Although the Georgia General Assembly this year enacted a law requiring that motorists give bicyclists three feet of space when passing, the hard work for Georgia Bikes! is just now beginning.
The statewide bicycle advocacy group is launching promotions to ensure that motorists know about the law that goes into effect July 1.
The information campaign includes public service announcements and a series of “3 Feet 2 Pass” bicycle rides scheduled in six cities over the July 1st weekend. Says Georgia Bikes! executive director Brent Buice:
18th state
When Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal signed House Bill 101 into law on May 11, the state became the 18th to require motorists give bicyclists at least 3 feet of space when passing. Kansas was the only other state to enact a 3-foot law in 2011. See details about all 18 state 3-foot laws.
The Georgia measure was called the “Better Bicycling Bill” and passed due in part to grassroots support across the state. In addition to the 3-foot provision, there are other improvements in bicycling law in House Bill 101.
The law clarifies that bicycle lanes must be installed according to nationally recognized minimum safety standards, and that bicyclists have the right of way when traveling in a bicycle lane.
The law also cites when bicycles, currently recognized as vehicles in rules of the road, can move into the center of a traffic lane. It also views an extended right arm, or left arm pointed upward, as acceptable signals for a right turn.
Right road
It sounds like Georgia is taking the right route in continuing its advocacy for 3 feet after passage of the law. One of the frequent problems I've heard about the law is that motorists — and in some cases even police agencies — aren't aware of it.
The “3 Feet 2 Pass” bicycle rides are slated for Athens, Atlanta, Cobb County, LaGrange and Savannah. Check here at Georgia Bikes! website for details.
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