If you are hoping to take a motorcycle out on any Columbus, GA, road, make sure you are properly licensed. At Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm, our Columbus motorcycle accident lawyers understand the dangers and responsibilities that come with riding. Contact us today at (706) 940-4030 to schedule a free consultation.
Motorcycle licensing requirements in Georgia demand that you have the proper credentials before you attempt to ride. Failing to meet these requirements can lead to a traffic ticket and put you at greater risk of sustaining needless injuries. With over 26 years of combined experience and more than $35 million recovered for clients, our team is here to help you protect your rights after a crash
Whether you are newly licensed or an experienced rider, you have rights if another person crashes into you. Even if you are not properly licensed, you might still be entitled to compensation.
How Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm Can Help After A Motorcycle Accident In Columbus, GA
Georgia is an at-fault motor vehicle state, meaning that those injured in any crash on the road can recover compensation from the person whose carelessness caused their accident. This is good news for motorcyclists, who can sustain catastrophic injuries in wrecks and collisions when motorists might suffer no harm at all.
Our motorcycle accident attorneys in Columbus, Georgia will:
- Investigate the cause of your motorcycle collision to determine who was to blame
- Review and preserve the evidence about your wreck and injuries that you need to prove your case
- File a damages claim with the appropriate insurance company or against the at-fault party directly
- Facilitate the exchange of information necessary to move your claim forward
- Look to resolve your case successfully and quickly
Whether we can settle your case or we must take your claim to trial to protect your interests, our experienced Columbus personal injury lawyers are committed to helping you achieve the results you need.
Contact Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm to schedule a free consultation.
Types Of Motorcycle Licenses In Georgia
Operating a motorcycle in Georgia requires a special license or endorsement. Just because you can legally operate a four-wheeled vehicle, semi truck, or other motor vehicle does not mean you can legally operate a motorcycle, too. Instead, you must have a Class M license, a Class M endorsement, or a Class M student permit to operate a motorcycle in Georgia.
Class M License Or Endorsement
The Class M license is the standard license necessary to legally operate a motorcycle in the state. It can be a standalone license, meaning you do not need to obtain the standard Class C license for driving motor vehicles before getting a Class M license. If you already have a Class C license, obtaining a Class M endorsement on your license allows you to ride a motorcycle.
Generally, to obtain a Class M license or Class M endorsement, you must:
- Be at least 17 years old
- Complete an approved rider’s course if you are under 18
- Pass a vision exam
- Pass a knowledge and skills test or an approved safety course
A motorcycle license is needed in Georgia for any scooter, motorcycle, or similar vehicle with an engine of 51cc or larger. You do not need a motorcycle license if the engine size is 50cc or smaller or if the vehicle is a moped.
Motorcycle Permit
If you are at least 16 years old, you can apply and obtain a Motorcycle Permit (MP). This permit allows you to ride a motorcycle during the daytime as long as you do not carry any passengers with you. With a permit, you can practice safely maneuvering your bike and prepare for the skills-based test. You can also make a reservation to take your skills-based test with a permit.
Motorcycle permits in Georgia are valid for six months from the date of issuance. In addition to being at least 16, you must also pass a vision test, take an approved course if you are under 18, verify your school enrollment if you are under 18, and pass a motorcycle knowledge-based test.
You do not need to have a motorcycle permit before pursuing a Class M license or endorsement.
Contact Our Columbus Motorcycle Accident Lawyers For A Free Consultation
Having a motorcycle license does not guarantee that you will not be hurt in a crash caused by a negligent driver. Likewise, having a license doesn’t protect you from the harm a careless motorcyclist can cause. You have rights if you are injured in these and other types of collisions, and you should speak with a skilled Columbus motorcycle attorney promptly to preserve them.
Contact Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm and request a free, no-obligation case review with our motorcycle accident attorneys. After reviewing your specific situation, we can advise you on the value of your case, the likelihood of success, and how our legal team can help you recover what you deserve.
