With the increased use of cell phones has come an increase in auto accidents related to cell phone use while behind the wheel. As the main cause for distracted driving, cell phone use takes your focus off the road, making it much easier to make driving mistakes and reducing your reaction time. To combat this Georgia passes laws on when and how you may use your cell phone when driving. According to USA Today, as of 2018, you can no longer hold your cell phone when you are behind the wheel.
In addition, you cannot look at your phone or operate it while driving. The law is strict. Officials do not want you to use your cell phone in any manner when you drive. This is a prevailing opinion across many states in the country because studies have shown cell phones distract drivers and cause accidents.
You can use your phone to listen to music and use hands-free devices to talk on the phone. You cannot touch the phone in any way, though. You must do any setup, such as pushing play or touching the phone to enter a phone number, before you begin driving while you are still in park. You may also use your phone’s map service as you drive, which is an exception to the law about not looking at your phone.
If you violate the law, law enforcement may issue you a $50 fine. For each subsequent violation, the fine doubles. This information is for educational use only. It is not legal advice.
