Fulton County Motorcycle Helmet Laws
Motorcyclists are not legally permitted to ride their bikes without helmets in Fulton County. Although helmets cannot eliminate the risk of serious injury or death in a motorcycle accident, they can drastically reduce the likelihood of both.
In the event of a crash, wearing a helmet can save lives and mitigate the severity of injuries. Before you hop on a bike, it is important to know some relevant statistics and be aware of the applicable Fulton County motorcycle helmet laws. A well-versed motorcycle accident attorney can further help you understand the applicable laws.
Helmet Protection Requirements in Fulton County
The motorcycle helmet laws enforced in Fulton County are aimed at minimizing motorcycle-related injuries and fatalities. Helmets make motorcycle accident fatalities and traumatic brain injuries much less likely.
Not all helmets are created equally, and Georgia law makes clear that not all helmets are acceptable. Only those helmets that have earned United States Department of Transportation (DOT) approval can be worn while driving under Georgia law.
Are There Eyewear Protection Requirements?
Protective eyewear must have official approval. Whether in the form of goggles or a visor that is attached to a helmet, motorcyclist eyewear is acceptable in Georgia only if it is approved by the DOT. An attorney can help determine whether a helmet and eyewear is acceptable under Fulton County motorcycle helmet laws.
What Are the Consequences of Breaking Motorcycle Helmet Laws?
Despite both the law and the clear safety advantage to wearing a helmet, some riders still choose to ride without one. If caught without a legal helmet, a motorcyclist can be hit with fines up to $1,000, forced to perform community services, and possibly serve jail time up to one year.
The consequences could be far worse if the rider is involved in an accident. Not only are riders without helmets more likely to suffer serious injuries, but they may not be able to recover compensation for their losses such as medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. This is true even if someone else caused the accident.
Comparative Negligence Rule
That is because Fulton County courts apply the modified comparative negligence rule, whereby plaintiffs who are deemed 50 percent or more at fault cannot recover any damages. If a helmet could have prevented a motorcyclist’s injuries, then they may be considered more than 50 percent at fault and thereby unable to recover compensation. A knowledgeable attorney can further explain how helmet laws can impact findings of negligence.
Learn More About Fulton County Motorcycle Helmet Laws
Motorcycle helmet laws are designed to protect bikers on the road. In the event of an accident, a helmet that meets the applicable guidelines can prevent serious, if not fatal, injuries.
Accidents can happen anywhere and anytime, so it is important to play it safe and follow the Fulton County motorcycle helmet laws that are designed to protect you. But in the event that you are involved in a motorcycle crash, be sure to reach out to a Fulton County motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible to learn about your rights. Call today for a free consultation to learn more.
