Georgia's Hands-Free Law

Do you have a traffic ticket for violating the hands-free law in Georgia? Are you confused about the state's hands-free law and what precisely is legal or illegal while driving? You're not alone – Georgia's relatively new hands-free law requires drivers to limit the use of their electronic devices while driving so they won't be distracted from operating a vehicle safely. This post provides an overview of OCGA 40-6-241 and explains exactly what types of telecommunications activities are permissible for motorists in our state, as well as the consequences for violating this important safety measure. We'll also provide helpful tips on how to avoid breaking the hands-free law and keep your license safe!

Overview of Georgia's Hands-Free Law

Georgia's Hands-Free Law has been in effect in its current form since July 2018 and there's no denying it has had a significant impact on driver behavior. The law prohibits motorists from using their phone in any manner while driving, unless it is being used in a hands-free device. This law was implemented to reduce the alarming number of distracted driving accidents on Georgia's roads. While the transition to a hands-free driving experience may have been a challenge for some, it has ultimately proven to be a crucial and life-saving measure. In fact, within just two months of its implementation, the law resulted in a 20% reduction in fatalities on Georgia's roads. It is essential for all drivers to understand and comply with this law to ensure the safety of all those on the road.

What is Not Allowed Under OCGA 40-6-241

As a driver on Georgia's roads, it is important to understand the rules of the road to keep yourself and others safe. OCGA 40-6-241 outlines what is not allowed with electronic and telecommunications devices while operating a motor vehicle. It is crucial to understand these laws and abide by them to prevent accidents and legal repercussions.

The Georgia Hands-Free Law is a piece of legislation that was put in place to save lives and reduce the number of fatal car accidents caused by distracted driving. The law requires drivers to exercise due care when operating a vehicle and prohibits them from engaging in any actions that will distract them from safely operating the vehicle. This includes a prohibition on certain electronic devices. Here is a list of what the law says is NOT allowed if you are driving in Georgia:

You cannot physically hold or support with any part of your body a wireless telecommunications device or stand-alone electronic device. The exceptions to this are a single earpiece or single headphone (you can't have both headphones in), or a device such a smartwatch that is worn on the wrist to conduct a voice-based communication.
You cannot write, send, or read any text based communication (including but not limited to text messages, instant messages, e-mails, or Internet data) on a wireless telecommunications device or stand-alone electronic device. The exceptions to this are a voice based communication which is automatically converted by such device to be sent as a message in written form, or using the device for navigation or global positioning purposes.
You cannot watch a video or movie on a wireless telecommunications device or stand-alone electronic device other than watching data related to the navigation of your vehicle.
You cannot record or broadcast a video on a wireless telecommunications device or stand-alone electronic device. However, this does not apply when the electronic device is used for the sole purpose of continuously recording or broadcasting video within or outside of the motor vehicle (such as a dash cam).

These laws may seem strict, but they are designed to protect drivers and other roadway users from preventable accidents that can harm or take lives. As Georgia drivers, it is our duty to follow these laws and ensure our safety and the safety of others around us.

What is Allowed Under Georgia's Hands-Free Law

Georgia's Hands-Free Law, which went into effect on July 1st, 2018, prohibits drivers from holding or supporting a wireless communication device while operating a vehicle. Along with restrictions on phone use, the law allows for certain exemptions. As we saw above, as long as you have bluetooth or otherwise voice-activated connection with your electronic device, you can still utilize the device - you just cannot touch it, or use it to watch media.

Drivers can also use their phones to make an emergency phone call to report a traffic accident, medical emergency, fire, crime, or dangerous road condition. Also, an employee or contractor of a utility services provider acting within the scope of their employment while responding to a utility emergency; or a law enforcement officer, firefighter, emergency medical services personnel, ambulance driver, or other similarly employed public safety first responder during the performance of his or her official duties - these people who drive are allowed to use their phones in a way that would otherwise violate the Hands-Free Law. If you are in car but not driving, and the car is lawfully parked, then you don't have to worry about violating the Georgia Hands-Free Law, either - just make sure it is actually and lawfully parked.

It is important for drivers to understand these guidelines and abide by them, not only to avoid breaking the law but also to protect themselves and others on the road.

The Consequences for Violating the Hands-Free Law

The implementation of the Hands-Free Law has been a crucial step towards ensuring the safety of drivers and pedestrians alike. By prohibiting the use of handheld devices while driving, this legislation has significantly reduced the number of accidents caused by distracted driving. However, violating this law can have severe consequences such as fines, points on your license, and possible jail time of up to 12 months. For a first life-time Hands-Free Law traffic violation, you are allowed to bring into court with you proof of purchase of a hands-free compliant device, such as an in-car phone mount, and you will not be found guilty of the offense. This is only allowed for your first time charge of violating this law. For a conviction of a violation of this law, you will have a misdemeanor on your record, could spend up to 12 months in jail, and your fines will correspond with how many of these such offenses you have had in the past 24 months: for a first conviction, your fine is maxed at $50; for a second conviction, your fine is up to $100; for a third or more conviction, your fine is maxed at $150. Your will get points on your driving record as well: 1st offense is 1 point, 2nd offense is 2 points, 3rd offense is 3 points, and all other subsequent offenses are 3 points each.

Moreover, the danger posed by using handheld devices while driving cannot be understated, as it can lead to loss of control, impaired reaction time, and a higher chance of collision. It is, therefore, imperative that we all abide by this law and prioritize the safety of ourselves and others on the road.

How to Safely Use Your Phone While Driving

Driving is a task that requires full attention to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you. However, with the rise of smartphones, it's becoming increasingly common for drivers to use their phones while on the road. If you must use your phone while driving, it's crucial to do so safely. One way to achieve this is by using hands-free systems, such as Bluetooth or voice commands. These systems allow you to make and receive calls without taking your hands off the wheel or your eyes off the road. Another way to ensure your safety is by using a phone mount. This will allow you to view your phone's GPS or map without having to hold it in your hand. Remember, the dangers of distracted driving are real, so protect yourself and those around you by using your phone safely.

How a Traffic Ticket Attorney can Help with a Hands-Free Law Violation

Navigating traffic laws and regulations can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to understanding the ins and outs of hands-free laws. The consequences of violating these laws can result in costly fines and even license suspension. This is where a traffic ticket attorney can prove to be an invaluable asset. With their specialized knowledge and expertise, they can help you navigate the legal system and potentially minimize the consequences of your violation. From negotiating reduced fines to fighting charges in court, a skilled attorney can assist you in finding the best possible outcome for your case. By entrusting your case to a traffic ticket attorney, you can rest assured that you are in good hands and can focus on moving forward.

In Conclusion

All Georgia drivers should abide by the state's hands-free law, which is designed to protect both individual safety and that of others. The specific rules within OCGA 40-6-241 contain a lot of exceptions, including emergency issues. So if you get a ticket, make sure you contact an attorney so they can evaluate your case and see if it is a legitimate violation or one that should have been allowed under the many exceptions. By understanding the law and proactively avoiding distracted driving, we can all make Georgia's roads safer for everyone.