Motorcycle Licensing and Insurance

It's important to make sure that you are properly licensed and trained if you ride a motorcycle in Georgia. State law requires that you have a Class M motorcycle license, which also covers moped and scooter operation. In order to get a Class M license, you must complete a skills test. If you need motorcycle skills training, you can take a course through the Georgia Department of Driver Services. Even if you already know how to drive a motorcycle, a basic motorcycle safety course can be a good way to refresh your skills and make sure you are equipped for the dangers of the road. Georgia law also requires motorcyclists to carry liability insurance for at least $25,000 for bodily injury per person per accident, $50,000 for bodily injury total per accident and $25,000 for property damage.

Helmet Laws in Georgia

Georgia law prevents anyone from operating or riding on a motorcycle without a helmet. Helmet laws stir controversy throughout the United States, but more than 90 percent of states have these laws in place to protect motorcycle riders. Wearing a helmet can prevent partial or total disability due to brain injury and save hundreds of millions of dollars per year in lost wages, productivity, and medical expenses.

Who Is At Fault?

Though safety is key when riding a motorcycle, accidents do happen. If you've been involved in a motorcycle accident in Georgia, the question of fault will likely arise. Georgia is a "proportional comparative fault" state, meaning that injured parties in a motorcycle accident receive compensation for their injuries if they are less than 50 percent responsible for the crash. Determining fault in a Georgia motorcycle accident means considering factors such as driver skill, fatigue, road conditions, weather and intoxication due to drug or alcohol use.

If You Have Been in a Motorcycle Accident

In addition to issues of fault, injured parties in Georgia must be sure to file their claims within the statute of limitations for personal injury (two years) and property damage (four years). Since motorcycle laws and Georgia statutes can be confusing, and determining liability and fault is complicated, you should consult with an experienced Georgia motorcycle accident attorney if you have been in a motorcycle accident.

To have your case evaluated by an experienced Georgia motorcycle accident lawyer, fill out our case evaluation form. There is no cost and no obligation.