The Savannah Morning News reported that Matthew Andreas Kohler was rear-ended by a car while biking in Bloomingdale, Georgia on U.S. Highway 80. Mr. Kohler was transported to Memorial University Medical Center and died on July 27, 2012.
Collisions occur daily, but when a heavy vehicle collides with a lightweight bicycle, this can be even more tragic. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, two percent of traffic fatalities in 2009 involved bicycle accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends that every state develop and implement a bicycle safety program that educates drivers and promotes safety.
Georgia requires bicyclists under the age of 16 to wear a safety-approved helmet that is properly secured and fits, and the NHTSA advises everyone to wear a helmet as the best way to minimize the risk of head injuries. Georgia also has the following bicycle safety laws:
- Bicyclists must ride on the road. Only children under 12 can legally ride on sidewalks
- Bicyclists must operate their vehicles in the same direction as other traffic
- Bicyclists should use the whole road when the roads are in bad condition
- Two cyclists may ride side-by-side
- Georgia law suggests that bicyclists should wear reflective clothing in the dark, but rear and front bicycle lights are mandated at night
- Cyclists must observe the same traffic laws as other vehicles
Taking these precautions is essential because a bicycle is lightweight and does not afford the same protection as other vehicles. However, even following these safety measures, biking collisions can happen. If you are a victim of a bicycle accident, the Tate Law Group's Savannah attorneys are experienced litigating and settling bicycle accidents. Contact us to receive vigorous, competent representation that can help you receive compensation for your injuries.
