New Georgia Law Requires Drivers Yield Space to Bicyclists

Georgia cyclists are celebrating what they say is the biggest improvement to the state’s bike safety laws in decades.

A new traffic law requires cars and trucks to keep at least 3 feet of distance from bicycles when passing them on the road. The measure took effect July 1, and biking clubs across the state were planning on holding group rides over the Fourth of July weekend to raise awareness among motorists.

Frank McIntosh of the Savannah Bicycle Campaign said the change was needed because Georgia law previously only required passing drivers to keep a “safe distance” from cyclists. He said that was too vague.

Georgia Bikes, a nonprofit group, lobbied for the new rule. Its director, Brent Buice (BICE), said it’s the most important change to Georgia biking laws since the 1970s.