Understanding Georgia’s Hands-Free Law
Distracted driving is a major cause of accidents in Georgia. Every year, thousands of people get hurt because drivers are not paying attention. Using a phone while driving is especially dangerous. At 50 miles per hour, a car travels the length of a football field in just four seconds. That is plenty of time to get into a serious accident if a driver is looking at their phone.
Georgia passed the Hands-Free Georgia Act, also known as House Bill 673, which went into effect on July 1, 2018. The law is designed to reduce accidents caused by drivers holding or using electronic devices. Under this law, drivers are not allowed to hold a phone while driving, except for limited situations like emergencies or when the vehicle is parked. This includes talking, texting, or using apps.
What Drivers Cannot Do Under the Hands-Free Law
The law makes it illegal to send, read, or write text messages while driving. Watching videos or using apps for entertainment is also not allowed. Drivers may only use voice commands to send messages or make calls through hands-free devices such as Bluetooth or car systems. Using earbuds or headsets is permitted, but only for calls or voice-to-text. Listening to music or other audio for entertainment through these devices while driving is prohibited. Any changes to music or streaming apps must be done while parked.
Using GPS and Mobile Devices for Directions
It is okay to use your phone for GPS directions, but the device must be mounted and hands-free. The law does not allow drivers to hold the phone or touch it while driving, even to adjust directions. Voice commands or pre-setting the route while parked are safe ways to follow directions without breaking the law.
Exceptions to the Hands-Free Law
There are some exceptions to the law. Drivers can use their phones in emergencies, such as reporting a crash or calling for help. Vehicles that are lawfully parked are exempt from the hands-free restriction. Utility workers responding to urgent situations and first responders performing their duties are also allowed to use their devices. These exceptions are limited to safety and emergency situations only.
Special Rules for Commercial Vehicle Operators and School Bus Drivers
Commercial drivers and school bus operators have stricter rules. Using a wireless device for any non-emergency purpose while the vehicle is moving is prohibited. This is to protect passengers, other drivers, and pedestrians. Even short distractions can be dangerous when driving large vehicles or transporting children.
Penalties for Violating the Hands-Free Law
Violating the Hands-Free Georgia Act carries penalties. For a first offense, drivers face a fine of $50 and one point added to their license. A second offense increases the fine to $100 and two points. A third or subsequent offense results in a $150 fine and three points. These penalties aim to encourage drivers to follow the law and avoid distracted driving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some drivers wonder if using earbuds or AirPods counts as breaking the law. You can use them only for calls or voice-to-text functions. Listening to music or watching videos while driving is not allowed. Another common question is whether it is okay to use a phone at a red light. The law only allows phone use when the car is fully parked, not stopped temporarily at a light. Drivers also ask if texting while using voice-to-text is legal. It is allowed only if the messages are sent using hands-free technology without touching the phone.
Why Following the Hands-Free Law Matters
Following Georgia’s hands-free rules keeps drivers, passengers, and pedestrians safer. Even a short glance at a phone can cause a crash. The penalties are meant to deter risky behavior and reduce accidents on the road. Using hands-free devices properly and keeping attention on driving can prevent injuries and save lives.
Get Legal Help
If you or someone you know has been injured in a crash involving distracted driving, it is important to speak with an experienced attorney. Understanding your rights and the laws that apply can make a difference in your case. Contact B’Ivory LaMarr Trial Lawyers at (877) 438-7243 to discuss your situation and get guidance on how to move forward.