OCGA Chapter 40, Criminal Code of Georgia

40-1

40-2

40-3

40-4

40-5

40-6

40-7

40-8

40-9

40-10

40-11

40-12

40-13

40-14

40-15

40-16

 

Index

40-8-1 40-8-2 40-8-3 40-8-4 40-8-5 40-8-6
40-8-6.1 40-8-7 40-8-8 40-8-9 40-8-10 40-8-20
40-8-21 40-8-22 40-8-23 40-8-24 40-8-25 40-8-26
40-8-27 40-8-28 40-8-29 40-8-30 40-8-31 40-8-32
40-8-33 40-8-34 40-8-35 40-8-50 40-8-51 40-8-52
40-8-53 40-8-54 40-8-70 40-8-71 40-8-72 40-8-73
40-8-73.1 40-8-74 40-8-75 40-8-76 40-8-76.1 40-8-77
40-8-78 40-8-79 40-8-90 40-8-91 40-8-92 40-8-93
40-8-94 40-8-95 40-8-96 40-8-110 40-8-111 40-8-112
40-8-113 40-8-114 40-8-115 40-8-116 40-8-130 40-8-131
40-8-180 40-8-181 40-8-182 40-8-183 40-8-184 40-8-185
40-8-200 40-8-201 40-8-220 40-8-221    
40-8

40-8-1. [ Index ]
(a) This article shall not apply to implements of husbandry, road machinery, road rollers, farm tractors, or three-wheeled motorcycles used only for agricultural purposes, except when expressly made applicable. This article shall not apply to motorized carts.
(b) Nothing in this article shall be construed to prohibit the use of additional parts and accessories on any vehicle, which use is not inconsistent with the provisions of this article.

40-8-2.
[ Index ]
In addition to the requirements of this article, the commissioner of motor vehicle safety, as to the motor vehicles within the jurisdiction of the Department of Motor Vehicle Safety, shall have the authority to promulgate rules designed to promote safety pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 16 of this title and Chapter 7 of Title 46. Any such rules promulgated or deemed necessary by the commissioner shall include the following: every motor unit and all parts thereof shall be maintained in a safe condition at all times. The lights, brakes, and equipment shall meet such safety requirements as the commissioner shall promulgate from time to time.

40-8-3.
[ Index ]
No vehicle or load any portion of which drags or slides on the surface of the roadway shall be used or transported on the highways. No vehicle shall be used or transported on the highways the wheels of which, while being used or transported, either from construction or otherwise, cause pounding on the road surface.

40-8-4.
[ Index ]
(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to operate upon the public roads of this state any slow-moving vehicle or equipment, any farm trailer or semitrailer which is used for agricultural purposes and which would otherwise be exempt from this article as an implement of husbandry under Code Section 40-8-1, any animal drawn vehicle, or any machinery designed for use and generally operated at speeds less than 25 miles per hour, including all road construction or maintenance equipment and machinery except when engaged in actual construction or maintenance procedures and all other construction equipment and machinery, unless there is displayed on the rear thereof an emblem which shall comply with subsection (b) of this Code section. It shall also be unlawful to operate upon the public roads of this state without such an emblem any three-wheeled motorcycle used only for agricultural purposes unless such three-wheeled motorcycle is licensed as required by Chapter 2 of this title and is in compliance with all other requirements of this chapter.
(b) The emblem required by subsection (a) of this Code section shall conform with those standards and specifications adopted for slow-moving vehicles by the American Society of Agricultural Engineers in December, 1966, and contained within such society´s standard ASAE S276.1, or shall be an emblem of the same shape and size painted on such vehicle in a bright and conspicuous retroreflective red orange paint. Such emblem shall be mounted on the rear of such vehicles, in the approximate horizontal geometric center of the vehicle, at a height of three to five feet above the roadway, and shall be maintained at all times in a clean and reflective condition.
(c) Any person violating this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
(d) Nothing in this Code section shall apply to any self-propelled, two-wheeled vehicle.

40-8-5.
[ Index ]
(a) It shall be unlawful for any person knowingly to tamper with, adjust, alter, change, set back, disconnect, or fail to connect an odometer of a motor vehicle, or to cause any of the foregoing to occur to an odometer of a motor vehicle, so as to reflect a lower mileage than the motor vehicle has actually been driven, except as provided in this Code section.
(b) It shall be unlawful for any person knowingly to bring into this state a motor vehicle which reflects a lower mileage than the motor vehicle actually has been driven due to any illegal acts outlined in subsection (a) of this Code section.
(c) It shall be unlawful for any person knowingly to sell or attempt to sell a motor vehicle which reflects a lower mileage than the motor vehicle actually has been driven due to any illegal acts outlined in subsection (a) of this Code section.
(d) Subsections (a), (b), and (c) of this Code section shall not apply to the disconnection of the odometer used for registering the mileage or use of new motor vehicles being tested by the manufacturer prior to delivery to a franchised dealer.
(e) It shall be unlawful for any person to advertise for sale, to sell, to use, to install, or to have installed any device which causes an odometer to register any mileage other than the actual mileage driven. For the purposes of this subsection, the actual mileage driven is that mileage driven by the vehicle as registered by the odometer within the manufacturer´s designed tolerance.
(f) It shall be unlawful for any person to conspire with any other person to violate this Code section.
(g)(1) In addition to any other penalty provided by law, any person who, with intent to defraud, violates this Code section shall be liable in an amount equal to the sum of:
(A) Three times the amount of actual damages sustained or $1,500.00, whichever is greater; and
(B) In the case of any successful action to enforce the foregoing liability, the costs of the action, together with reasonable attorney´s fees, as determined by the court.
(2) Any action to enforce any liability created under this subsection may be brought in any superior court or state court having proper jurisdiction, within two years from the date on which the liability arises.
(h)(1) If any person violates any provision of this Code section, the Attorney General, any district attorney in this state, or any solicitor-general in this state may bring an action in any superior court or state court having jurisdiction to restrain such violation.
(2) Any action arising under paragraph (1) of this subsection may be brought within two years from the date of the violation.
(i) Any person violating this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

40-8-6.
[ Index ]
(a) It shall be unlawful to alter the suspension system of any private passenger motor vehicle which may be operated on any public street or highway more than two inches above or below the factory recommendation for any such vehicle.
(b) It shall be unlawful to operate any private passenger motor vehicle upon any highway, roadway, or street if the suspension system of such vehicle has been altered more than two inches above or below the factory recommendation for such vehicle.
(c) It shall be unlawful to operate any motor vehicle upon any highway, roadway, or street if the springs relative to the suspension system are broken.
(d) Any person violating this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

40-8-6.1.
(a) As used in this Code section, the term:
(1) 'Frame' means the main longitudinal structural members of the chassis of a truck.
(2) 'Frame height' means the vertical distance between a level surface and the lowest point on the frame of a truck, measured when the truck is upon such level surface without a load.
(3) 'Gross vehicle weight rating' means the manufacturer´s gross vehicle weight rating whether or not the vehicle is modified by use of parts not originally installed by the manufacturer.
(b) It shall be unlawful to alter the suspension system of any truck with a gross vehicle weight rating of 4,500 pounds or less, which may be operated on any public street or highway, so as to exceed 27 inches as measured from the surface of the street to the lowest point on the frame of the truck.
(c) It shall be unlawful to alter the suspension system of any truck with a gross vehicle weight rating of not less than 4,501 pounds and not more than 7,500 pounds, which may be operated on any public street or highway, so as to exceed 30 inches as measured from the surface of the street to the lowest point on the frame of the truck.
(d) It shall be unlawful to alter the suspension system of any truck with a gross vehicle weight rating of not less than 7,501 pounds and not more than 14,000 pounds, which may be operated on any public street or highway, so as to exceed 31 inches as measured from the surface of the street to the lowest point on the frame of the truck.
(e) It shall be unlawful to operate any truck upon any highway, roadway, or street if the suspension system has been altered in excess of the limitations provided for in this Code section.
(f) Any person violating this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

40-8-7.
[ Index ]
(a) No person shall drive or move on any highway any motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer, or any combination thereof, unless the equipment upon any and every such vehicle is in good working order and adjustment as required in this chapter and the vehicle is in such safe mechanical condition as not to endanger the driver or other occupant or any person upon the highway.
(b) It is a misdemeanor for any person to drive or move, or for the owner to cause or knowingly permit to be driven or moved, on any street or highway any vehicle or combination of vehicles:
(1) Which is in such unsafe condition as to endanger any person;
(2) Which does not contain those parts or is not at all times equipped with such lights and other equipment in proper condition and adjustment as required in this chapter; or
(3) Which is equipped in any manner in violation of this chapter.
(c) It is also a misdemeanor for any person to do any act forbidden or fail to perform any act required under this chapter.
(d) Any vehicle suspected of being operated in violation of this article may be the subject of an inspection conducted by any law enforcement officer who has reason to believe such violation is occurring, without the necessity of obtaining a warrant to permit such inspection.

40-8-8.
[ Index ]
Every motor vehicle operated upon a public street or highway shall be equipped with a speedometer in good working order.

40-8-9.
[ Index ]
It shall be unlawful to operate in this state any truck or truck tractor having a gross weight of 43,000 or more pounds which does not comply with Chapter 7 of Title 46 or the United States Department of Transportation.

40-8-10.
[ Index ]
(a) It shall be unlawful for any person on a public road to drive a passenger car, excluding a motor home, which supplies the motor vehicle´s combustion engine with nitrous oxide unless the system supplying nitrous oxide is made inoperative by disconnecting the line feeding nitrous oxide to the engine or by removing the container or containers of nitrous oxide from the vehicle.
(b) Any person who violates subsection (a) of this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

40-8-20.
[ Index ]
Every vehicle upon a highway within this state at any time from a half-hour after sunset to a half-hour before sunrise and at any time when it is raining in the driving zone and at any other time when there is not sufficient visibility to render clearly discernible persons and vehicles on the highway at a distance of 500 feet ahead shall display lights, including headlights, and illuminating devices as required in this part for different classes of vehicles, subject to exceptions with respect to parked vehicles as stated in this part.

40-8-21.
[ Index ]
(a) Whenever this article declares the required distance from which certain lights and devices shall render objects visible or within which such lights or devices shall be visible, such provisions shall apply during the times stated in Code Section 40-8-20 in respect to a vehicle without load when upon a straight, level, unlighted highway under normal atmospheric conditions, unless a different time or condition is expressly stated.
(b) Except as provided in subsection (c) of this Code section, whenever this article declares the required mounted height of lights or devices, it shall mean the distance from the center of such light or device to the level ground upon which the vehicle stands when such vehicle is without a load.
(c)(1) As used in this subsection, the term 'wrecker' means any vehicle designed to tow other vehicles.
(2) Except as provided in paragraph (3) of this subsection, the taillights required by Code Section 40-8-23, the brake lights required by Code Section 40-8-26, and the rear turn signal devices required by Code Section 40-8-26 shall be permanently mounted on a wrecker so as to be visible above any vehicle being towed by such wrecker by the drivers of vehicles following such wrecker.
(3) If a wrecker is not permanently equipped with lights as required by paragraph (2) of this subsection, then whenever a wrecker is towing another vehicle temporary taillights, brake lights, and rear turn signals which function so as to signal the actions of the wrecker shall be attached to the vehicle being towed so as to be visible by the drivers of vehicles following such wrecker.

40-8-22.
[ Index ]
(a) Every motor vehicle other than a motorcycle or motor driven cycle shall be equipped with at least two but not more than four headlights, with at least one on each side of the front of the motor vehicle, which headlights shall comply with the requirements and limitations set forth in this article.
(b) Every motorcycle and every motor driven cycle shall be equipped with at least one and not more than two headlights, which shall comply with the requirements and limitations of this article.
(c) Every headlight upon every motor vehicle, including every motorcycle and motor driven cycle, shall be located at a height measured from the center of the headlight of not more than 54 inches nor less than 24 inches, to be measured as set forth in subsection (b) of Code Section 40-8-21.
(d) The headlights required by this Code section shall be maintained in proper working condition and shall not be covered by any type of material, provided that the covering restriction shall not apply to any vehicle on which the original factory headlights were covered.
(e) It shall be unlawful to operate a motor vehicle unless such motor vehicle is equipped with aiming pads on each headlight.

40-8-23.
[ Index ]
(a) Every motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, and pole trailer manufactured prior to January 1, 1954, shall be equipped with at least one taillight mounted on the rear, which when lighted as required in this article shall emit a red light plainly visible from a distance of 500 feet to the rear.
(b) Every motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, and pole trailer manufactured after January 1, 1954, shall be equipped with two taillights which meet the specifications provided in this Code section.
(c) Every taillight upon every vehicle shall be located at a height of not more than 60 inches nor less than 20 inches, to be measured as set forth in subsection (b) of Code Section 40-8-21.
(d) Either a taillight or a separate light shall be so constructed and placed as to illuminate with a white light the rear registration plate and render it clearly legible from a distance of 50 feet to the rear. Any taillight or taillights, together with any separate light for illuminating the rear registration plate, shall be so wired as to be lighted whenever the headlights or auxiliary driving lights are lighted.
(e) All lenses on taillights shall be maintained in good repair and shall meet manufacturers´ specifications.

40-8-24.
[ Index ]
(a) Every motor vehicle manufactured after March 12, 1954, and operated upon a highway, other than a truck tractor, motorcycle, or motor driven cycle, shall carry on the rear, either as a part of the taillights or separately, two red reflectors, and every motorcycle and every motor driven cycle shall carry on the rear at least one red reflector, meeting the requirements of this Code section.
(b) Every such reflector shall be mounted on the vehicle at a height not less than 20 inches nor more than 60 inches measured as set forth in subsection (b) of Code Section 40-8-21 and shall be of such size and characteristics and so mounted as to be visible at night from all distances within 300 feet to 50 feet from the rear of such vehicle except that visibility from the greater distance is hereinafter required of reflectors on certain types of vehicles.
(c) When operated, towed, or parked upon a highway, roadway, or street at any time, every trailer and semitrailer which would otherwise be exempt from this article as an implement of husbandry under Code Section 40-8-1 shall carry on the rear, either as a part of the taillights or separately, two red reflectors and shall carry on the front two red reflectors. The reflectors carried on the rear shall meet the requirements of subsection (b) of this Code section. The reflectors carried on the front of such trailer or semitrailer shall be mounted thereon at a height of not less than 20 inches nor more than 60 inches measured as set forth in subsection (b) of Code Section 40-8-21 and shall be of such size and characteristics and so mounted as to be visible at night from all distances within 300 feet to 50 feet from the front of such trailer or semitrailer.

40-8-25.
[ Index ]
(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to sell any motor vehicle manufactured after January 1, 1954, including any motorcycle or motor driven cycle manufactured after January 1, 1954, in this state or for any person to drive such vehicle on the highways unless it is equipped with at least one brake light meeting the requirements of Code Section 40-8-26.
(b) If a motor vehicle is manufactured with two brake lights, both must be operational.
(c) No person shall sell or offer for sale or operate on the highways any motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer registered in this state and manufactured or assembled after January 1, 1954, unless it is equipped with mechanical or electrical turn signals meeting the requirements of Code Section 40-8-26. This subsection shall not apply to any motorcycle or motor driven cycle manufactured prior to January 1, 1972.

40-8-26.
[ Index ]
(a) Any motor vehicle may be equipped and when required under this article shall be equipped with the following signal lights or devices:
(1) A brake light on the rear which shall emit a red light and which shall be actuated upon application of the service (foot) brake and which may but need not be incorporated with a taillight; and
(2) A light or lights or mechanical signal device capable of clearly indicating any intention to turn either to the right or to the left and which shall be visible from both the front and the rear.
(b) Every brake light shall be plainly visible and understandable from a distance of 300 feet to the rear both during normal sunlight and at nighttime, and every signal light or lights indicating intention to turn shall be visible and understandable during daytime and nighttime from a distance of 300 feet from both the front and the rear. When a vehicle is equipped with a brake light or other signal lights, such light or lights shall at all times be maintained in good working condition. No brake light or signal light shall project a glaring or dazzling light.
(c) All mechanical signal devices shall be self-illuminated when in use at the times mentioned in Code Section 40-8-20.
(d) All lenses on brake lights and signal devices shall be maintained in good repair and shall meet manufacturers´ specifications.

40-8-27.
[ Index ]
(a) Except as provided in subsection (b) of this Code section, whenever the load upon any vehicle extends to the rear four feet or more beyond the bed or body of such vehicle, there shall be displayed at the extreme rear end of the load, at the times specified in Code Section 40-8-20, a red light plainly visible from a distance of at least 500 feet to the sides and rear. The red light required under this Code section shall be in addition to the red rear light required upon every vehicle. At any other time there shall be displayed at the extreme rear end of such load a flag as described in subsection (c) of this Code section not less than 12 inches square and so hung that the entire area is visible to the driver of a vehicle approaching from the rear.
(b) Any motor vehicle or trailer transporting a load of logs, long pulpwood, poles, or posts which extend more than four feet beyond the rear of the body or bed of such vehicle shall have securely affixed as close as practical to the end of any such projection one amber strobe type lamp equipped with a multidirectional type lens so mounted as to be visible from the rear and both sides of the projecting load. If the mounting of one strobe lamp cannot be accomplished so that it is visible from the rear and both sides of the projecting load, multiple strobe lights shall be utilized so as to meet the visibility requirements of this subsection. The strobe lamp shall flash at a rate of at least 60 flashes per minute and shall be plainly visible from a distance of at least 500 feet to the rear and sides of the projecting load any time of the day or night. The lamp shall be operating at any time of the day or night when the vehicle is operated on any highway or parked on the shoulder or immediately adjacent to the traveled portion of any public roadway. The projecting load shall also be marked with a flag as described in subsection (c) of this Code section. An emergency light permit as provided for in Code Section 40-8-92 is not required on a vehicle utilizing an amber strobe light to comply with the provisions of this Code section.
(c) The flag as required by subsection (a) or (b) of this Code section shall be of a bright red or orange color not less than 12 inches square which is clearly visible and shall be displayed in such a manner that the entire area of the flag is visible from the rear of the vehicle.

40-8-28.
[ Index ]
(a) When a vehicle is lawfully parked upon a street or highway during the hours between a half-hour after sunset and a half-hour before sunrise, and there is sufficient light to reveal any person or object within a distance of 500 feet upon such street or highway, no lights need be displayed upon such parked vehicle.
(b) When a vehicle is parked or stopped upon a roadway or shoulder adjacent thereto, whether attended or unattended, during the hours between a half-hour after sunset and a half-hour before sunrise and there is not sufficient light to reveal any person or object within a distance of 500 feet upon such highway, such vehicle so parked or stopped shall be equipped with one or more lights meeting the following requirements: at least one light shall display a white or amber light visible from a distance of 500 feet to the front of the vehicle, and the same light or at least one other light shall display a red light visible from a distance of 500 feet to the rear of the vehicle; and the location of such light or lights shall always be such that at least one light or combination of lights meeting the requirements of this Code section is installed as near as practicable to the side of the vehicle which is closest to passing traffic. This subsection shall not apply to a motor driven cycle.
(c) If a vehicle is manufactured with two lights meeting the requirements of subsection (b) of this Code section, both such lights shall be maintained in good working order.
(d) Any lighted headlights upon a parked vehicle shall be depressed or dimmed.

40-8-29.
[ Index ]
(a) Any motor vehicle may be equipped with not to exceed one spotlight, and no lighted spotlight shall be aimed and used upon any approaching vehicle. It shall be unlawful for any person except law enforcement officers and persons licensed under Chapter 38 of Title 43 to operate a spotlight from any moving vehicle on any highway or public roadway.
(b) Any motor vehicle may be equipped with not to exceed two foglights mounted on the front at a height not less than 12 inches nor more than 30 inches above the level surface upon which the vehicle stands and so aimed that when the vehicle is not loaded none of the high intensity portion of the light to the left of the center of the vehicle shall at a distance of 25 feet ahead project higher than a level of four inches below the level of the center of the light from which it comes.
(c) Any motor vehicle may be equipped with not to exceed one auxiliary passing light mounted on the front at a height not less than 24 inches nor more than 42 inches above the level surface upon which the vehicle stands, and every such auxiliary passing light shall meet the requirements and limitations set forth in this article.
(d) Any motor vehicle may be equipped with not to exceed one auxiliary driving light mounted on the front at a height not less than 16 inches nor more than 42 inches above the level surface upon which the vehicle stands, and every such auxiliary driving light shall meet the requirements and limitations set forth in this article.

40-8-30.
[ Index ]
Except as hereinafter provided in this part, the headlights or the auxiliary driving light or the auxiliary passing light or combination thereof on motor vehicles other than motorcycles or motor driven cycles shall be so arranged that the driver may select at will between distributions of light projected to different elevations, and such lights may, in addition, be so arranged that such selection can be made automatically, subject to the following limitations:
(1) There shall be an uppermost distribution of light, or composite beam, so aimed and of such intensity as to reveal persons and vehicles at a distance of at least 350 feet ahead for all conditions of loading;
(2) There shall be a lowermost distribution of light, or composite beam, so aimed and of sufficient intensity to reveal persons and vehicles at a distance of at least 100 feet ahead; and on a straight level road under any condition of loading none of the high intensity portion of the beam shall be directed to strike the eyes of an approaching driver;
(3) Every new motor vehicle other than a motorcycle or a motor driven cycle registered in this state which has multiple-beam road lighting equipment shall be equipped with a beam indicator which shall be lighted whenever the uppermost distribution of light from the headlights is in use and shall not otherwise be lighted. Such indicator shall be so designed and located that when lighted it will be readily visible without glare to the driver of the vehicle so equipped.

40-8-31.
[ Index ]
Whenever a motor vehicle is being operated on a roadway or shoulder adjacent thereto during the times specified in Code Section 40-8-20, the driver shall use a distribution of light, or composite beam, directed high enough and of sufficient intensity to reveal persons and vehicles at a safe distance in advance of the vehicle, subject to the following requirements and limitations:
(1) Whenever a driver of a vehicle approaches an oncoming vehicle within 500 feet, such driver shall use a distribution of light, or composite beam, so aimed that the glaring rays are not projected into the eyes of the oncoming driver. The lowermost distribution of light, or composite beam, specified in paragraph (2) of Code Section 40-8-30 shall be deemed to avoid glare at all times, regardless of road contour and loading; and
(2) Whenever the driver of a vehicle follows another vehicle within 200 feet to the rear, except when engaged in the act of overtaking and passing, such driver shall use a distribution of light permissible under this chapter other than the uppermost distribution of light specified in paragraph (1) of Code Section 40-8-30.

40-8-32.
[ Index ]
Any automobile operated by a rural mail carrier for the purpose of delivering mail shall be authorized to display two amber colored lights so as to warn approaching travelers to decrease their speed because of the danger of colliding with such mail carrier as he stops and starts along the edge of the highway. Such amber lights should be visible under normal atmospheric conditions from a distance of 500 feet to the front of such vehicle.

40-8-33.
[ Index ]
(a) Every farm tractor and every three-wheeled motorcycle used only for agricultural purposes equipped with an electric lighting system shall at all times mentioned in Code Section 40-8-20 display a red taillight and either multiple-beam or single-beam road lighting equipment meeting the requirements of Code Sections 40-8-23 and 40-8-30, respectively.
(b) When operated or towed upon a highway, roadway, or street at any time from a half-hour after sunset to a half-hour before sunrise and at any time when it is raining in the driving zone and at any other time when there is not sufficient visibility to render clearly discernible persons and vehicles on the highway, roadway, or street at a distance of 500 feet to the rear, every trailer and semitrailer which would otherwise be exempt from this article as an implement of husbandry under Code Section 40-8-1 either shall comply with Code Section 40-8-23, relating to taillights, or shall be equipped with an operating red flashing light which is plainly visible from a distance of 500 feet to the rear and which is either permanently or temporarily fixed to the rear of such trailer or semitrailer or shall be accompanied by an escort vehicle which is equipped with one or more operating red or amber flashing lights that are visible from a distance of 500 feet and which shall follow such trailer or semitrailer.
(c) Nothing in this Code section shall be construed to impose a duty on a manufacturer of an implement of husbandry under Code Section 40-8-1 to install an electric lighting system, taillights, or red flashing lights or otherwise equip implements of husbandry to be in compliance with the provisions of this Code section at the time of manufacture or sale; it being the intent of this Code section to place a duty on operators of the equipment only under specified circumstances and conditions, and not on manufacturers.

40-8-34.
[ Index ]
The color in all lighting equipment covered in this title shall be in accordance with Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) Standard J578, April, 1965, as thereafter revised or amended.

40-8-35.
[ Index ]
Any low-speed vehicle operated on the highways of this state shall display an amber strobe light so as to warn approaching travelers to decrease their speed because of the danger of colliding with such vehicle. Such amber strobe light shall be mounted in a manner so as to be visible under normal atmospheric conditions from a distance of 500 feet from the front and rear of such vehicle.

40-8-50.
[ Index ]
(a) As used in this Code section, the term:
(1) 'Gross combination weight rating (GCWR)' means the combined gross vehicle weight ratings of all vehicles in a combination of vehicles.
(2) 'Gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR)' means the value specified by the manufacturer or manufacturers as the maximum loaded weight of a single or a combination (articulated) vehicle, the actual gross weight, or registered gross weight, whichever is greater.
(3) 'Hazardous material' has the meaning provided by Chapter 51 of Title 49 of the United States Code Annotated.
(4) 'Surge brakes' means a system of brakes on a trailer or semitrailer in which the trailer service brakes are activated as a result of the forward pressure of the trailer against the towing vehicle during deceleration.
(b) Every motor vehicle, other than a motorcycle or motor driven cycle, when operated upon a highway shall be equipped with brakes adequate to control the movement of and to stop and hold such vehicle, including two separate means of applying the brakes, each of which means shall be effective to apply the brakes to at least two wheels. If these two separate means of applying the brakes are connected in any way, they shall be so constructed that failure on any one part of the operating mechanism shall not leave the motor vehicle without brakes on at least two wheels.
(c) Every motorcycle and motor driven cycle manufactured after January 1, 1974, when operated upon a highway, shall be equipped with at least two brakes which may be operated by hand or foot.
(d) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (e) of this Code section, every trailer or semitrailer of 3,000 pounds gross weight or more shall be equipped with brakes on all wheels. Any farm trailer with two or more wheels, pulled from a tongue, used in or operated for farm purposes, including transporting fertilizer and agricultural materials to the farm, shall not be required to have an independent braking system thereon, provided such farm trailer shall not weigh over 4,000 pounds when empty.
(e) Any trailer or semitrailer may utilize surge brakes, subject to the following conditions and limitations:
(1) The vehicle or combination of vehicles does not include a vehicle designed or used to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver;
(2) The trailer or semitrailer has a gross vehicle weight rating which does not exceed 12,000 pounds;
(3) The combination of vehicles does not exceed a gross combination weight rating of 26,000 pounds;
(4) The actual gross weight of the trailer or semitrailer and load does not exceed the manufacturer´s gross vehicle weight rating;
(5) The trailer or semitrailer brakes must be designed and connected in such a manner that in case of accidental breakaway of the towed vehicle the brakes shall apply automatically;
(6) The trailer or semitrailer is not used to transport hazardous materials in a type and quantity which requires placarding;
(7) The trailer or semitrailer is not used to transport liquids or gases contained in packaging which exceeds 119 gallons capacity; and
(8) For vehicles used for commercial purposes, the vehicle or combination of vehicles is used only in intrastate commerce and complies in all other respects with licensing, insurance, registration, identification, driver and vehicle safety, and hazardous materials regulations of the Department of Motor Vehicle Safety and United States Department of Transportation applicable to such vehicles or combination of vehicles.

40-8-51.
[ Index ]
(a) One of the means of brake operation shall consist of a mechanical connection from the operating lever to the brake shoes or bands, and this brake shall be capable of holding the vehicle or combination of vehicles stationary under any condition of loading on any upgrade or downgrade upon which it is operated.
(b) The brake shoes operating within or upon the drums on the vehicle wheels of any motor vehicle may be used for both service and hand operation.

40-8-52.
[ Index ]
Every 1966 model motor vehicle and all subsequent model motor vehicles shall be equipped with parking brakes adequate to hold the vehicle on any grade on which it is operated, under all conditions of loading, on a surface free from snow, ice, or loose material. The parking brakes shall be capable of being applied in conformance with the foregoing requirements by the driver´s muscular effort or by spring action or by equivalent means. Their operation may be assisted by the service brakes or other source of power, provided that failure of the service brake actuation system or other power assisting mechanism will not prevent the parking brakes from being applied in conformance with the foregoing requirements. The parking brakes shall be so designed that when once applied they shall remain applied with the required effectiveness despite exhaustion of any source of energy or leakage of any kind. The same brake drums, brake shoes and lining assemblies, brake shoe anchors, and mechanical brake shoe actuation mechanism normally associated with the wheel brake assemblies may be used for both the service brakes and the parking brakes. If the means of applying the parking brakes and the service brakes are connected in any way, they shall be so constructed that failure of any one part shall not leave the vehicle without operative brakes.

40-8-53.
[ Index ]
Every motor vehicle or combination of motor drawn vehicles shall be capable at all times and under all conditions of loading of being stopped on a dry, smooth, level road free from loose material, upon application of the service (foot) brake within the distances specified in this Code section or shall be capable of being decelerated at a sustained rate corresponding to these distances.
Feet to Stop From 20 Miles Per Hour Deceleration in Feet Per Second
Vehicles or combinations of vehicles having brakes on all wheels 30 14
Vehicles or combinations of vehicles not having brakes on all wheels 40 10.7

40-8-54.
[ Index ]
All brakes shall be maintained in good working order and shall be so adjusted as to operate as equally as practicable with respect to the wheels on opposite sides of the vehicle.

40-8-70.
[ Index ]
(a) Every motor vehicle when operated upon a highway shall be equipped with a horn in good working order and capable of emitting sound audible under normal conditions from a distance of not less than 200 feet, but no horn or other warning device shall emit an unreasonably loud or harsh sound or a whistle. The driver of a motor vehicle shall, when it is reasonably necessary to ensure safe operation, give audible warning with his or her horn but shall not otherwise use such horn when upon a highway.
(b) No vehicle shall be equipped with nor shall any person use upon a vehicle any siren, whistle, or bell except as otherwise permitted in this Code section and Code Section 40-8-94.
(c) No vehicle shall be equipped with a theft alarm signal device which is so arranged that it can be used by the driver as an ordinary warning signal.

40-8-71.
[ Index ]
(a) Every motor vehicle shall at all times be equipped with an exhaust system, in good working order and in constant operation, meeting the following specifications:
(1) The exhaust system shall include the piping leading from the flange of the exhaust manifold to and including the muffler or mufflers and tail pipes;
(2) The use of flexible pipe shall be prohibited except on diesel tractors or according to manufacturers´ original specifications;
(3) The exhaust emission point shall extend beyond the rear or outside of the passenger compartment. The trunk shall be considered as part of the passenger compartment;
(4) The exhaust system and its elements shall be securely fastened, including the consideration of missing or broken hangers; and
(5) There shall be no part of the exhaust system passing through the passenger compartment or any exposed stack so located that any individual entering or leaving the vehicle may be burned.
(b) The engine and power mechanism of every motor vehicle shall be so equipped and adjusted as to prevent the escape of excessive fumes or smoke.
(c) It shall be unlawful for any person to sell or offer for sale any muffler which causes excessive or unusual noise or annoying smoke or any muffler cutout, bypass, or similar device for use on a motor vehicle or for any person to use, to sell, or to offer for sale any motor vehicle equipped with any such muffler, muffler cutout, bypass, or similar device. Any person violating this subsection shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

40-8-72.
[ Index ]
Every motor vehicle which is so constructed or loaded as to obstruct the driver´s view to the rear thereof from the driver´s position shall be equipped with a mirror so located as to reflect to the driver a view of the highway for a distance of at least 200 feet to the rear of such vehicle.

40-8-73.
[ Index ]
(a) No person shall drive any motor vehicle with any sign, poster, or other nontransparent material upon the front windshield, side windows, or rear windows of such vehicle which obstructs the driver´s clear view of the highway or any intersecting highway.
(b) The windshield of every motor vehicle shall be equipped with a device for cleaning rain, snow, or other moisture therefrom, which device shall be so constructed as to be controlled or operated by the driver of the vehicle.
(c) Every windshield wiper upon a motor vehicle shall be maintained in good working order.
(d) No opaque or solid material including, but not limited to, cardboard, plastic, and taped glass shall be employed in lieu of a glass windshield or window.
(e) No motor vehicle shall be operated with a windshield or rear window having a starburst or spider webbing effect greater than three inches by three inches.

40-8-73.1.
[ Index ]
(a) As used in this Code section, the term:
(1) 'Light reflectance' means the ratio of the amount of total light that is reflected outward by a product or material to the amount of total light falling on the product or material.
(2) 'Light transmission' means the ratio of the amount of total light, expressed in percentages, which is allowed to pass through a surface to the amount of light falling on the surface.
(3) 'Manufacturer' means a person who produces or assembles a vehicle glass-coating material or who fabricates, laminates, or tempers a safety-glazing material, which material reduces light transmission.
(4) 'Material' means any transparent product or substance which reduces light transmission.
(5) 'Multipurpose passenger vehicle' means a motor vehicle designed to carry ten persons or less which is constructed on a truck chassis or with special features for occasional off-road operation.
(b) Except as provided in this Code section, from and after January 1, 1990, it shall be unlawful for any resident person to operate a motor vehicle in this state:
(1) Which has material and glazing applied or affixed to the front windshield, which material and glazing when so applied or affixed reduce light transmission through the windshield; or
(2) Which has material and glazing applied or affixed to the rear windshield or the side or door windows, which material and glazing when so applied or affixed reduce light transmission through the windshield or window to less than 32 percent or increase light reflectance to more than 20 percent.
(c) The provisions of subsection (b) of this Code section shall not apply to:
(1) Adjustable sun visors which are mounted forward of the side windows and are not attached to the glass;
(2) Signs, stickers, or other matter which is displayed in a seven-inch square in the lower corner of the windshield farthest removed from the driver or signs, stickers, or other matter which is displayed in a five-inch square in the lower corner of the windshield nearest the driver;
(3) Direction, destination, or termination signs upon a passenger common carrier motor vehicle if the signs do not interfere with the driver´s clear view of approaching traffic;
(4) Any transparent item which is not red or amber in color which is placed on the uppermost six inches of the windshield;
(5) Any federal, state, or local sticker or certificate which is required by law to be placed on any windshield or window;
(6) The rear windshield or the side or door windows, except those windows to the right and left of the driver of:
(A) A multipurpose passenger vehicle;
(B) A school bus, any other bus used for public transportation, and any bus or van owned or leased by any religious or any nonprofit organization duly incorporated under the laws of this state;
(C) Any limousine owned or leased by a public or private entity; or
(D) Any other vehicle, the windows or windshields of which have been tinted or darkened before factory delivery or permitted by federal law or regulation;
(7) Any motor vehicle not registered in this state; or
(8) Any law enforcement vehicle.
(d) The Department of Motor Vehicle Safety may, upon application from a person required for medical reasons to be shielded from the direct rays of the sun and only if such application is supported by written attestation of such fact from a person licensed to practice medicine under Chapter 34 of Title 43, issue an exemption from the provisions of this Code section for any motor vehicle owned by such person or in which such person is a habitual passenger. The exemption shall be issued with such conditions and limitations as may be prescribed by the Department of Motor Vehicle Safety.
(e) From and after January 1, 1990, each manufacturer of material designed to be affixed or applied to the windows or windshields of a motor vehicle shall, before shipping such material into this state, apply to the commissioner of public safety for approval and registration of its material and the label for identification and certification of compliance. No material shall be approved by the commissioner unless the manufacturer demonstrates that such material, when applied or affixed to a window, shall not reduce light transmission or increase light reflectance in violation of subsection (b) of this Code section. The manufacturer of any material shipped into this state on or after January 1, 1990, shall provide labels of a size and type approved by the commissioner, written instructions for the placement of such labels, and a notice that the improper installation of material to a window or windshield or the failure to display a label as provided in this subsection is a violation of state law. It shall be unlawful for any person to alter or reproduce any label approved by the commissioner or to knowingly use any approved label except as authorized by this Code section.
(f) From and after January 1, 1990, any motor vehicle which has material and glazing applied or affixed to the windows or rear windshield of such vehicle, which material and glazing have reduced the light transmission through such window or windshield or increased the light reflectance of such window or windshield, shall display a label visible from the outside of such vehicle indicating that such windows and windshield are in compliance with the light transmission and light reflectance requirements as provided in subsection (b) of this Code section. From and after January 1, 1990, no person shall install any material upon the windshields or windows of any motor vehicle, the installation of which would result in a reduction of light transmission or an increase in light reflectance in violation of subsection (b) of this Code section.
(g) The Department of Public Safety is authorized to promulgate such rules and regulations as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Code section.
(h) Any person who violates subsection (b), (e), or (f) of this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

40-8-74.
[ Index ]
(a) No vehicle equipped with solid rubber tires shall be used or transported on the highways, unless every solid rubber tire on such vehicle shall have rubber on its entire traction surface at least one inch thick above the edge of the flange on the entire periphery.
(b) No person shall operate or move on any highway any motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer having any metal tire in contact with the roadway.
(c) No tire on a vehicle moved on a highway shall have on its periphery any block, stud, flange, cleat, or spike or any other protuberance of any material other than rubber which projects beyond the tread of the traction surface of the tire, except that it shall be permissible to use:
(1) Farm machinery with tires having protuberances which will not injure the highway; and
(2) Tire chains of reasonable proportions or tires equipped with safety metal spike studs upon any vehicle when required for safety because of snow, ice, or other conditions tending to cause a vehicle to skid.
(d) The transportation board and local authorities in their respective jurisdictions may in their discretion issue special permits authorizing the operation upon a highway of traction engines or tractors having movable tracks with transverse corrugations upon the periphery of such movable tracks, or of farm tractors or other farm machinery, the operation of which upon a highway would otherwise be prohibited under this Code section.
(e) All tires:
(1) Shall have not less than 2/32 inch tread measurable in all major grooves with the exception of school buses which shall have not less than 4/32 inch tread measurable in all major grooves on the front tires and not less than 2/32 inch tread measurable in all major grooves on the rear tires when there are at least four tires on the rear otherwise the tread on the rear tires shall be not less than 4/32 inch;
(2) Shall be free from any cuts, breaks, or snags on tread and sidewall deep enough to expose body cord; and
(3) Shall be free from bumps, bulges, or separations.
(f) No motor vehicle shall be operated on a public street or highway with tires that have been marked 'not for highway use,' 'for racing purposes only,' or 'unsafe for highway use.'
(g) Retreaded tires shall not be used upon the front wheels of buses.

40-8-75.
[ Index ]
Every bus, truck, full trailer, semitrailer, and pole trailer, with the exception of local haul pulpwood trucks and local haul waste collection dumping trailers, shall be equipped with suitable metal protectors or substantial flexible flaps on the rearmost wheels to prevent, as far as practicable, such wheels from throwing dirt, gravel, rocks, water, or other materials on the windshields of following vehicles. Such protectors or flaps shall have a ground clearance of not more than one-half of the distance from the center of the rearmost axle to the center of the protector or flap under any conditions of loading of the vehicle and shall be at least as wide as the tires they are covering; provided, however, that if any such bus, truck, full trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer is so designed and constructed that the foregoing requirements are accomplished by means of fenders, body construction, or other enclosures, then the protectors or flaps provided for in this Code section shall not be required.

40-8-76.
[ Index ]
(a) No new private passenger automobile manufactured after January 1, 1964, shall be sold to the general public in this state unless such automobile shall be equipped with two sets of safety belts for the front seat thereof. The safety belts may be installed by the manufacturer prior to delivery to the dealer, or they may be installed by the dealer.
(b)(1) On and after July 1, 1984, every driver who transports a child four years of age or younger in a passenger automobile, van, or pickup truck, other than a taxicab as defined by Code Section 33-34-5.1 or a public transit vehicle as defined by Code Section 40-5-20, shall, while such motor vehicle is in motion and operated on a public road, street, or highway of this state, provide for the protection of such child in a child passenger restraining system approved by the United States Department of Transportation under Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213 in effect on January 1, 1983. A driver shall not be deemed to be complying with the provisions of this subsection unless the child passenger restraining system is installed and being used in accordance with the manufacturer´s directions for such system. The provisions of this subsection shall not apply when the child´s parent or guardian obtains a physician´s written statement that a physical or medical condition of the child prevents placing or restraining him or her in any such child passenger restraining system.
(2) Upon a first conviction of an offense under this subsection, the defendant shall be punished by a fine of not more than $50.00. Upon a second or subsequent conviction of an offense under this subsection, the defendant shall be punished by a fine of not more than $100.00. No court shall impose any additional fees or surcharges to a fine for such a violation. The court imposing a fine for any violation of this Code section shall forward a record of the disposition of the cases annually to the Department of Public Safety for the sole purpose of data collection on a county by county basis.
(c) It shall be the duty of the Governor´s Office of Highway Safety to implement and coordinate a program to inform parents and other citizens of Georgia of the reasons for the enactment of subsection (b) of this Code section. Such program shall be carried out prior to January 1, 1997. The Governor´s Office of Highway Safety shall solicit the cooperation and assistance of the Georgia State Patrol, the Georgia Sheriffs Association, the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police, Incorporated, the Peace Officers´ Association of Georgia, the Medical College of Georgia, the Georgia Hospital Association, the Georgia Association of Educators, the Georgia Parent-Teacher Association, and other appropriate organizations in educating the citizens of the state and in implementing, coordinating, and carrying out the program provided for herein.
(d) Violation of this Code section shall not constitute negligence per se nor contributory negligence per se. Violation of child safety restraint requirements shall not be the basis for cancellation of coverage or increase in insurance rates.

40-8-76.1.
[ Index ]
(a) As used in this Code section, the term 'passenger vehicle' means every motor vehicle designed to carry ten passengers or less and used for the transportation of persons but shall not mean pickup trucks, motorcycles, motor driven cycles, or vehicles equipped for off-road use, provided that the term 'passenger vehicle' includes any sport utility vehicle and also includes pickup trucks for any occupant who is under 18 years of age.
(b) Each occupant of the front seat of a passenger vehicle shall, while such passenger vehicle is being operated on a public road, street, or highway of this state, be restrained by a seat safety belt approved under Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 208.
(c) The requirement of subsection (b) of this Code section shall not apply to:
(1) A driver or passenger frequently stopping and leaving the vehicle or delivering property from the vehicle, if the speed of the vehicle between stops does not exceed 15 miles per hour;
(2) A driver or passenger possessing a written statement from a physician that such person is unable, for medical or physical reasons, to wear a seat safety belt;
(3) A driver or passenger possessing an official certificate or license endorsement issued by the appropriate agency in another state or country indicating that the driver is unable for medical, physical, or other valid reasons to wear a seat safety belt;
(4) A driver operating a passenger vehicle in reverse;
(5) A passenger vehicle with a model year prior to 1965;
(6) A passenger vehicle which is not required to be equipped with seat safety belts under federal law;
(7) A passenger vehicle operated by a rural letter carrier of the United States Postal Service while performing duties as a rural letter carrier;
(8) A passenger vehicle from which a person is delivering newspapers; or
(9) A passenger vehicle performing an emergency service.
(d) The failure of an occupant of a motor vehicle to wear a seat safety belt in any seat of a motor vehicle which has a seat safety belt or belts shall not be considered evidence of negligence or causation, shall not otherwise be considered by the finder of fact on any question of liability of any person, corporation, or insurer, shall not be any basis for cancellation of coverage or increase in insurance rates, and shall not be evidence used to diminish any recovery for damages arising out of the ownership, maintenance, occupancy, or operation of a motor vehicle.
(e)(1) Except as otherwise provided in paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection, a person failing to comply with the requirements of subsection (b) of this Code section shall not be guilty of any criminal act and shall not be guilty of violating any ordinance. A violation of this Code section shall not be a moving traffic violation for purposes of Code Section 40-5-57.
(2) A person failing to comply with the requirements of subsection (b) of this Code section shall be guilty of the offense of failure to wear a seat safety belt and, upon conviction thereof, may be fined not more than $15.00; but, the provisions of Chapter 11 of Title 17 and any other provision of law to the contrary notwithstanding, the costs of such prosecution shall not be taxed nor shall any additional penalty, fee, or surcharge to a fine for such offense be assessed against a person for conviction thereof. The court imposing such fine shall forward a record of the disposition of the case of failure to wear a seat safety belt to the Department of Motor Vehicle Safety.
(3) Each minor over four years of age who is an occupant of a passenger vehicle shall, while such passenger vehicle is being operated on a public road, street, or highway of this state, be restrained by a seat safety belt approved under Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 208. In any case where a minor passenger over four years of age fails to comply with the requirements of this paragraph, the driver of the passenger vehicle shall be guilty of the offense of failure to secure a seat safety belt on a minor and, upon conviction thereof, may be fined not more than $25.00. The court imposing such a fine shall forward a record of the court disposition of the case of failure to secure a seat safety belt on a minor to the Department of Motor Vehicle Safety.
(f) Probable cause for violation of this Code section shall be based solely upon a law enforcement officer´s clear and unobstructed view of a person not restrained as required by this Code section. Noncompliance with the restraint requirements of this Code section shall not constitute probable cause for violation of any other Code section.

40-8-77.
[ Index ]
(a) As used in this Code section, the term 'private passenger automobile' shall mean a four-wheel motor vehicle designed for carrying ten passengers or less, not for hire, for use on public roads and highways, and not designed for use as a dwelling or for camping, provided that the term 'private passenger automobile' shall not include a multipurpose vehicle, which is, for the purposes of this Code section, defined as a motor vehicle, except a trailer, designed to carry ten passengers or less and constructed either on a truck chassis or with special features for occasional off-road operation.
(b) Every new private passenger automobile manufactured on and after August 1, 1973, which is sold or licensed in this state shall be sold subject to the manufacturer´s warranty that it is equipped with an appropriate energy absorption system conforming to all federal motor vehicle safety standards applicable to such automobile on the date of manufacture. The warranty may be given by means of the federal safety standard certification label affixed to the automobile.

40-8-78.
[ Index ]
(a) No person shall sell any motor vehicle manufactured after January 1, 1954, nor shall any such motor vehicle be registered unless such vehicle is equipped with safety glazing materials of a type approved by the commissioner of motor vehicle safety wherever glazing materials are used in doors, windows, and windshields. The provisions of this Code section shall apply to all passenger-type motor vehicles, including passenger buses and school buses, but in respect to trucks, including truck tractors, the requirements as to safety glazing materials shall apply to all glazing materials used in doors, windows, and windshields in the drivers´ compartments of such vehicles.
(b) The term 'safety glazing materials' means glazing materials so constructed, treated, or combined with other materials as to reduce substantially, in comparison with ordinary sheet glass or plate glass, the likelihood of injury to persons by objects from exterior sources or by these safety glazing materials when they may be cracked or broken.
(c) Any person engaged in the business of replacing windshields or any side or rear windows of motor vehicles, which are subject to the provisions of this Code section, shall not replace such windshields or side or rear windows with any glazing materials other than safety glazing materials approved by the commissioner.
(d) The commissioner of motor vehicle safety shall compile and publish a list of types of glazing materials by name approved by him or her as meeting the requirements of this Code section and the commissioner shall not register any motor vehicle which is subject to the provisions of this Code section unless it is equipped with an approved type of safety glazing materials, and he or she shall thereafter suspend the registration of any motor vehicle so subject to this Code section which he or she finds is not so equipped until it is made to conform to the requirements of this Code section.
(e) This Code section shall not be construed to require that side or rear windows of motor vehicles which were replaced or installed prior to January 1, 1954, must be replaced with safety glazing materials as provided in this Code section.

40-8-79.
[ Index ]
It shall be unlawful for any person under the age of 18 to ride as a passenger in the uncovered bed of a pickup truck on any interstate highway in this state. The driver of any vehicle in violation of this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

40-8-90.
[ Index ]
(a) Except as provided in subsection (b) of this Code section, it shall be unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to operate any motor vehicle equipped with or containing a device capable of producing flashing or revolving blue lights except motor vehicles owned or leased by any federal, state, or local law enforcement agency.
(b) The prohibition contained in subsection (a) of this Code section shall not apply to any elected sheriff who, pursuant to an agreement between the sheriff and the county governing authority, is using his personal motor vehicle in a law enforcement activity, provided such vehicle is marked as provided in Code Section 40-8-91.
(c) It shall be unlawful for any person to use any motor vehicle equipped with flashing or revolving blue lights in the commission of a felony, and, upon conviction of a violation of this subsection, the punishment shall be a fine of not less than $1,000.00 or imprisonment of not less than one year, or both.

40-8-91.
[ Index ]
(a) Except as provided in subsection (b) of this Code section, any motor vehicle which is used on official business by any person authorized to make arrests for traffic violations in this state, or any municipality or county thereof, shall be distinctly marked on each side and the back with the name of the agency responsible therefor, in letters not less than four inches in height.
(b) Any motor vehicle, except as hereinafter provided in this subsection, used by any employee of the Department of Public Safety for the purpose of enforcing the traffic laws of this state shall be distinctly painted, marked, and equipped in such manner as shall be prescribed by the commissioner of public safety pursuant to this Code section. The commissioner in prescribing the manner in which such vehicles shall be painted, marked, or equipped shall:
(1) Require that all such motor vehicles be painted in a two-toned uniform color. The hood, top, and the top area not to exceed 12 inches below the bottom of the window opening thereof shall be a light gray color and the remaining portion of said motor vehicle shall be painted a dark blue color;
(2) Require that any such motor vehicle be equipped with at least one lamp which when lighted shall display a flashing or revolving colored light visible under normal atmospheric conditions for a distance of 500 feet from the front and rear of such vehicle; and
(3) Require that any such motor vehicle shall be distinctly marked on each side and the back thereof with the wording 'State Patrol' in letters not less than six inches in height of a contrasting color from the background color of the motor vehicle.
Notwithstanding the above provisions, it shall be permissible for the commissioner to allow not more than two motor vehicles per State Patrol post to be employed in traffic law enforcement which are painted any solid color designated by the commissioner and marked with 'State Patrol' in six inch high letters of a contrasting color.
(c) It shall be unlawful for any person, except persons lawfully entitled to own vehicles for law enforcement purposes, to paint, mark, or equip any motor vehicle in the same manner prescribed by this Code section or by the commissioner for law enforcement vehicles.
(d) When a law enforcement vehicle is disposed of, or is not in use for law enforcement, the lettering and colored lights must be removed. Any person using such vehicle for personal use prior to removing colored lights and lettering shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

40-8-92.
[ Index ]
(a) All emergency vehicles shall be designated as such by the commissioner of motor vehicle safety. The commissioner shall so designate each vehicle by issuing to such vehicle a permit to operate flashing or revolving emergency lights of the appropriate color. Such permit shall be valid for one year from the date of issuance; provided, however, that permits for vehicles belonging to federal, state, county, or municipal governmental agencies shall be valid for five years from the date of issuance. Any and all officially marked law enforcement vehicles as specified in Code Section 40-8-91 shall not be required to have a permit for the use of a blue light. Any and all fire department vehicles which are distinctly marked on each side shall not be required to have a permit for the use of a red light.
(b) The commissioner shall authorize the use of red or amber flashing or revolving lights only when the person or governmental agency shall demonstrate to the commissioner a proven need for equipping a vehicle with emergency lights. The fee for such lights shall be $2.00, provided that no federal, state, county, or municipal governmental agency shall be required to pay such fee.
(c) Nothing contained in this Code section shall prohibit the commissioner from issuing a single special use permit to cover more than one vehicle, provided each vehicle covered under such special use permit shall pay the fee specified in subsection (b) of this Code section.
(d) Except as provided in this subsection, it shall be unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to operate any motor vehicle or to park any motor vehicle on public property with flashing or revolving green lights. This subsection shall not apply to any motor vehicle being used by any law enforcement agency, fire department, emergency management agency, or other governmental entity to designate the location of the command post for such agency, department, or entity at the site of an emergency.

40-8-93.
[ Index ]
Nothing contained in Code Sections 40-8-90 and 40-8-92 shall be deemed to apply to nor construed to prohibit blinking or flashing parking or brake lights or directional signals on any motor vehicle.

40-8-94.
[ Index ]
Any authorized emergency vehicle may be equipped with a siren, whistle, or bell capable of emitting sound audible under normal conditions from a distance of not less than 500 feet, but such siren shall not be used except when such vehicle is operated in response to an emergency call or in the immediate pursuit of an actual or suspected violator of the law, in which latter event the driver of such vehicle shall sound the siren when necessary to warn pedestrians and other drivers of the approach thereof.

40-8-95.
[ Index ]
The commissioner of motor vehicle safety shall implement any and all provisions of Code Sections 40-8-90, 40-8-92, and 40-8-93 by the promulgation of necessary rules and regulations.

40-8-96.
[ Index ]
Any person violating Code Sections 40-8-90 and 40-8-92 shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

40-8-110.
[ Index ]
(a) Every bus used for the transportation of school children shall bear upon the front and rear thereof a plainly visible sign containing the words 'SCHOOL BUS' in letters not less than eight inches in height.
(b) On and after January 1, 1971, every new school bus purchased for the transportation of school children shall be painted National School Bus Chrome Yellow.

40-8-111.
[ Index ]
(a) Every bus used for the transportation of school children shall be equipped as follows:
(1) There shall be an emergency door located either at the rear of the body or at the side of the body opposite from the side on which the students normally board, so as to provide an emergency exit. The emergency door shall be operative from both the interior and exterior of the bus at all times;
(2) The driver´s seat shall be equipped with a seat belt which shall be fastened so as to secure the driver in his seat at all times when children are being transported on the bus;
(3) Combination clearance and marker lights shall be installed at each of the four roof corners. The two such lights on the front of the vehicle shall be amber in color, and the two such lights on the rear of the vehicle shall be red in color. A cluster of three lights shall be mounted between the clearance and marker lights in the front and in the rear of the bus at the roof line thereof;
(4) The body of the bus shall be equipped with four hooded or recessed red flasher lights. Such lights shall be at least 5 3/4 inches in diameter, sealed beam, and must flash when the bus is stopped to receive or discharge passengers. Two such lights shall be mounted in the front of the body above the windshield, and two such lights shall be mounted on the rear of the body above the rear windows;
(5) There shall be installed on the left outer side of the body a stop arm to give notice to drivers of other vehicles that the bus is making a stop. The requirement for a stop arm may be waived by the State Board of Education in the event a more effective warning device is prescribed;
(6) The exhaust system of the bus shall carry exhaust gases from the engine to a discharge point into the atmosphere, which point:
(A) Shall extend beyond the rear axle and shall extend at least five inches beyond the chassis frame and be mounted outside the chassis rail at end point; or
(B) May extend to, but not beyond, the body limits on the left side of the bus, beyond the driver´s compartment outboard of the chassis centerline;
(7) All floor joints of the bus shall be gas tight and constructed so as to prevent the entry of engine exhaust gases into the passenger compartment. Any opening or separation of joints in the floor shall be repaired before the bus is used for the transportation of children; and
(8) There shall be installed an outside roof mounted white flashing strobe light with clear lens emitting light 360 degrees around its vertical axis. Such strobe light shall be no greater than one-third the distance from the rear of the bus to the front of the bus and shall flash when the bus is stopped to receive or discharge passengers. Local boards of education shall be authorized, in their discretion, to require such strobe lights on buses carrying special education passengers.
(b) Nothing in subsection (a) of this Code section shall apply to motor vehicles operated by a local transit system which transport school children to and from school on regular or scheduled routes of a transit vehicle with regular fare-paying passengers.

40-8-112.
[ Index ]
Every school bus used to transport children to and from school shall comply with the State Board Bus Specifications prescribed by the State Board of Education.

40-8-113.
[ Index ]
The identification and equipment standards provided in this part shall apply to all school buses as defined in paragraph (55) of Code Section 40-1-1 regardless of size or capacity.

40-8-114.
[ Index ]
(a) Notwithstanding any other provision of this title to the contrary, churches, private schools, or local transit systems may operate school buses meeting the equipment, color, and marking requirements of Code Sections 40-8-110 through 40-8-112 and 40-8-115 and drivers of such vehicles shall be required to stop as set forth in Code Section 40-6-163. For purposes of this subsection, only churches and private schools are authorized to comply with Code Sections 40-8-110 through 40-8-112, and only local transit systems are authorized to comply with Code Section 40-8-115.
(b) Notwithstanding any other provision of this title to the contrary, the requirements relating to buses used for the transportation of school children, which requirements are contained in the following Code sections:
(1) Code Section 40-6-160, relating to speed limits;
(2) Code Section 40-6-161, relating to headlamps;
(3) Code Section 40-6-162, relating to use of visual signals;
(4) Code Section 40-6-163, relating to meeting or passing school buses;
(5) Code Section 40-8-110, relating to identification and color;
(6) Code Section 40-8-111, relating to equipment generally;
(7) Code Section 40-8-112, relating to compliance with certain State Board of Education specifications;
(8) Code Section 40-8-115, relating to identification and equipment of certain school buses; and
(9) Code Section 40-8-220, relating to inspection of school buses,
shall not apply to any bus which is owned or operated by a publicly owned and operated transit system and which either transports school children to and from school on regular or scheduled routes with regular fare-paying passengers or which engages in tripper service.

40-8-115.
[ Index ]
This part shall not prohibit the use of a school bus as defined in paragraph (55) of Code Section 40-1-1 for special school route service, provided it shall meet the following identification and equipment requirements:
(1) The bus need not be painted yellow or black;
(2) The bus shall be equipped with four hooded or recessed red flasher lights, or four red flasher lights and four amber flasher lights mounted on the same horizontal centerline as the red lights and nearer the centerline. Such amber lights shall be at least two and one-half times brighter than the red lights. The system shall be wired so that the amber signal lights are activated only by manual or foot operation and if activated are automatically deactivated and the red signal lights activated when the bus entrance door is opened; and
(3) While transporting children to or from school, the bus shall be equipped with the following temporary signs, located conspicuously on the front and back of such vehicle:
(A) The sign on the front shall have the words 'SCHOOL BUS' printed in black letters not less than six inches high, on a background of National School Bus Glossy Yellow; and
(B) The sign on the rear shall be at least ten square feet in size and shall be painted National School Bus Glossy Yellow and have the words 'SCHOOL BUS' printed in black letters not less than eight inches high.

40-8-116.
[ Index ]
It shall be unlawful to operate:
(1) Any vehicle displaying the words 'SCHOOL BUS' unless it meets the color, identification, and equipment requirements set forth in Code Section 40-8-113 or 40-8-115;
(2) A vehicle without the words 'SCHOOL BUS' but which is of a color and exhibits some equipment or identification which reasonably could cause a motorist to confuse it with a properly colored, identified, and equipped school bus;
(3) Any school bus for any purpose other than the transportation of school children to or from school or school activities without concealing or covering all markings thereon indicating 'SCHOOL BUS'; or
(4) A vehicle which has been permanently converted from the purpose of transporting students to or from school or school activities without first having painted such vehicle some color other than the yellow required in subsection (b) of Code Section 40-8-110 and without having removed the stop arms, if any, and any other equipment required by Code Section 40-8-111.

40-8-130.
[ Index ]
(a) It shall be unlawful for the owner of any motor vehicle to operate or permit the operation of such vehicle on which any device controlling or abating atmospheric emissions which is placed on a motor vehicle by the manufacturer pursuant to regulations promulgated by the United States secretary of health and human services in accordance with the provisions of Title II, the National Emissions Standards Act, of the Air Quality Act of 1967, Public Law 90-148 has been rendered unserviceable by removal, alteration, or other interference with its operation.
(b) Any person violating subsection (a) of this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
(c) Subsection (a) of this Code section shall not apply to any person repairing any such device described in that subsection or to the removal of any such device by any person for the purpose of repairing or replacing such device.
(d) Subsection (a) of this Code section shall not apply to any person removing any such device for the purpose of converting any motor vehicle to operate on natural or liquefied petroleum gas or make any other modifications which would reduce atmospheric emissions.

40-8-131.
[ Index ]
Any vehicle suspected of being operated in violation of this part may be the subject of an inspection conducted by an officer of the Georgia State Patrol who has reason to believe such violation is occurring, without the necessity of obtaining a warrant to permit such inspection.

40-8-132.
Repealed.

40-8-150 through 40-8-163.
Reserved.

40-8-180.
[ Index ]
This part shall be known and may be cited as the 'Vehicular Visible Emission Control Act.'

40-8-181.
[ Index ]
(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to operate on a public roadway of this state a diesel powered vehicle which discharges into the atmosphere visible emissions resulting in a decrease of light transmission beyond 30 percent, whether emitted from the crankcase, the exhaust system, or from any part of the power system; provided, however, that the light obscuring limitations prescribed in this subsection may be exceeded during periods of acceleration and deceleration not to exceed ten continuous seconds or 1,000 feet.
(b) It shall be unlawful for any person to operate on a public roadway of this state a gasoline powered vehicle which discharges into the atmosphere visible emissions resulting in a decrease of light transmission, whether emitted from the crankcase, the exhaust system, or from any part of the power system; provided, however, that the light obscuring limitation prescribed in this subsection may be exceeded for periods not to exceed ten continuous seconds or 1,000 feet.
(c) Subsections (a) and (b) of this Code section shall not apply to the normal discharge of condensed water vapor.

40-8-182.
[ Index ]
(a) This part shall be enforced by the duly authorized traffic control agency of this state or of any political subdivision thereof. The Air Quality Control Agency of this state shall produce and furnish to such traffic control agency appropriate light transmission gauges to be used in the enforcement of this part.
(b) A traffic violation citation shall be issued to the operator of a vehicle in violation of any provision of this part on and after January 1, 1973.

40-8-183.
[ Index ]
Any person who violates any provision of this part shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by a fine of not less than $10.00 nor more than $25.00.

40-8-184.
[ Index ]
No subdivision of this state shall enact any ordinance or issue any rules and regulations pertaining to the discharging into the atmosphere of visible emissions from diesel powered vehicles or gasoline powered vehicles.

40-8-185.
[ Index ]
This part shall not apply to off-highway farm, forest, and construction equipment being moved from one work location to another.

40-8-200.
[ Index ]
(a) The commissioner of public safety and members of the Department of Public Safety, and such other officers and employees of the department as the commissioner may designate, may at any time, upon reasonable cause to believe that a vehicle is unsafe or not equipped as required by law or that its equipment is not in proper adjustment or repair, require the driver of such vehicle to stop and submit such vehicle to an inspection and such tests with reference thereto as may be appropriate.
(b) In the event such vehicle and its equipment are found to be in safe condition and in full compliance with the law, the officer making such an inspection shall issue to the driver an official certificate of inspection and approval of such vehicle specifying those parts or equipment so inspected and approved.
(c) In the event such vehicle is found to be in unsafe condition or any required part or equipment is not present or is not in proper repair and adjustment, the officer shall give a written notice to the driver and shall send a copy to the department. Such notice shall require that such vehicle be placed in safe condition and its equipment in proper repair and adjustment specifying the particulars with reference thereto and shall require that a certificate of inspection and approval be obtained within 30 days.

40-8-201.
[ Index ]
(a) No person driving a vehicle shall refuse to submit such vehicle to an inspection and test when required to do so by the commissioner of public safety or an authorized officer of the Department of Public Safety.
(b) Every owner or driver, upon receiving a notice as provided in Code Section 40-8-200, shall comply therewith and shall within 30 days secure an official certificate of inspection and approval, which shall be issued in duplicate, one copy to be retained by the owner or driver and the other copy to be forwarded to the Department of Public Safety. In lieu of compliance with this subsection, the vehicle shall not be operated, except as provided in subsection (c) of this Code section.
(c) No person shall operate any vehicle after receiving a notice with reference thereto as provided in Code Section 40-8-200 except as may be necessary to return such vehicle to the residence or place of business of the owner or driver, or to a garage, until such vehicle and its equipment have been placed in proper repair and adjustment and otherwise made to conform to the requirements of this article. A certificate of inspection and approval shall be obtained as promptly as possible thereafter.
(d) In the event repair or adjustment of any vehicle or its equipment is found necessary upon inspection, the owner of such vehicle may obtain such repair or adjustment at any place he may choose, but in every event an official certificate of inspection and approval must be obtained; otherwise, such vehicle shall not be operated upon the highways of this state.

40-8-220.
[ Index ]
(a) Every school bus which is defined by paragraph (55) of Code Section 40-1-1 which is owned or operated by a state, county, or municipal government or under contract by any independent school system shall be inspected annually, or more frequently at the discretion of the commissioner of motor vehicle safety, under the supervision of an employee of the Department of Motor Vehicle Safety.
(b) The employee of the department shall supervise the inspection of such vehicle to determine if such vehicle possesses in safe operating condition the equipment which is applicable to school buses required by Parts 1 through 4 of Article 1 of this chapter and the equipment required by Part 6 of Article 1 of this chapter.
(c) If such vehicle is found to meet the equipment and safety requirements specified in subsection (b) of this Code section, then the employee of the department making the inspection shall issue a school bus certificate of safety inspection to the vehicle.
(d) If such vehicle does not meet the equipment and safety requirements specified in subsection (b) of this Code section, then that vehicle shall not be operated on the streets and highways of this state, and no school bus certificate of safety inspection shall be issued to such vehicle.
(e) All public school buses shall be made available for the inspection required under this Code section, and no person shall conceal any bus required to be inspected under this Code section.
(f) The commissioner of motor vehicle safety is authorized to implement any and all provisions of this Code section by the promulgation of necessary rules and regulations. When duly promulgated and adopted, all rules and regulations issued pursuant to this Code section shall have the force of law.

40-8-221.
[ Index ]
Any person who violates any provision of this article shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

40-8-222 through 40-8-264.
Repealed.

40-8-280 through 40-8-291.
Repealed.