
Details About Georgia’s Hands-Free Driving Law
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.
Bans
- 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.
Allowances
- 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.
The purpose of this law is to restrict distracted driving and decrease overall traffic deaths. You can learn more about the Hands-Free Georgia Act here.
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