Distracted Driving in Georgia — What You Need to Know

At The Jewkes Firm, we understand the devastating impact that distracted driving can have on victims and their families. If you or a loved one has been injured due to another driver’s negligence while distracted, our experienced Georgia personal injury attorneys are here to help you secure the compensation and justice you deserve.

What is Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving refers to any activity that diverts a driver’s attention away from the primary task of driving. This lapse in concentration can lead to accidents causing injury, property damage, or even death. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) defines distracted driving as driving while engaged in any activity that takes the driver’s eyes, hands, or mind off the road.

Common Types of Distracted Driving

Distracted driving can take many forms including:

• Texting or Using a Mobile Phone. Sending or reading texts, making calls, or using apps while driving is one of the most dangerous distractions.
• Eating or Drinking. Trying to eat a meal or sip a beverage while driving can impair reaction times.
• Adjusting the Radio or GPS. Fiddling with in-vehicle systems diverts attention from the roadway.
• Talking to Passengers. Engaging in deep conversation or turning to speak with someone in the car.
• Grooming or Personal Hygiene. Activities like applying makeup can draw focus away from driving.
• Other distractions. Reaching for something inside the vehicle, daydreaming, or looking at an accident scene outside the window.

Georgia’s Distracted Driving Laws

In Georgia, distracted driving laws aim to reduce accidents caused by driver inattention, especially those related to mobile phone use.

Texting While Driving Ban

Georgia state law prohibits all drivers from texting while driving. This law applies to writing, sending, or reading text-based communications on a handheld device. If caught, drivers may face fines and points on their driving record.

Hands-Free Law

While Georgia does not have a full ban on handheld cell phone use for all drivers, there are restrictions. For instance, teen drivers and school bus drivers are prohibited from using handheld devices while driving.

School Zones and Construction Zones

Extra caution is required in school and construction zones, where fines for distracted driving violations can be doubled.

Legal Implications in Personal Injury Cases

Violations of distracted driving laws can serve as evidence of negligence in personal injury lawsuits. If a distracted driver causes an accident, victims may have grounds to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

The Dangers of Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a leading cause of motor vehicle accidents both statewide and nationally. The dangers include:

• Delayed Reaction Time. Even a few seconds of distraction can result in failure to brake or steer properly.
• Swerving and Lane Deviations. Drivers who take their eyes off the road are more likely to drift into other lanes.
• Rear-End Collisions. Distracted drivers may not notice slowing or stopped traffic.
• Pedestrian and Cyclist Injuries. Failure to see pedestrians or cyclists can cause serious injuries.
• Multiple Vehicle Crashes. Distractions can initiate chain-reaction crashes involving multiple cars.

The National Safety Council reports that distracted driving was involved in thousands of crashes in Georgia annually, resulting in injuries and fatalities. This demonstrates the critical importance of staying focused behind the wheel.

What to Do if You Are Injured by a Distracted Driver

If you have been injured due to someone else’s distracted driving, you should take the following steps:

• Seek Medical Attention Immediately. Your health and safety are the top priorities.
• Report the Accident. Call law enforcement so a police report is created. This often includes details about any distractions involved.
• Gather Evidence. Take photos of the scene, obtain witness contact information, and preserve any relevant communication e.g., text messages.
• Notify Your Insurance Company. Report the accident promptly but avoid admitting fault or speculating about cause.
• Contact The Jewkes Firm. Speak with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney to discuss your legal options.

Potential Compensation in Distracted Driving Injury Cases

If you have been injured by a distracted driver in Georgia, you may be entitled to various types of damages, including:

• Medical Expenses. Costs for hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and follow-up care.
• Lost Wages. Compensation for income you missed due to being unable to work.
• Future Medical Costs. Coverage for ongoing or anticipated medical treatment.
• Pain and Suffering. Monetary damages for physical pain and emotional distress.
• Property Damage. Repair or replacement of your vehicle and other damaged property.
• Loss of Consortium. Compensation for loss of companionship or affection in a family relationship.

Our attorneys will evaluate the full scope of your accident’s impact and fight for the compensation you need to move forward.

Preventing Distracted Driving Safety Tips

While we fight for victims after accidents occur, prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to avoid distracted driving:

• Put your phone on “Do Not Disturb” mode while driving.
• Set GPS directions before you start driving.
• Eat and drink before or after your trip, not while driving.
• Avoid engaging in distracting conversations with passengers.
• Focus wholly on the road and avoid multitasking behind the wheel.
• Pull over safely if you must use your phone or deal with distractions.