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Understanding Georgia’s Distracted Driving Laws

On Behalf of | Aug 16, 2017 | Uncategorized

With each passing year, there are more and more ways for drivers to become distracted while they should be paying complete attention to the road. Each state has distracted driving laws in place that are meant to protect drivers from harming themselves, their passengers, and other drivers. It’s important to understand Georgia’s distracted driving laws so that you can stay safe on the road.

If you’ve been the victim of a distracted driving car accident, call Adams Law Firm today at 478-772-3939.

“Distracted” Driving is NOT Just Texting and Driving

A common misconception about distracted driving is that it’s mostly just about texting. While texting is a significant aspect of distracted driving, there are numerous other ways one can be guilty of distracted driving, such as:

  • Adjusting the radio
  • Eating and drinking
  • Grooming (applying makeup, brushing hair, shaving)
  • Talking to passengers
  • Using a navigation system or a map

Each of these actions can be very dangerous by distracting the hands, eyes, or focus of the driver.

Georgia Cell Phone and Texting Laws

Although some states completely prohibit the use of cell phones while driving, Georgia is not one of them. Georgia driving laws allow drivers over the age of 18 to talk on the phone, whether handheld or hands-free. However, if you are under the age of 18, you are prohibited from using your cell phone at all, even using hands-free methods.

Georgia driving laws also stipulate that texting while driving is illegal for any driver. This includes cell phones, computers, and any other wireless device and prohibits the writing, sending, or reading of any text data while driving. The law provides exclusions for people who are safely parked, first responders during the performance of official duties, public utility employees responding to public utility emergencies, and people reporting an accident or emergency (such as a fire, crime, or other situation where someone’s health or safety is in jeopardy.)

The attorneys at Adams Law Firm would like to encourage everyone to follow all Georgia laws when operating a vehicle. These various distractions can be taken care of before you drive or they can wait until after.