What is the "Three Foot Law"?

Sixteen States have enacted a "Three Foot Law" which requires motorists to give three feet of room to bicyclists when passing. Despite many attempts, Georgia has failed to pass such a law. That didn't stop thousands of bicyclists, yours included, from converging at the Georgia State Capitol building in downtown Atlanta on Tuesday in support of a "Three Foot Law". Georgia ranks 8th in bicycle accident deaths. In the last few years we have seen 12 ~ 15 bicyclists fatally injured by motor vehicles each year. Not a very good statistic considering the minuscule number of miles traveled per year by bicyclists. 

getting ready to ride at the East Lake MARTA station

I rode with several hundred other riders from the East Lake Marta station on Atlanta's east side to downtown. The nice weather brought out the old and young alike. A motorcycle police escort meant we peddled in relative safety for the leisurely five-mile trek into the city center.

Coming into downtown Atlanta on Edgewood Ave

The only time we stopped in traffic was on Edgewood Avenue as the police cleared traffic on Courtland Street so we could cruise the last few blocks unimpeded.

Yours Truly

A festive and well-behaved crowd  gathered on the Capitol steps and we tried hard to make ourselves heard inside the Capitol by shouting "Three Foot Law" over and over again. Numerous dignitaries took to the podium including our new governor, Nathan Deal. I think it is too late for the law to be addressed this session but hopefully, next year, we will have a "Three Foot Law". If not.... we'll be back! Until then, please give us bicyclists an unofficial "Three Foot Break".

One of the many rows of parked bicycles

80-degree temps, sunny skies, and low humidity brought out a record number of bicyclists.