Riding a motorcycle across the scenic routes of Georgia can be exhilarating, to say the least. But with the freedom and adventure that comes hand-in-hand with riding, so does the responsibility to adhere to safety laws, including wearing a helmet.
The question isn’t just, “Do you have to wear a helmet on a motorcycle in Georgia?” but rather “Why wouldn’t you?” Wearing a helmet is a simple action that has the power to dramatically alter the outcome of any ride, turning what could be a life-threatening injury into a survivable accident.
The Georgia helmet law mandates that all riders, without exception, wear a helmet while operating or riding a motorcycle. This regulation may seem restrictive to some, but it’s a critical measure designed to reduce the risk of head injuries, which are unfortunately all too common and severe in motorcycle accidents.
The helmet law in Georgia is enforced, aiming to lower the rate of accidents and fatalities that occur when helmets are not used. As much as the law is about safety, it’s also about encouraging responsible riding.
What Is the Helmet Law in Georgia?
Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-315) mandates that motorcycle riders must wear helmets and, in certain instances, protective eyewear as well. The state’s helmet law requires every motorcycle rider and passenger, regardless of age or experience, to wear a helmet that meets the safety standards set by the Department of Transportation (DOT).
As outlined in Georgia’s motorcycle regulations, motorcycle helmets must meet the safety standards set by the commissioner of public safety, which aligns with federal guidelines.
Additionally, Georgia law requires riders to wear eye protection when operating a motorcycle without a windshield. The eye protection must also be approved by the commissioner of public safety.
There are a few exceptions to these rules. Riders in enclosed carts, as well as operators of three-wheeled motorcycles used solely for agricultural purposes, are not required to adhere to the helmet and eyewear regulations.
What Is a DOT-Approved Motorcycle Helmet?
Georgia law mandates that all motorcycle riders and passengers must wear a helmet that is approved by the Department of Transportation. Therefore, when buying a motorcycle helmet, it’s essential to remember that not all helmets meet DOT safety standards.
Helmets that do not meet these standards are often referred to as “novelty” helmets and should not be used on the road because they lack the protection provided by DOT-approved helmets.
Helmet manufacturers can self-certify their products, but for a helmet to earn the DOT seal of approval, it must pass various tests, specifically around its resistance to impact and penetration.
DOT helmet criteria include:
- The inner liner must be at least 1 inch thick and made from polystyrene foam
- The helmet must weigh at least 3 pounds
- It should have strong chin straps secured with sturdy rivets
- The helmet must not have attachments that protrude more than 2/10 of an inch beyond the shell
When shopping for a DOT-approved helmet, look out for the DOT sticker—this indicates compliance. DOT-compliant helmets will only be available from reliable sellers. Avoid buying used helmets and always replace your helmet after a crash, even if it didn’t take a direct hit. A crash can cause unseen damage to the helmet, which can compromise its strength.
Penalties for Violating the Helmet Law in Georgia
Not wearing a helmet while riding a motorcycle in Georgia might seem like a minor oversight, but this decision can come with serious consequences. Violating Georgia’s helmet law can result in a misdemeanor charge, which may lead to a fine of up to $1,000. In some cases, it could result in community service and a jail sentence.
Georgia takes motorcycle safety seriously, and the helmet law is enforced for good reason—to protect you and those around you. So, while the penalties might feel inconvenient, they’re a small price to pay compared to the potential consequences of an unprotected ride.
How Helmet Use Can Impact Your Claim
We don’t over-exaggerate when we say that wearing a helmet can make all the difference—not only in protecting your life but also in how your personal injury claim is handled. In Georgia, if you’re in a motorcycle accident and not wearing a helmet, it can dramatically impact the outcome of your case.
When you wear a helmet, you’re perceived as a responsible rider who prioritizes safety. This can positively influence how insurance companies and courts view your case. They often automatically view helmeted riders as cautious and law-abiding, which can help in asserting that you were not liable and that the injuries you sustained are worth compensating. This can do two things: add weight to your case, and potentially lead to an increased compensation amount.
If you weren’t wearing a helmet, the exact opposite is true. The opposition might argue that you contributed to the severity of your injuries. This standpoint is known as modified comparative negligence, and it can significantly affect the outcome of your claim. In such cases, your compensation could be reduced by a percentage equal to your share of fault in the accident.
If you’re unsure about how your helmet use will affect your claim, we’re here to help. We understand how personal and challenging motorcycle accident cases can be. We’re here to support you every step of the way, helping you tackle the complexities of the law and ensure your voice is heard.
Contact an Experienced Athens Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
There’s nothing quite like the sense of freedom and adventure riding a motorcycle offers.
However, before you get on your bike, it’s important to remember your safety. While you may feel invincible on the open road, the reality is that accidents can happen in a blink. A helmet can mean the difference between walking away with minor injuries and facing long-term consequences, or even death.
At Ruppersburg Injury & Accident Attorneys, we’ve helped many riders just like you navigate the complex aftermath of motorcycle accidents. So, we get it—we understand how to manage the challenges of motorcycle accident cases, from dealing with tricky insurance companies to proving fault and showing compliance with safety laws.
We also fully understand the nuances of the Georgia helmet law and how critical it can be to leverage this to protect your rights, secure your rightful compensation, and ultimately, aid your recovery.
Let us help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us at 706.354.1000 for a free consultation.