After a serious crash, knowing that another driver may have been using a phone can leave you with questions about what happened and who was responsible. In Georgia, drivers must comply with specific restrictions on phones and other electronic devices behind the wheel. House Bill 673, known as the Hands-Free Georgia Act, establishes those restrictions and may also become relevant when distracted driving contributes to a collision.
What does the hands-free law prohibit?
Under state law, you generally cannot:
- Hold or support a phone or electronic device with any part of your body.
- Write, send or read texts, emails or other written messages.
- Watch videos while driving.
- Record or broadcast video from a device.
The law permits hands-free uses, including voice-to-text and GPS navigation, and provides exceptions for emergencies and lawfully parked vehicles. You still cannot hold your phone while stopped on the road at a red light or stop sign. A first conviction can result in a fine of up to $50 and one point on your license, with increased penalties for repeat convictions within 24 months.
Truck and other commercial drivers face additional restrictions. For example, they generally cannot use more than one button to start or end a voice call or reach for a device if doing so requires them to leave the driver’s seat or unfasten their seat belt.
How can phone use affect a crash claim?
If another driver violates the hands-free law and causes your crash, evidence of that violation may help show how the collision happened. However, a violation alone does not prove every part of an injury claim.
Cellphone records, witness statements, dashcam or surveillance video and the crash report may help determine whether the driver was using a device before or around the time of the crash. These details can help connect the distraction to the collision and your injuries.
Know what may matter after a distracted-driving crash
Georgia’s hands-free law establishes clear restrictions on device use, but every collision involves different circumstances. Understanding the other driver’s actions, the evidence of distraction and the extent of your injuries can help clarify how the law may apply to your claim. Legal guidance can help you evaluate these factors and understand your options.