Turning Into Cyclists: Includes “right hook” and “left cross” crashes. Georgia drivers must yield to cyclists.
• Unsafe Passing: Drivers must allow at least three feet when passing cyclists.
• Driver Distraction or Speeding: Common causes include red light running and texting while driving.
• Dooring Incidents: Common in Downtown and Midtown areas.
• Road Hazards: Potholes or debris can force cyclists into traffic.
• Cyclist Error: Such as riding against traffic or failing to use lights at night.

In 2022, Georgia hospitals reported over $74 million in cyclist injury-related charges. Physical and emotional consequences are often severe.

Georgia Bicycle Laws and Cyclists’ Rights

• Bicycles Are Vehicles: Cyclists have the same rights as drivers.
• Lane Positioning: Cyclists must stay right unless unsafe or turning.
• Bike Lanes: Optional to use; cyclists may leave them when needed.
• Sidewalk Riding: Not allowed for those over 12 unless permitted locally.
• 3-Foot Passing Law: Drivers must allow at least 3 feet.
• Helmet Law: Required for riders under 16 only; not wearing one isn’t considered negligence.
• Lighting Requirements: White front light and red rear reflector required at night.

Learn more from the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety or Georgia Bikes.

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in Atlanta

1. Ensure Safety and Get Medical Attention
   • Move out of traffic.
   • Call 911.
2. Call the Police and File a Report
   • Report the crash, regardless of severity.
   • Request a copy of the police report.
3. Exchange Information
   • Get the driver’s contact and insurance details.
4. Gather Witnesses
   • Ask for names and contact info.
5. Document the Scene
   • Take photos of injuries, damage, and conditions.
6. Seek Medical Care
   • Some injuries surface hours or days later.
7. Preserve Evidence
   • Save your bike, clothing, and gear.
8. Be Cautious with Insurance
   • Avoid giving statements without legal advice.
9. Contact an Attorney
   • Legal help is crucial for injury claims.

Fault and Liability in Georgia Bike Crashes

Georgia uses a modified comparative negligence rule:

• You can recover if you’re less than 50% at fault.
• Recovery is reduced by your fault percentage.

Examples:

• If you’re 20% at fault and the driver is 80%, you can recover 80% of your damages.
• If you’re 50% or more at fault, you can’t recover any damages.

Important: Not wearing a helmet does not count against you under Georgia law.

Legal Process and Compensation

1. Filing a Claim: Submit to the at-fault driver’s insurer.
2. Negotiation: A settlement may be offered.
3. Lawsuit (if necessary): File within 2 years of the accident if needed.
4. Compensation Can Include:
   • Medical bills
   • Lost wages
   • Pain and suffering
   • Property damage
   • Loss of life enjoyment

Note: Georgia’s minimum auto liability coverage is $25,000. Serious injuries may require additional claims or legal action.

Local Resources for Cyclists in Atlanta

Resource	Description	Link
Georgia Bikes	Advocacy, safety tips, law summaries	georgiabikes.org
Propel ATL	Infrastructure maps, safety campaigns	propelatl.org
Atlanta BeltLine	Trail maps, project updates	beltline.org
GA DOT Crash Portal	Crash data and safety trends	gdot.ga.gov

Cycling in Atlanta is on the rise, but infrastructure and safety concerns remain. Georgia law offers protections — and injured cyclists have rights. Knowing what to do and where to turn can make all the difference.

For legal help with a bicycle accident injury, visit us online at Jamie Ballard Law or call 404-885-8544 for a consultation.

This post is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.