Is Texting And Driving Against The Law In Georgia?
Since 2010, texting while driving has been against the law in Georgia. In 2018, the Hands-Free Georgia Act took effect, which also made it illegal to use a phone for many other functions. These laws are important to know after a car accident, as it can sometimes make it easier for you to claim damages.
Even though it is a violation of the law, too many drivers still continue to hold, talk on, or look at their phone while they are driving. When they do, they are at much greater risk of causing an accident. If you have been hurt in a crash, our Marietta car accident lawyer can determine if the other driver was on their phone, and help you claim the full settlement you deserve.
The Law on Texting and Driving in Georgia
While the state law in 2010 only addressed texting and driving, cell phones and smartphones have come a long way since then. As a result, there were more restrictions placed on cell phone use several years ago in Georgia. The law now makes it illegal for drivers to take many actions with their phones. As of 2018, drivers cannot:
- Hold a phone with their hand, or have a phone touching any other part of their body while they are talking on it
- Read or send emails, text messages, social media, or any other content on their phone, even if they are using hands-free functions
- Watch videos while operating the vehicle
- Use their phone to record videos while driving
Motorists in the state are permitted to stream music from their phone while they are driving. However, they cannot touch their phone to select or change a song. Music apps on a phone can be controlled if a driver is able to do so through the vehicle’s sound system.
How Does the Law Affect Car Accidents in Georgia?
The distracted driving laws in Georgia are strict, and anyone who violates them will face criminal penalties. However, these laws also affect car accidents in the state.
Holding a phone, as well as other actions involving a cell phone, are illegal in Georgia because they are dangerous and can cause an accident. Any time a motorist violates traffic law in the state, they are considered negligent per se. This means that if you can prove the driver broke the law, that motorist is presumed to be negligent and can be held liable for damages.
Our Marietta Car Accident Attorney Can Help You Claim Damages
If you have been injured in a crash caused by a distracted driver, do not file your claim on your own. At The Strickland Firm, our Marietta car accident lawyer can prove the other driver was distracted so you can claim the maximum damages you are entitled to. Call us today at 1-844-GAJUSTICE or fill out our online form to schedule a free case evaluation with our experienced attorney and to obtain the sound legal advice you need.
Resource:
dph.georgia.gov/driving-put-down-your-phone-its-law
