State Motorcycle Law

Georgia is a motorcycle-friendly state for many reasons, including the state’s favorable laws. Before going out for a ride in Georgia, it is helpful to be aware of the various rules that regulate and protect riders. Accidents still happen, however, even if a motorcyclist takes all of the required precautions. When this happens, a negligent driver is usually at fault.

Motor vehicle collision lawyer Terrence R. Bethune has been protecting the rights of Atlanta motorcyclists since 1997. If you have been injured in an accident, he can help you seek the compensation that you need to recover.

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Georgia Motorcycle Laws

Georgia is a state that mandates the use of motorcycle helmets. The law, codified at O.C.G.A. § 40-6-315, requires riders to wear a helmet that meets certain standards. Helmets with DOT or Snell certification will comply with Georgia’s law. It also requires riders to use eye protection when using a motorcycle without a windscreen, so keep that in mind before going for a ride.

State law also requires that motorcyclists turn on their headlights while operating their motorcycles, whether at day or at night. If your bike does not have a daytime running light, you should turn on your headlights any time you ride to avoid an intersection collision and ensure compliance with the law. If you were injured in an accident and your headlight was off, you may be found partially responsible for your harm, which could reduce the compensation you can collect from a negligent driver.

The Georgia rules of the road, specifically at O.C.G.A. § 40-6-312, prohibit lane-splitting — a practice where motorcyclists ride between two cars in adjacent lanes — even at stoplights. However, the law does allow for two motorcyclists to share the same lane, sometimes referred to as two-abreast riding.

This law also offers some protection for riders. It prohibits other vehicles from depriving a motorcyclist of the full use of a traffic lane. A person who violates this law, either intentionally or by making a dangerous lane change, may be liable for any injuries caused

Insurance Requirements For Motorcycles in Georgia

Riders are required to carry liability insurance that covers them and their motorcycles. The minimum coverage required for motorcycles is the same as that of other vehicles and codified at O.C.G.A. § 33-7-11(a).

If you were injured in a broadside or other motorcycle wreck, it may be in your best interest to contact an attorney before talking to your insurance company. Many insurers will do everything in their power to deny a claim or minimize payout. An attorney can work for you to try to get the full value of what you deserve.

Discuss Your Atlanta Motorcycle Accident With an Attorney

Compliance with Georgia’s motorcycle laws will help keep you safe and limit your liability in the event of an accident. Knowing the law will also help you protect your rights if they were violated by someone operating another vehicle. If you have been hurt in an Atlanta collision caused by a negligent driver, knowledgeable motorcycle accident attorney Terrence R. Bethune may be able to help you recover and get back on the road. To talk to Mr. Bethune about your accident, call 1-800-INJURED or fill out our online contact form.

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