In Georgia, distracted driving is illegal. It’s also considered grounds for fault if it causes a car accident. In other words, a distracted driver can be held responsible for the full cost of an accident simply because they were distracted when it happened. If you were injured because of someone else’s recklessness, a distracted driving lawyer in Georgia can help.
Georgia Hands-Free Law — What You Need to Know
What is distracted driving?
The legal definition of distracted driving is different than what most people imagine. We typically picture “distracted” drivers holding a cell phone in hand and staring at the screen—texting while driving, for example. While this is one type of distracted driving, there are many others, according to the Official Code of Georgia (OCGA) § 40-6-241. Technically, any activity can count as distracted driving if it takes your attention away from the road.
Details Of The New Hands-Free Law In Georgia
Georgia recognizes three main kinds of distractions:
- Visual distractions, where you look away from the road at something else, or something else is in your line of sight.
- Manual distractions, where you are distracted by fiddling with something or using your hands. This can include eating while driving or even adjusting the radio.
- Cognitive distractions. This is when your attention is being distracted by something, even if you are still looking at the road and have both hands on the wheel. Talking hands-free on a headset can count as a cognitive distraction.
When you’re on the road, it’s best that you have your full, undivided attention to the task at hand. Any distraction can mean a fatal mistake.
What counts as distracted driving in Georgia?
The most common activities we see listed as distractions include:
- Eating food or drinking any beverage while driving
- Adjusting the stereo or a music device
- Talking to other passengers in the vehicle
- Doing makeup, brushing hair, checking teeth, etc.
- Using a map app, a paper map, or a GPS navigation system (even hands-free)
- Texting
- Talking on a cell phone or headset
- Watching videos
While these are common examples, there are other ways that someone could be accused of distracted driving. If you’re unsure whether the other person in your accident was guilty of distracted driving, a Georgia car accident attorney can help.
How do Georgia’s distracted driving laws affect my car accident claim?
It affects your case both on your end and on the other driver’s end.
For your own well-being, you need to understand that any allegation of distracted driving will be taken seriously. You should not incriminate yourself by suggesting you weren’t looking at the road or were distracted by something. For example, we often see drivers who tell the police, “I was just reaching down for the radio,” thinking that is an innocent remark. But it can be considered evidence of distraction, even if you remained alert the whole time.
At the same time, pay attention to any signs that the other driver was distracted. Don’t assume they were driving attentively just because you didn’t see a cell phone. If they mention the radio, dealing with their kids, or even having the sun in their eyes, these statements could help you get the insurance money you need.
Talk to a car accident lawyer in Georgia
If you were injured because of someone else’s recklessness, one of our car accident lawyers in Georgia can help. Personal injury attorneys John Foy & Associates free consultations. Fill out the form to your right or call us at 404-400-4000 to get your FREE consultation today
