Politics
Politics

Georgia distracted driving bill: What’s legal and what’s not?

What's legal and what isn't in the Georgia distracted driving bill? Ga. House Bill 673 would require drivers to use hands-free technology when using cell phones and other electronic devices while driving. The goal is to pry our eyes away from cell phones while we’re behind the wheel – behavior experts say has led to a spike in fatalities on Georgia highways . But “hands free” isn’t as clear cut as it sounds. The bill prohibits anyone from handling a “wireless telecommunication device” whi
By
Feb 23, 2018

After several public hearings and a lot of tweaks, legislation to crack down on distracted driving cleared a state House of Representatives committee on Wednesday.

House Bill 673 would require drivers to use hands-free technology when using cell phones and other electronic devices while driving. The goal is to pry our eyes away from cell phones while we're behind the wheel – behavior experts say has led to a spike in fatalities on Georgia highways and rising insurance premiums to boot.

But “hands free” isn’t as clear cut as it sounds. And some behaviors are allowed under the bill, while others aren’t. Hint: GPS apps are okay, watching a movie is not.

For a full look at what the bill would and wouldn't allow, visit the Spinning Our Wheels blog at myajc.com.

MYAJC.COM: REAL JOURNALISM. REAL LOCAL IMPACT.

The AJC's David Wickert keeps you updated on the latest in what's happening with transportation in metro Atlanta and Georgia. You'll find more on myAJC.com, including these stories:

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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.

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