If you are a motorcyclist in Atlanta, it is a must for you to be aware of all the laws that govern the operation of motorcycles in the state of Georgia to ensure that you are not putting yourself at risk of an accident.
Georgia is one of several states in the country that have helmet laws in place. It is mandatory to wear helmets when you are riding a motorcycle here, regardless of your age or experience level. Whether you are an amateur or an experienced motorcyclist, you must be helmeted while operating a motorcycle. The only exception to the rule may be persons operating motorcycles that are used for agricultural purposes, or those operating motorized carts, or enclosed two-wheel vehicles.
There are reasons why most states like Georgia have chosen to make helmets mandatory. A recent study in Michigan found that after the state repealed its motorcycle helmet laws, the number of motorcyclists whose organs were donated increased three-fold. In fact, hospital trauma centers have a name for motorcycles whose riders don’t wear helmets – “donorcycles.” That grim term clearly indicates the high risk that you have of becoming a fatal accident victim and organ donor when you ride a motorcycle without a helmet and suffer fatal traumatic brain injuries.
A helmet is not the only thing that can protect you from serious injuries in the event of an accident. Wearing eye protection devices is also a critical part of being safe while you are on a motorcycle. Georgia laws require all motorcyclists to wear an eye protection device. The only exception is when your motorcycle comes with a windshield that protects your eyes. Even though the law does not make it mandatory to wear eye protection devices, it is highly recommended that you wear solid eye protection that protects your eyes from damage from shattering glass during an accident.
Georgia laws also state that you cannot take passengers on your motorcycle when it’s designed for one rider only. Motorcycles designed to carry a passenger come with a footrest. If your motorcycle is only designed for a solo rider, then you should not be squeezing in a passenger on your motorcycle.
In addition to these laws, Georgia requires that you have a mandatory Class M license or Class M Instructional Permit to legally operate a motorcycle. You can get a waiver for the motorcycle license requirement if you take a motorcycle safety program. If you have not taken a course and wish to apply for a license directly, you must pass a knowledge test as well as a skills test. Getting some type of professional training is always highly recommended for novice motorcyclists.
If you or a loved one have been injured in a motorcycle accident, talk to an experienced Atlanta motorcycle accident attorney at the Katz Personal Injury Lawyers and determine your legal options for a claim for compensation. You may be eligible for damages that include medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering and other damages. Talk to a lawyer at our firm and discuss your case.