Remember, bicycles are vehicles. Bicyclists have the same rights on public roads as motor vehicle drivers. But bicycle riders are more vulnerable.
Follow the Motorists Passing Cyclist 3-Foot Law. Give bicycles at least 3 feet of safe distance when passing or following.
Be alert and attentive when driving. When turning, look for and yield to bikes and pedestrians. Be particularly cautious with your blind spots. Use extra caution when driving in hard-to-see conditions, such as nighttime or bad weather.
Do not block bike lanes.
Check mirrors when opening doors, especially if parked next to a bike lane or on the street. Use the opposite hand trick, or Dutch Reach, and open your door with your right hand, scanning behind you before you open.
Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and stop well back from the crosswalk to give other vehicles an opportunity to see the crossing pedestrians so they can stop too. Never pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk. There may be people crossing where you cannot see.
Never drive under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. Avoid driving distractions like phones, food, and grooming. It is illegal to hold a phone while driving in Georgia.
Follow the speed limit, especially in areas that may have pedestrians such as downtown Brunswick or the St. Simons Pier Village , in school zones, and in residential neighborhoods.
When drivers maintain safe speeds and practice other safe driving behaviors, safer walking and cycling environments are created for you, your loved ones, and others in your community.
In the event of a crash...
…do not leave the scene of the crash. Check on all parties. Move to a safe location if possible. Call 911, especially if someone is injured. Even if no one is hurt, it is important to document and report crashes that involve bicycles and pedestrians.
Record the details. Write down the date, time, and location of the crash, as well as the name and contact information of anyone else involved, including witnesses. Take pictures or video if possible.Save all documentation. This could include police reports, medical evaluations, and/or damage estimates. File an insurance claim and follow through.