Security video circulating on social media depicts a bicycle accident that occurred Monday, January 13, 2025, at the intersection of Chandler Road and Olympic Boulevard. The video has prompted widespread speculation, leading Statesboro Police Chief Mike Broadhead to clarify the details and emphasize the importance of bicycle safety and adherence to Georgia law.
According to Chief Broadhead, police responded to the incident around 9:30 a.m. The video shows a bicyclist entering the intersection from the sidewalk when she was struck by a white SUV. The impact knocked the bicyclist off her bike, and the vehicle ran over the bicycle.
The SUV driver remained at the scene and cooperated with the investigation. The bicyclist was transported to East Georgia Regional Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries. Her current condition is unknown.
Chief Broadhead confirmed that the bicyclist was at fault in the crash, as she was riding on the sidewalk, a violation of Georgia law. He explained that, with the exception of children 12 and under in designated areas like bike paths, riding bicycles on sidewalks is illegal in Georgia.
Bicycles are legally classified as vehicles and are therefore subject to the same traffic laws as cars and trucks.
As disturbing as the video is, this crash could have been much worse.
Chief Broadhead stated. He used the incident as an opportunity to educate the public on Georgia’s bicycle laws and promote bicycle safety.
Key takeaways regarding Georgia bicycle law:
- Sidewalk Riding: Riding a bicycle on a sidewalk is illegal in Georgia, except for children 12 and under in areas permitted by local ordinances.
- Bicycles as Vehicles: In Georgia, bicycles are considered vehicles and must adhere to all traffic laws, including obeying traffic signals, signs, and lane markings.
- Roadway Use: Bicyclists generally have the right to use the full lane of travel, especially when lanes are narrow or unsafe to share side-by-side with a motor vehicle.
Safety Recommendations:
Chief Broadhead also urged motorists to be mindful of bicyclists on the road. “Motorists should be respectful of bicycles and treat them as they would any other vehicle on the road,” he said.
This incident serves as a crucial reminder for both cyclists and drivers to prioritize safety and understand the rules of the road. Bicyclists should always ride on the roadway, follow traffic laws, and wear helmets. Drivers should exercise caution and share the road responsibly. By working together, we can make our roads safer for everyone.
