Alpharetta Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Georgia Motorcycle Laws

Here’s an overview of Georgia motorcycle accident law:

• Helmet and Eye Protection Laws: All motorcyclists and passengers in Georgia are required to wear a DOT-approved helmet. If the motorcycle doesn’t have a windshield, riders must also wear protective eye gear such as goggles or a face shield.
• Impact of Helmet Non-Use on Claims: Not wearing a helmet can reduce the amount of compensation you receive after an accident. Insurance companies and courts may argue that the lack of protective gear contributed to your injuries.
• Lane Splitting is Illegal: Georgia law prohibits lane splitting, which means motorcyclists cannot ride between lanes of stopped or slow-moving traffic. Violating this rule can impact liability and reduce or bar recovery in a personal injury claim.
• Riding Two Abreast is Allowed: Georgia allows two motorcycles to ride side-by-side in a single lane. However, more than two abreast is not permitted.
• Motorcyclists Must Follow Standard Traffic Laws: Riders must obey all general traffic rules, including speed limits, traffic signals, and lane usage. They must also avoid dangerous practices like clinging to other vehicles or weaving through traffic.
• Fault is Determined Using Modified Comparative Negligence: Under Georgia’s modified comparative negligence rule, you can recover damages only if you’re less than 50% at fault. If you’re found 50% or more at fault, you cannot receive compensation. If you are partially responsible for the accident, your compensation will be reduced in proportion to your share of the fault. For example, being 30% at fault would reduce a $100,000 award to $70,000.
• Minimum Insurance Requirements: Georgia requires motorcycle riders to carry minimum liability coverage of $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is optional but highly recommended.