With the official start of summer fast approaching, many people are taking advantage of the many beautiful motorcycle routes Georgia has to offer. However, with the freedom that comes with a motorcycle ride comes the risk of serious injury in an accident.
Motorcyclists are killed at a much higher rate than other motorists, according to the Governors Highway Safety Association. Many link the high fatality rate in motorcycle accidents to helmet use – the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety estimate helmets are about 37% effective at preventing death. In response, Georgia maintains strict rules regarding helmet use.
State requirements for protective gear
Georgia is one of 19 states that require motorcycle riders to wear a helmet. In fact, Georgia’s helmet law is broader than most, stating that “[n]o person shall operate or ride upon a motorcycle unless he or she is wearing protective headgear which complies with standards established by the commissioner of public safety.” Additionally, a rider must either wear eye protection or equip their bike with a windshield.
What helmet laws mean for injured riders
Although many view wearing a helmet as a personal choice, a helmet law like the one here in Georgia can have an impact on someone’s ability to recover from an accident. For example, if a motorist hits a motorcyclist who is not wearing a helmet, they may argue that the person on the motorcycle violated the law. Therefore, their chances of recovering compensation may suffer.
Anyone injured in a motorcycle accident can benefit from the counsel of an attorney experienced in these types of accidents. From going over options to filing a personal injury lawsuit, they can help injured riders move forward.
