Distracted Driving Tag

Transportation safety has remained a top priority in the Georgia State House for many years, and I am happy to announce that the Hands-Free Georgia Act will officially go into effect on July 1. Many Georgia drivers are uncertain of what this law specifically entails. The Hands-Free Georgia Act does prohibit drivers from holding their phones and operating a motor vehicle simultaneously; however, there are other aspects of the law that Georgia drivers should be aware of.

• Drivers will not be allowed to cradle or hold a phone or other electronic wireless device behind the wheel unless the driver is making an emergency call.
• Drivers will not be allowed to use more than one button to answer or use their mobile phone.
• Drivers will not be allowed to reach for a phone or other electronic wireless device if doing so requires them to undo their seat belt or stand.
• Drivers will not be allowed to text, answer emails, watch videos, or record from behind the wheel.

• Drivers are allowed to use GPS, voice-to-text features, and can make and receive phone calls as long as it is hands-free (via single-ear headphones or Bluetooth pieces).
• Drivers are allowed to use in-car navigation and entertainment systems.
• Drivers are allowed to use music streaming apps, but they cannot activate these apps or change music while driving. Music streaming apps that include video are prohibited.
• Law enforcement, emergency, and utility drivers are still allowed to use their phones.