Representative Seeks to Remove Loophole in Georgia’s Hands-Free Law

Georgia has had a Hands Free law in effect ever since July 1, 2018. This is the law that forbids the use of electronic devices in vehicles while driving. Instead, drivers have to use hands-free technology to answer calls so they can pay attention to driving.

The law was put into effect after five nursing students died in a crash caused by a distracted driver, but there is a small loophole in the law that some seek to close. CBS 46 reported on the matter.

At the time of the bill’s signing, not everyone had hands-free technology to use. So a small loophole was placed in the bill. If you were a first-time offender and showed up to court with a receipt for a hands-free device, your charges would be dropped. We surmise this was to allow people some time to get the devices.

Now, six years after the accident, Representative John Carson wants to close that loophole. He sponsored the law three years ago. 

“It essentially a slap on the wrist to go into a court and fill out an affidavit and say it’s my first time I’ll never do it again. It’s the only misdemeanor in Georgia code where we allow this. It’s time for this waiver to go,” said Rep. John Carson, R-Marietta.

Crashes happen for many reasons, but distracted driving is one of the few where the control is firmly in the hands of the driver. You don’t have to answer that call. Instead, shut off your phone, enjoy the drive, and pay attention. You could save your life!