Modifying and upgrading your automobile can be incredibly satisfying, but it is also important to adhere to Georgia’s various traffic laws. What makes a car “street legal” in Georgia? When do motorists break traffic laws and run the risk of being fined? What are the legal consequences of driving a car that is not street legal? These are all important questions – especially if you are the type of person who loves to modify and upgrade your automobile.
If you are facing significant fines and penalties as a result of illegal modifications made to your car, it might be a good idea to team up with a qualified attorney. Choose a lawyer who has extensive knowledge of Georgia’s traffic laws, and you will have the chance to mitigate, reduce, or eliminate any consequences you might be facing. In many cases, fines can exceed thousands of dollars, making an attorney a smart investment.
Noise Restrictions
- Your sound system cannot be overly loud, especially if it causes a nuisance or damages someone’s ears
- Mufflers are always required, they must extend beyond the rear of the vehicle, and they cannot create excessive or annoying sounds
Violating exhaust noise laws is a misdemeanor, and you will likely have to pay a fine before immediately getting your exhaust system repaired or modified.
Frame and Suspension
- Vehicles cannot be taller than 13’6”
- Suspension lift kits cannot exceed two inches
- Depending on the weight of your car, you must have a maximum frame height between 27 inches and 31 inches
Engine
- Emissions testing is required
- Nitrous oxide is banned
Lighting and Windows
- Using blue lights is a felony
- No tinting on the windshield
- Tint must allow more than 32% of light to pass through
- Using tinting that is more than 20% reflective is a misdemeanor
Illegal Car Modifications Across the United States
- Studded tires in good weather
- A light rig on the roof of a truck
- Radar detectors
- Neon lights
- Plate frames
- Covered license plates
- Radar/laser jammers
- Cold air intake
Is a Golf Cart Street Legal?
Another common question is whether or not a golf cart can be street legal in Georgia. Golf carts typically fall under the category of “motorized car” in the state’s legislature, which means they must follow a few unique rules. Motorized cars weigh less than 1,300 pounds and can travel at a max speed of 20 miles per hour.
Despite this separate classification, golf carts can be deemed street legal under certain circumstances in Georgia. Local governing authorities can designate certain public streets for the use of both motorized carts and regular traffic. Motorized carts can also cross highways without actually traveling on them.
Reach Out to a Qualified Attorney Today
If you are facing fines or other legal consequences as a result of driving a car that is not street legal, you should seek assistance from an attorney as soon as possible. If you have been searching Georgia for a criminal defense lawyer who can help you in this matter, look no further than Lankford & Moore Law. We have a wealth of experience with a range of different traffic offenses, and we would be happy to help.
