As the rapid adoption of personal e scooters and other micro-mobility devices continues across Georgia, state lawmakers are taking a closer look at safety concerns. A proposed helmet law expansion for e scooter riders is currently under review, aiming to increase rider protection amid rising accident rates.
Why Georgia Is Reviewing Helmet Requirements for E Scooters
Georgia has seen a steady increase in the use of electric scooters, particularly in urban centers like Atlanta, where both personal e scooters and shared e scooters (e.g., Lime, Bird) are widely used. With this rise has come a corresponding increase in collisions and hospital visits. According to the CDC, nearly 45% of serious e scooter injuries involve head trauma, and many of those injured were not wearing helmets.
The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) and legislators are responding with proposed changes to electric scooter laws, focusing on:
- Requiring riders of all ages to wear a helmet
- Defining helmet standards for electric bicycles and scooters
- Clarifying liability in accident cases involving helmet use
Currently, only riders under 16 are required to wear helmets on scooters or bikes, leaving adult riders vulnerable and increasing insurance complexity when accidents happen.
How the Law Currently Handles Electric Scooter Use
As of now, Georgia’s e scooter regulations treat scooters like bicycles, allowing them on roads with speed limits under 35 mph and requiring front lights, reflectors, and basic safety features. However, helmet requirements for riders over 16 are non-existent at the state level.
Local rules vary:
- Atlanta prohibits riding e scooters on sidewalks
- Some areas restrict maximum speed to 15 mph for shared e scooters
- Others mandate dismount zones in congested areas
But helmet use remains optional for adults in most jurisdictions.
Reference: Governor’s Office of Highway Safety in Georgia
Why the Helmet Law Expansion Matters
This proposed update could change:
- Insurance coverage in accident claims (those not wearing helmets may be deemed partially responsible for their own injuries)
- The way injury attorneys argue cases for scooter-related head injuries
- Public safety campaigns and manufacturer responsibilities for providing helmets
Similar laws have already passed in other states. For example, California requires helmets for e scooter riders under 18 and imposes fines for non-compliance. A Georgia version could soon follow.
Reference: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration – Micromobility Fact Sheet
What Riders and Providers Should Do Now
Until the proposed legislation passes, riders and micromobility companies should:
- Encourage all riders to wear a helmet, regardless of age
- Post signage or app notifications about safe riding habits
- Monitor updates from Georgia General Assembly
- Stay informed through GDOT or 511 Georgia
Safety today may influence legal outcomes tomorrow. For business owners, understanding electric scooter laws could also impact employee liability or insurance coverage if scooters are used during work commutes.
FAQs on Georgia’s Proposed Helmet Law for Electric Scooters
1. Is helmet use currently required for adult e scooter riders in Georgia?
No. Georgia only requires riders under 16 to wear helmets. The proposed law would extend this requirement to all riders.
2. Do electric scooters and electric bicycles follow the same rules in Georgia?
Generally, yes. Both fall under similar micromobility guidelines, but electric bicycles may have different classifications depending on their motor type and maximum speed.
3. Are shared e scooters more regulated than personal e scooters?
Often, yes. Shared e scooters provided by companies like Bird or Lime must meet specific city regulations including speed limits, designated parking, and in some cities, helmet availability.
4. How will the proposed helmet law expansion affect accident liability?
If the law passes, failing to wear a helmet could be used to reduce injury compensation in legal claims involving e scooters.
5. Where can I find local rules for e scooter use in my Georgia city?
Check your city’s official website or traffic safety page, or use the 511 Georgia tool for alerts, closures, and updates related to micromobility.
Stay Updated: Follow Scholle Law’s legal blog for continuing updates as this law moves through the 2026 Georgia legislative session.
Want to know how this might affect your liability after a scooter crash? Contact our team for a free case consultation.