When thinking of “automobiles” we tend to associate such word with a car, SUV or minivan. But, motorcycles and mopeds are automobiles as well – they just tend to be ignored. These two forms of transportation are being used daily, yet many riders aren’t following Georgia law when riding their two-wheel vehicles.
Just like a car, SUV and minivan, the laws centered on motorcycles and mopeds are more important than ever before. There has been a steady increase in riders wanting a higher powered engine in both a motorcycle and moped. There’s clearly a need for speed, but riders can sometimes lose sight of the law. Therefore, we’ve put together an overview of some of the governing laws
Georgia Motorcycle Laws
- No person may operate or ride upon a motorcycle unless he or she is wearing protective headgear that complies with standards established by the Commissioner of Public Safety.
- No person may operate or ride upon a motorcycle that is not equipped with a windshield unless he or she is wearing an eye protective device that complies with standards established by the Commissioner of Public Safety.
- Any motorcycle carrying a passenger, other than in a sidecar or enclosed cab, must be equipped with footrests for such passenger.
- Motorcycle handlebars cannot be more than 15 inches in height above that portion of the seat occupied by the operator. Motorcycles cannot be equipped with a backrest more commonly known as a sissy bar that is designed in such a way as to create a sharp point at its apex.
- A person must ride a motorcycle only upon the permanent and regular seat; and the operator must not carry any other person unless the motorcycle is designed to carry more than 1 person.
Georgia Moped Laws
Mopeds are exempt from registration and title requirements.
- Every person operating a moped has all the rights and is subject to all the duties applicable to the driver of any other vehicle except that the operator of a moped is not required to comply with requirements relating to headlights, taillights, windshields, and eye-protective devices.
- No person under 15 years of age may operate a moped or an electric-assisted bicycle upon the public roads and highways. No person may operate a moped upon the public roads and highways of this state unless he or she has in his or her possession a valid driver’s license, instructional permit, or limited permit issued to him or her. All classes of licenses, instructional permits, or limited permits issued are valid for the purposes of operating mopeds upon the public roads and highways of this state. No license or permit is required for the operation of an electric-assisted bicycle.
- No person may operate or ride as a passenger upon a moped unless he or she is wearing protective headgear that complies with standards established by the Commissioner of the Department of Public Safety.
For a free legal consultation, call 404-214-2001
By complying with the Georgia laws governing motorcycles and mopeds, you’re only helping yourself. We have seen too many tragic stories because a rider wasn’t wearing a helmet or they were hit by a negligent driver. Please keep this in mind as you ride your ride. If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident or injured while riding a moped, please contact us immediately for a free consultation.
Call or text 404-214-2001 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
