Sandy Springs Traffic Laws for Motorcyclists
Motorcyclists in Sandy Springs are obliged to follow specific rules of the road in order to operate safely. Knowing the Sandy Springs traffic laws for motorcyclists can both reduce risk of a crash and help you understand your legal rights if you are ever injured in a collision.
A well-versed motorcycle accident attorney could explain the following laws in greater detail. They could also help preserve your legal right to recovery if someone’s negligence causes an accident and your resulting injuries.
Motorcycle Traffic Laws in Sandy Springs
Pursuant to Georgia Code § 40-6-310, motorcyclists are given the same privileges and subject to the same obligations as other drivers, with some additional specific requirements which pertain strictly to motorcycle riders. These unique motorcycle traffic laws are outlined below.
Lane Usage
Per O.C.G.A. § 40-6-312, motor vehicle operators should give motorcyclists unimpeded access to driving lanes. The law permits two motorcyclists to ride alongside one another, but a maximum of two riders shall be allowed to occupy one lane.
Further, motorcyclists cannot ride in between other vehicles or lanes, and riders may not try to pass another driver in a single lane. Motorcyclists must also keep their taillights and headlights on whenever they are operating their vehicle on roadways.
Riding Requirements
Pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 40-6-311, motorcyclists are also subject to specific procedures regarding proper riding protocol and transporting passengers. Riders must sit on a motorcycle in straddling position with one leg on each side of the bike. Motorcyclists also must always have both hands on the handlebars while riding.
No passenger should ride in such a way that would hinder safe driving or block the biker’s view. Appropriate footwear is also required for both motorcycle operators and passengers. Finally, motorcycles should only be used to convey the maximum number of passengers the vehicle is intended to transport.
Protective Gear
One of the most important traffic laws all motorcyclists in Sandy Springs need to know is the mandatory helmet requirement. Under O.C.G.A. § 40-6-315, any individual riding on a motorcycle must use a helmet as per the Georgia Department of Public Safety. Motorcycle windshields are also required if riders are not wearing compliant eye gear.
Mandatory Equipment
O.C.G.A. § 40-6-314 outlines some of the compulsory equipment for motorcycles. Bikes used to convey passengers are required to have passenger footrests. Additionally, handlebars may not exceed the seat level or sissy bar by more than 15 inches.
Requirements to File a Lawsuit After a Motorcycle Wreck
It is also important to know the deadline to file an injury lawsuit for injuries resulting from a motorcycle wreck. O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33 states that injured individuals have two years from the date of the collision to file a claim for monetary compensation.
If an injured motorcyclist tries to start a lawsuit after more than two years have passed, the court could reject their claim altogether. It is critical that legal representation be sought as soon as possible in the aftermath of a motorcycle crash to ensure the person’s right to compensation is not lost.
An Attorney Could Help Riders Understand Sandy Springs Traffic Laws for Motorcycle
An accomplished lawyer could help you understand Sandy Springs traffic laws for motorcyclists and discuss what legal remedy may be available if you are injured in a wreck. When another motorist’s negligent driving causes a serious motorcycle accident, they may be held liable for any injuries which result. To learn more about taking decisive legal action after a serious motorcycle collision, arrange your consultation with a Sandy Springs attorney today.
