Should Georgia raise fines for distracted driving?
As The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported last week, Georgia lawmakers are considering a bill that would raise the fine for distracted driving violations.
A 2018 law prohibits motorists from handling their cell phones or other wireless devices while driving. Currently, the fine for a first offense is $50. Under House Bill 113, a first offense could cost up to $100, at a judge's discretion. Fines for a second offense would range from $100 to $200, and third offenses would cost $150 to $300.
The law would also eliminate a provision that requires judges to dismiss citations for first-time offenders if they bring a receipt showing they purchased a hands-free device – thus demonstrating a willingness to comply with the law.
Supporters say higher fines are needed to curb distracted driving, which experts say leads to traffic fatalities and injuries. Opponents worry higher fines could be unaffordable for many residents.
You can read more about the issue here. And we'd like to know: Do you support higher fines for distracted driving in Georgia? Why or why not?
If you’re willing to be quoted in an upcoming article, contact reporter David Wickert at dwickert@ajc.com.
About the Author
David Wickert writes about the state budget, finance and voting issues. Previously, he covered local government and politics in Gwinnett and Fulton counties. Before moving to Atlanta, he worked at newspapers in Illinois, Tennessee, Virginia and Washington.
