Motorcycle riders in Georgia need to understand the state’s helmet laws to stay safe and follow the law. The motorcycle helmet laws in Georgia’s are simple: All motorcycle riders and passengers must always wear helmets when riding. With that in mind, let’s dive into the motorcycle helmet laws in Georgia, how they benefit riders, and how we can help if you have been in a crash while not wearing a helmet.
Required Motorcycle Safety Equipment in Georgia
Sections 40-6-315, 40-6-311, 40-6-314, and 40-6-310 of the Georgia Codes dictate safety requirements for motorcycle riders and passengers. Here’s what you need to know:
- Helmets and Eye Protection—All riders and passengers must wear helmets. If their helmets don’t have a face shield and their motorcycles don’t have windshields, they must wear eye goggles.
- Footwear – State law requires all motorcycle riders to wear “footwear in addition to or other than socks.”
- Passenger Rules – Motorcyclists can carry a passenger only if their motorcycle is built to carry more than one person. Passenger seats must be permanent fixtures on the bike or firmly attached behind the driver’s seat. Passengers must also use footrests.
- Handlebar Height – Handlebars cannot be more than 15 inches above the seat.
- Mirrors and Lights – Motorcycle drivers must follow the same laws relating to vehicle function as drivers of passenger vehicles, including laws relating to headlights and mirrors.
Why You Should Always Wear a Helmet When Riding
Helmets are essential for motorcycle riders and passengers. Proper protective headgear provides crucial protection if you’re in an accident, reducing your risk of severe head injuries and fatalities. The National Safety Council (NSC) estimates that helmets are 37% effective at preventing fatal head injuries for motorcycle operators and 41% effective for passengers.
Besides being a legal requirement in Georgia, wearing a helmet shows that you prioritize your safety and the safety of others on the road.
No matter how safely you drive, other drivers’ behavior may lead to dangerous collisions or even you being thrown from your bike. Always wear a Georgia Department of Transportation-approved helmet to protect yourself and enjoy a safer ride.
What Happens If You Crashed and Weren’t Wearing a Helmet?
You don’t necessarily lose your right to compensation if you were in a crash and not wearing a helmet. Motorcycle Helmet Laws in Georgia require a helmet, but not wearing
one doesn’t bar you from seeking damages after an accident. However, your case may still be affected. Insurance companies in particular could use your lack of a helmet to deem you partially at fault for the accident, thus potentially reducing the amount of compensation you can recover. If someone attempts to shift the blame onto you, consider enlisting the help of an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer.
Law Tigers: America’s Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, having an experienced legal team on your side is crucial. While wearing a helmet is vital for safety, it’s not the only factor in determining fault or compensation. At Law Tigers, we understand the complexities of motorcycle accidents, and even if you weren’t wearing a helmet at the time, you may still be eligible for compensation. Contact us today for a FREE case evaluation or speak with an experienced Atlanta motorcycle lawyer to discuss your options and ensure your rights are protected. We’re here to support riders across the country.
