In an effort to curb distracted driving, driver distraction, and reduce traffic accidents, vehicle traffic crashes, and rear-end crashes, Georgia introduced the Hands-Free Georgia Act on July 1, 2018. This pivotal hands-free law, also known as the Hands-Free GA Act, mandates that drivers must not physically engage with wireless telecommunications devices, wireless telecommunication devices, or stand-alone electronic devices while operating motor vehicles. The team at Ted Law Firm aims to provide clarity so you can stay compliant and avoid becoming a distracted driver.
The Core of the Law: What’s Prohibited?
The Hands-Free Georgia Act strictly prohibits the following while operating a vehicle:
- Holding or supporting a wireless telecommunications device, mobile devices, or stand-alone electronic device.
- Writing, sending, or reading any electronic communication, including text-based communications or social media content, even on navigation devices.
- Watching, recording, or broadcasting video calls, music streaming apps, dashboard cameras, or broadcast video.
- Engaging in voice-based communication or using a hands-free device improperly.
- Using electronic communication devices or Bluetooth-enabled devices while not on a hands-free basis.
Importantly, this applies even when you’re at a traffic signal or stopped in traffic.
Permitted Uses: When Can You Use Your Device?
Georgia’s hands-free driving laws allow limited usage:
- Using navigation systems like Google Maps, mapping app, or other navigation purposes only if the device is mounted.
- Making calls via hands-free accessories, approved hands-free devices, or vehicle’s built-in systems.
- Playing audio via music apps, mp3 players, or internet data content hands-free.
- Contacting emergency services during an emergency situation, utility emergency, or medical emergency.
- Usage of devices for voice, digital assistants, or subscription-based emergency communication devices when legally parked.
Specific Exemptions: Who is Excluded?
The law makes exceptions for:
- Public safety officials including law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel performing official duties.
- Utility service providers, including contractors of utility services, addressing hazardous conditions or hazardous road conditions.
- Commercial drivers, school bus drivers, or those operating commercial vehicles using commercial two-way radio communication devices, band radios, or two-way radios.
Penalties for Violating the Law
Violations within a 24-month period can escalate:
- 1st conviction: $50 fine and 1-point offense.
- 2nd conviction: $100 fine and 2-point offense.
- 3rd conviction or subsequent conviction: $150 fine and 3-point offense.
Multiple offenses can lead to increased insurance rates, accident claim denials, or charges after Distracted Driving conviction, especially if tied to Distracted driving accidents, single-vehicle accidents, deadly auto accidents, or bodily injury.
Staying Compliant: Practical Tips
To avoid driver distraction and remain safe:
- Install a phone mount to access your cell phone or mobile phone legally.
- Use voice-based communication tools and hands-free accessory devices.
- Program navigation systems or navigation devices before driving.
- Keep your phone in the glove box or use a Bluetooth-enabled device.
- Ask a passenger to assist with communication purposes or music apps.
The Larger Impact: Why This Law Matters
The Hands-Free Georgia Act, signed by Nathan Deal, was enacted to reduce auto accident fatalities, rear-end collisions, and vehicle traffic crashes. Following a Distracted Driving conviction can result in long-term harm, including brain injuries, dental injuries, and loss of life. The Office of Highway Safety highlights a decrease in traffic fatalities and decline in traffic incidents since the law’s enactment.
Protecting Yourself and Others
Compliance with Georgia’s hands-free law prevents communication device misuse, lowers the risk of accidents, and promotes safe operation. From inexperienced teen drivers to commercial truck drivers, every driver benefits from reducing potential distractions and following the law.
About Ted Law Firm
At Ted Law Firm, we help Georgia drivers deal with collision insurance claims, citations, or auto accident attorneys know what it takes to deal with insurance companies and win .Contact Ted Law Firm today for a comprehensive discussion about your situation. Our dedicated personal injury attorneys will guide you through every step and help secure the justice your family deserves. Let Ted Law Firm handle the legal stress while you focus on healing. In addition to Georgia we also proudly help people in Atlanta, Columbus, Macon, Athens, Savannah, Warner Robins, and all of Georgia! We advocate for accident victims across South Carolina and Georgia. We fight for fair compensation – even when insurance companies don’t.
