Until the mid 1970s, almost every state required motorcyclists to wear helmets.  Then, when the federal government changed course and no longer tied federal funds to the existence of such a law, many states changed their laws and no longer required all motorcycle riders to wear helmets.*

Currently, only 20 states and the District of Columbia have laws requiring all motorcyclists to wear helmets.  Georgia is one of those states.

Georgia Motorcycle Helmet Law

The Georgia Motorcycle Helmet Law is clear.  Every person who operates or rides on a motorcycle must wear protective headgear that meets the minimum standards set by the Georgia Department of Public Safety.*

According to the Georgia Department of Driver Services
  • 20% of motorcycle crashes result in head or neck injuries.
  • Head and neck injuries account for the most serious and fatal motorcycle injuries.
  • The likelihood of motorcycle accident head and neck injuries is greatly reduced when the motorcyclist is wearing a helmet.

How to Protect Yourself from Serious Injury

Each Atlanta motorcycle accident attorney at The Dover Law Firm has seen the horrific consequences of riding a motorcycle without a helmet.  We understand the objections of many motorcyclists who believe that the decision about whether or not to wear a helmet should be a personal one and not one dictated by the state; however, we encourage all bikers in Georgia to make the personal decision to protect themselves from spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and death.

If you have been in an Atlanta or Alpharetta motorcycle accident or in a crash anywhere in Georgia, we encourage you to contact our experienced Georgia motorcycle accident lawyers at 770.518.1133 or via our online contact form.

*Source: Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Highway Loss Data Institute, Highway Safety Research & Communications, Helmet Use Laws October 2010.

*Source: Motorcycle Operator’s Manual Georgia, Georgia Department of Driver Services