In this blog post, our Atlanta motorcycle accident attorney explains the key things that riders need to know about motorcycle safety laws in Georgia. Motorcycle accidents have been on the rise in recent years. According to data from the Georgia Department of Driver Services, “motorcyclists are consistently overrepresented in traffic fatalities.” In fact, motorcyclists are ten times more likely to be killed in a crash than other drivers. As a motorcyclist, it is crucial that you know your rights and responsibilities.
Know Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Motorcyclist in Georgia
Georgia has laws in place to help keep the roads as safe as possible for motorcycle riders. Here is an overview of the most important things that all motorcyclists should know about our state’s motorcycle laws:
- You Have the Responsibility to Obtain a License: To lawfully operate a motorcycle in Georgia, a rider should obtain a Class M license. There are knowledge and skills tests for getting a motorcycle license.
- You Have the Responsibility to Wear a Helmet: In Georgia, motorcycle helmets are required for all riders. Motorcycle helmets save lives. Wear your helmet every time.
- You Have the Responsibility to Avoid Lane-Splitting: Motorcycle lane-splitting is prohibited in Georgia. You cannot ride in between lanes to pass other vehicles, even if traffic is very slow.
- You Have the Right to Control a Lane: As a motorcyclist, you have the right to control your own lane. Other drivers are required by law to give you adequate space to operate safely. Motorcycles are not required to stick to the corner of a lane.
- You Have the Right to Hold an At-Fault Party Liable: Georgia is a fault-based motorcycle accident liability jurisdiction. If your motorcycle accident was caused by someone else’s negligence—such as a driver, trucking company, or motorcycle manufacturer—you can hold them liable for the full extent of your injuries. All motorcycle accidents require a comprehensive investigation.
Recovering Compensation After a Motorcycle Accident
Following a motorcycle crash, you need to be able to access financial compensation to pay medical bills, cover lost wages, and support your family. Sadly, insurance companies do not make it easy. At Ponton Law, our Atlanta motorcycle injury attorney works tirelessly to help injured riders maximize their financial recovery. After a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to get compensation for:
- Motorcycle repairs;
- Emergency room care;
- Medical bills;
- Physical therapy;
- Lost wages;
- Loss of earning power;
- Pain and suffering;
- Physical scarring;
- Long-term disability; and
- Wrongful death.
Schedule a Free Consultation With an Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
At Ponton Law, our Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer has the professional expertise that you can count on. If you or someone close to you was hurt in a motorcycle accident in Georgia, we are ready to help you get justice and fair compensation. Contact us today to arrange your free, fully private initial legal consultation. From our Atlanta office, we handle motorcycle accident injury claims all around the surrounding area, including in Fulton County, Cobb County, and DeKalb County.