Understanding Motorcycle Laws in Georgia

More Bikers are at a disadvantage the moment they hit the road, with nearby cars and trucks presenting a major risk – just a lane away. That is why motorcycle safety practices & motorcycle laws are incredibly important to follow. Helmet use is a simple way to stay safe while riding, and here in Georgia, […]

Published: October 18, 2022

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Bikers are at a disadvantage the moment they hit the road, with nearby cars and trucks presenting a major risk – just a lane away. That is why motorcycle safety practices & motorcycle laws are incredibly important to follow. Helmet use is a simple way to stay safe while riding, and here in Georgia, it is required by law. All riders must wear a helmet every time they operate a motorcycle.

If you have been injured in a wreck, Attorney Mike Hostilo and our motorcycle accident attorneys can help. We’ll handle every aspect of your personal injury case, working hard to recover the damages you are entitled to. You may be eligible for compensation for medical expenses, motorcycle repairs, pain and suffering, punitive damages, and more.

For legal advice, you can count on, schedule your free case review today!

Key Facts About Motorcycle Helmets in Georgia

While this is not the case in all states, all motorcyclists are required to wear a helmet in Georgia. These motorcycle laws apply to passengers as well. Here are some startling statistics about motorcycle accidents here at home:

Motorcyclist deaths have increased in recent years, rising from 139 fatalities in 2017 to 179 in 2020. From 2017 to 2019, fatalities increased by 22%.
There were 3,948 motorcycle crashes statewide, involving 4,269 motorcyclists (2019).
For every 100,000 registered motorcycles, there were 1,941.5 crashes (2019).
42% of motorcycle crashes occurred in the Atlanta area (2019).
The Georgia counties with the highest number of biker fatalities and serious injuries include Fulton, DeKalb, Gwinnett, Cobb, and Bibb (2019).

These statistics prove helmets’ effectiveness in preventing serious injury and death:

Correct helmet use can reduce the risk of fatal injuries by 42% and the risk of head injuries by 69%.
Head and brain injuries are the leading cause of death in motorcycle accidents.
A motorcycle helmet can decrease the length of a hospital stay if you have been injured.
Helmets also provide protection from the elements, like wind and rain. motorcycle riders from inclement weather, wind, and other elements.

Statistics Source: Georgia Department of Driving Services and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

What Other Motorcycle Gear Can Help Keep You Follow Motorcycle Laws?

Helmets are highly effective in preventing head and brain injuries, but it’s important to protect the rest of your body as well. Add this gear to your wardrobe:

Gloves
Jackets
Long pants
Boots
Reflective or light-colored clothing (for night riding)
Tinted visors and/or face shields
Protective eyewear/goggles
Earplugs

Because maximizing visibility is key, equip your motorcycle with front and rear lights/reflectors that can be seen from at least 500 feet away.

Can Wearing a Helmet Help Your Motorcycle Accident Case?

Wearing a helmet will not only help keep you safe but will strengthen your accident claim. Even in states that do not observe a universal helmet law, wearing one will likely help maximize the compensation you receive. Taking every precaution before hitting the road makes it more difficult for the insurance company to shift the blame away from the at-fault driver.

Need legal advice? Schedule your free case review at the Mike Hostilo Law Firm today!

Common Georgia Motorcycle Law Questions

WHAT IS A COMMON TYPE OF MOTORCYCLE CRASH IN GEORGIA?

Studies show that 72% of motorcycle crashes involve a front-end collision. Only 7% of crashes impact the back of the bike.

WHO IS OFTEN TO BLAME FOR A MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT: THE MOTORCYCLIST OR THE AUTOMOBILE DRIVER?

In 41% of fatal accidents involving another vehicle, the motorcyclist was either passing or going straight while the other vehicle made a left turn. In 23% of wrecks, both the other vehicle and the motorcyclist were going straight.

DOES GEORGIA HAVE A LOUD MOTORCYCLE LAW?

Mufflers are required here in Georgia, but there are no maximum sound level restrictions.

DO I HAVE TO WEAR A HELMET TO RIDE A MOTORCYCLE IN GEORGIA?

Yes, helmets are required in the state of Georgia. This law applies to all motorcyclists, regardless of skill level, as well as passengers. Helmets must meet DOT standards as outlined under FMVSS 218. Approved helmets will have a DOT sticker next to the manufacturer labels.

ARE GOGGLES REQUIRED FOR OPERATING A MOTORCYCLE IN GEORGIA?

Yes, protective eyewear is required when operating a motorcycle unless an approved windshield is in place. No protective eyewear is required for enclosed cabs.

HOW MANY PEOPLE CAN RIDE ON THE SAME MOTORCYCLE SEAT IN GEORGIA?

Georgia law states that only one occupant per motorcycle seat is permitted unless the seat is specifically designed for both a driver and passenger. Passengers must have both their own seat and footrest unless they are in an enclosed cab or side-car.

DO I NEED BOTH A LEFT AND RIGHT MIRROR TO OPERATE MY MOTORCYCLE IN GEORGIA?

Motorcyclists must have at least one side mirror in functioning order. However, we recommend having both mirrors in place to make maneuvering safer. Keep in mind that the leading cause of motorcycle accidents is other cars colliding with bikes from the side.

CAN MOTORCYCLES RIDE SIDE-BY-SIDE IN THE SAME LANE IN GEORGIA?

While side-by-side riding is legal, splitting lanes is not. Splitting a lane refers to motorcyclists riding in between lanes of vehicles to bypass traffic.

ARE APE HANGERS LEGAL IN GEORGIA?

Georgia law states that motorcycle handlebars may not exceed 15 inches in height “above that portion of the seat occupied by the operator or with a backrest more commonly known as a sissy bar.” Some ape hangers meet this standard while others don’t so be sure to check yours.

DOES MY MOTORCYCLE HEADLIGHT NEED TO BE ON AT ALL TIMES IN GEORGIA?

If your motorcycle is running, your headlight – and taillight too – must be on. Be sure to check all lights and signals before you ride.

IS THERE A MOTORCYCLE LAW IN REGARD TO MUFFLERS, HOW LOUD IS TOO LOUD?

Loud pipes can alert drivers to your presence, potentially saving lives. While a muffler is required to operate a bike in Georgia, there are no maximum sound level restrictions. That said, please be considerate and keep children’s and elderly people’s hearing in mind.

DO I NEED A SPECIAL LICENSE TO DRIVE A MOTORCYCLE IN GEORGIA?

According to Georgia law, motorcyclists must have a Class M license. This type of special license covers motorcycles, motor-driven cycles, and three-wheeled motorcycles equipped with handlebars for directional control.

Skilled Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Near Me, Choose Mike Hostilo Law Firm!

If you have been hurt in a motorcycle accident, our experienced team can help. We have successfully handled a wide variety of motor vehicle wrecks, including motorcycle accidents, car accidents, and trucking accidents.

First, we’ll establish a trusted attorney-client relationship. Our next step will be filing a personal injury claim with the insurance company. To save you the hassle, we’ll even handle all communication with the insurance company moving forward.

Our Georgia motorcycle accident lawyers are proud to serve drivers throughout Georgia.

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