Georgia’s Hands Free Law: What Drivers Need to Know

On July 1, 2018, Georgia traffic law changed with Georgia’s Hands Free Law, which allows a law enforcement officer to issue a ticket if he or she sees you holding your phone behind the wheel. Your phone cannot actually be touching any part of your body. You cannot use more than one button to make a call.

Many questions exist about what violates Georgia’s Hands Free Law. For example: is putting a GPS address into an app unlawful? What about wearable technology like smartwatch use?

At Philip Kim Law, P.C., we defend Gwinnett County clients against a wide variety of traffic violations. Fighting a ticket can limit the number of points against your license and avoid a potential suspension.

When initially debated in the legislature, the proposed law had fines ranging from $150 to $900. The final law includes lower fines, but progressive penalties depending on the number of violations within a 24-month period:

• 1^st Offense — $50 penalty and one point
• 2^nd Offense — $100 and two points
• 3^rd and subsequent offenses — $150 and three points

You may be able to avoid a first violation by proving to the court that you purchased hands-free technology or devices.

Because Georgia’s Hands Free Law has gray areas and enforcement isn’t always consistent, it may help to speak with a lawyer about your options.

Defense attorney Philip Kim is up to date on Georgia law and can explain your possible options to challenge a traffic violation. Schedule a time to speak with him by email or call (678) 201-0496. You need a lawyer in your corner.