You’re driving along Georgia’s beautiful roads when, all of a sudden, your phone rings with an important message. You want to check it, but you should know that it’s against the law in Georgia to do so because of strict rules against driving while distracted.
The Coweta County car accident attorneys at Kam, Ebersbach, & Lewis stress the significance of knowing Georgia’s rules about driving while distracted. It’s important to understand what happens when you break these rules and stress how important it is to drive safely and responsibly.
Efforts in Georgia to Reduce Distracted Driving:
The fight against distracted driving is an important one in Georgia. Legislators in Georgia are committed to addressing the serious problem of distracted driving. The regulations in Georgia cover more than just cell phone use while driving; they also prohibit other forms of distraction. The most important parts of Georgia’s distracted driving rules are as follows.
Don’t Touch Your Phones:
Georgia law makes it abundantly clear that motorists are not allowed to use or even use a mobile phone or other electronic device at any time. Everything from talking on the phone to scrolling through social media is included here.
The Future Is Hands-Free:
Georgia law mandates the use of hands-free devices while driving. As a result, drivers can use hands-free options like earpieces, headsets, and speaker phones without taking their attention off the road.
Teens Are Watched Closely:
In an effort to safeguard new and inexperienced motorists, the use of any electronic device, including hands-free ones, is strictly prohibited for individuals holding an instructional permit.
Work and Schools Zones:
Safety near schools and construction sites is a top priority. Drivers in certain places are strictly prohibited from using any electronic devices while behind the wheel.
Teenage Class D license holders are closely monitored for the first six months of their license, during which time they are prohibited from using a cell phone while behind the wheel.
Exceptions for Emergencies:
These limitations do not apply to emergency workers and first responders who must use electronic devices as part of their official tasks.
Dealing with Effects
The consequences for violating Georgia’s distracted driving laws are severe and grow more severe with each successive infraction. To encourage appropriate behavior when driving, an appreciation for the seriousness of these repercussions is essential. If you are detected breaking the law, you may be subject to the following consequences:
If it’s your first time getting in trouble, you might be fined up to $50 and given one point on your driving record.
● Two negative marks will be added to your driving record, and the fine will increase to $100 if this is your second offense within 24 months.
● For further offenses within 24 months, drivers can expect to pay up to $150 and receive three points on their license.
● Points on your record can lead to higher insurance rates and may get your driving license suspended. It’s not just about being law-abiding; it’s about people’s lives and the community as a whole. Every one of us must drive safely and responsibly.
The Influence of Safe Driving
Being a responsible driver means thinking about more than just yourself when you’re behind the wheel. Accidents, including injuries, property damage, or even death, can result from even the briefest of diversions. To be a responsible driver, you must:
Never take your attention off of the road, other vehicles, or traffic signs. Both your own and other people’s lives depend on it.
The laws of Georgia can be counted on as partners in the fight against distracted driving. These regulations go beyond what is required by law and are indicative of an effort to lessen the number of injuries and fatalities that result from distracted driving. Together, we can make roads and communities safer by learning and following these rules of the road.