Driving a Motorcycle Recklessly
What do you think of when you hear the word “motorcycle?”
Thrilling?
Dangerous?
Adrenaline?
Death Sentence?
Disruptive?
Joy Ride?
While we don’t speak for all riders, we want to focus on the bad behavior and decisions cyclists can make when driving. There are several riders who are extremely cautious and go to great lengths to ride safely. However, others throw caution to the wind and drive recklessly. Reckless behavior in the state of Georgia includes wheelies, burnouts, racing and other “bad” behavior.
Laying drags is a misdemeanor in the State of Georgia. The law (O.C.G.A § 40-6-251) states:
- No driver of any motor vehicle shall operate the vehicle upon the public streets, highways, public or private driveways, airport runways, or parking lots in such a manner as to create a danger to persons or property by intentionally and unnecessarily causing the vehicle to move in a zigzag or circular course or to gyrate or spin around, except to avoid a collision or injury or damage.
- The offenses described in this Code section shall be sufficiently identified on any traffic ticket, warrant, accusation or indictment when referred to as “laying drags.”
- This Code section does not apply to drivers operating vehicles in or on any raceway, drag strip or similar place customarily and lawfully used for such purposes.
- Any person violating subsection (a) of this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
It is important to note the term “laying drags” only applies to evidence of a vehicle moving in a zigzag pattern to spin around. A straight “burnout” is not considered laying drags – and therefore you can be charged with reckless driving for doing a burnout. In addition to burnouts, if you are caught performing wheelies or stoppies – these may also fall under reckless driving and you will be charged with a misdemeanor.
Driving a motorcycle has its own risks, but adding reckless behavior only creates a greater chance of hurting yourself and others. The above discussion is just a glimpse into some of the repercussions a rider can face when driving recklessly.
For more information on this article, contact Kaine Law.