The motorcycle helmet laws in Savannah, Georgia, aim to protect bikers from sustaining serious injuries in the event of an accident. However, even the most cautious motorcyclist can suffer a crash, and when that happens, whether you were wearing a helmet or not can also impact the risks you face.
At Bowen Painter Injury Lawyers, we protect the rights and interests of motorcyclists hurt in accidents throughout Georgia. Our Savannah motorcycle accident lawyers know you may be facing mounting medical bills and a challenging recovery. That is why we fight tirelessly for the compensation you deserve to move forward.
Take a closer look at the current laws surrounding helmet use in the state and how our seasoned legal team can safeguard your future if you experience an accident. Contact us today at (912) 335-1909.
How Bowen Painter Injury Lawyers Can Help After a Motorcycle Accident in Savannah, GA
You should not have to bear the cost of your medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses alone if another driver’s carelessness caused your motorcycle accident. Many drivers and insurance companies believe that motorcycling is inherently risky and that bikers should assume the risks, including the chance of being severely hurt in a crash.
Like any other road user, though, you have rights as a motorcyclist, including the right to seek compensation when someone else hurts you in a wreck.
Our Savannah personal injury lawyers can help you exercise this right by providing these services:
- Reviewing all accident reports and locating evidence that proves who is at fault
- Scrutinizing your medical records and other documents to learn the true cost of your accident
- Filing a claim for damages on your behalf and demanding that the at-fault party pay what they should
- Pushing back against adjusters’ and attorneys’ efforts to unlawfully and unreasonably limit or minimize your recovery
- Working to negotiate a quick but fair resolution to your case that gives you the compensation you deserve
- Protecting and advocating for your rights in and out of the courtroom
Motorcycle accidents in Savannah, GA, are often avoidable tragedies. While we cannot undo the past, we can help you move forward with confidence and security. Contact us to discuss your case and take charge of your future today.
Georgia Motorcycle Helmet Laws Explained
Each state has the authority to pass its own helmet laws. Therefore, whether you reside in Savannah or are just passing through the area, you must comply with Georgia’s motorcycle helmet law.
Georgia requires all motorcycle riders to wear an approved motorcycle helmet at any time that they are riding on a public road. The law applies equally to operators and passengers and does not depend on the person’s age.
Helmets Must Meet DOT Standards
Georgia’s helmet law specifies that helmets must meet minimum federal performance standards. Approved helmets will display a Department of Transportation (DOT) sticker on them. Any helmet that does not meet DOT standards does not comply with Georgia law and may not offer protection against concussions and head injuries in the event of a crash.
Eye Protection Is Required
In addition to head protection, motorcycle riders and passengers must also wear some type of eye protection. Doing so prevents debris from injuring your eyes while you are on the road. Eye protection can consist of goggles, glasses, or a helmet visor. However, eye protection is not required if the motorcycle is equipped with a windscreen.
Penalties for Violating Georgia’s Helmet Law
Motorcycle riders and passengers who do not follow Georgia’s law can face fines of up to $1,000 per violation. Although less common, a court can also sentence you to a maximum of one year in jail per offense. You can be found guilty of a helmet law violation after a wreck, even if you were not responsible for causing the crash.
If you need to file a claim after an accident, an insurance company may try to offer you less compensation if you were not wearing a helmet at the time. In this way, wearing a helmet helps protect you both as far as your health and your rights.
Contact Our Savannah Motorcycle Accident Attorneys for a Free Consultation
Complying with Georgia’s helmet law and recovering compensation following a motorcycle accident are two independent issues, although they may be related in your case. Because of this potential complexity, hiring a skilled attorney from our team can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.
You deserve to focus on recovering after getting hurt in a motorcycle accident. Let us handle the process for you from start to finish. Contact Bowen Painter Injury Lawyers to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with a Savannah motorcycle accident attorney.