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QUESTIONS ABOUT GEORGIA MOTORCYCLE LAW


Lone motorbike rider on small road in the countryside, Sweden

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

Helmets are required for all motorcyclists in the state of Georgia. This law applies to both novice and experienced bikers and extends to passengers as well. Motorcycle helmets in Georgia must conform to 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?

Protective eyewear is required when operating a motorcycle in the state of Georgia 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?

One occupant per motorcycle seat is the law in Georgia unless the seat is designed for both a driver and passenger. Side-cars and enclosed cabs can only hold the number of occupants they were designed for as well.

Passengers must have both their own seat and a dedicated 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?

At least one side mirror must be in functioning order for your bike to be street-legal in Georgia. However, it is advisable to have both mirrors in place and to use both when changing lanes or maneuvering through traffic.

Remember, the number one cause of motorcycle accidents is other cars sliding into bikes from the side. Using side mirrors can help prevent these accidents.

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

Side-by-side riding is legal in Georgia. Splitting lanes, however, is not. Splitting a lane occurs when a motorcyclist rides in between lanes to bypass traffic.

ARE APE HANGERS LEGAL IN GEORGIA?

Georgia Code, 40-6-314 (b) holds that motorcycle handlebars shall 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 that is designed in such a way as to create a sharp point at its apex.” Some ape hangers come in under this, some above. So long as your handlebars fall within the limit, they are legal in Georgia.

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

If your motorcycle is on, the headlight needs to be on as well. Headlights must be used during all times the bike is in operation. So too must tail lights and blinkers be in working order. The best bet is checking all lights and signals before you operate your bike.

AS REGARDS MUFFLERS, HOW LOUD IS TOO LOUD?

Loud pipes save lives by increasing awareness of motorcycles on the road. While a muffler is required to operate a bike in Georgia, there are no maximum sound level restrictions. With that in mind, do be courteous when driving to preserve the hearing of children and the elderly and drive appropriately for your surroundings.

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

Georgia Code, 40-5-23 (c) holds that anyone operating a motorcycle in Georgia must have a Class M license. Class M licenses cover Motorcycles, motor-driven cycles, and three-wheeled motorcycles equipped with handlebars for directional control.

DO I NEED AN ATTORNEY FOR A MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT IN GEORGIA?

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident in Georgia, it is a good idea to talk to an attorney who can assess your case to determine if you have cause to file suit. Insurance settlements are often insufficient, making legal action an attractive option to many victims of serious injury.

If your motorcycle accident was not your fault, you may be entitled to significant compensation. The best way to find out is through a free consultation with a qualified motorcycle accident lawyer.

If you live in or around Atlanta, call Lourie, Chance, Forlines, Carter & King at 404-760-7400 to schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our motorcycle accident attorneys. We welcome victims of personal injury from Columbus, Decatur, Savannah, and all surrounding areas of Georgia.