June 25, 2018

Hands-Free Georgia Act

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Let’s save some lives

Before we outline the specifics, let’s cover the why. Heads UP Georgia hit the nail on the head when they explained our state has seen significant increases in vehicle traffic crashes, fatalities, and bodily injury, and that these incidents are a clear indication of driver inattention. Other states that have passed similar laws have seen significant decreases in traffic fatalities the years after the law was passed.

Your safety and the safety of other Georgians and our millions of visitors each year are paramount. Thank you for reading and investing in safe driving practices.

Here’s a link to the complete law, below is our personal summary that is being provided to help inform you of the changes to take effect July 1, 2018.

  • Can I hold a wireless telecommunications device and drive? NO
  • Can I hold a wireless telecommunications device while lawfully parked? YES
  • Is sitting at a red light or stop sign lawfully parked? NO
  • Can I answer or use a wireless telecommunications device while driving? YES, BUT you may not use more than a single button to initiate or terminate the voice communication AND you may not reach for the device if it means you are no longer seated or have to remove your seat belt
  • Can I use hands-free voice-to-text? YES
  • Can I use hands-free GPS? YES
  • Can I use hands-free single-ear headphones? YES
  • Can I use hands-free Bluetooth pieces? YES
  • Can I use in-car navigation? YES
  • Can I use in-car stereo/equipment? YES
  • Can I use voice technology? YES, IF it’s hands-free
  • Can I text/email while holding a wireless telecommunications device? NO
  • Can I watch videos while driving? NO
  • Can I record videos while driving? NO