State Representative Rahn Mayo is looking to expand Georgia’s laws against distracted driving. A measure he has introduced would allow drivers at the wheel of any vehicle to chat on their cellphones only if they have hands-free capability.
It’s the third time he has put the bill before lawmakers. The question that some are asking is whether the third time will be the charm.
The issue of distracted driving has been high on the political agenda for years already. There seems to be general consensus across the nation that distracted driving is worth of attention. Here, the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety acknowledges that distraction is a major factor in many crashes and cellphone conversations and texting are among the most common forms of distraction.
Still, there is a great deal of disparity about how to address the matter. As a result of the inconsistency, the process of establishing the full value of compensation due when accidents that result in injury or death occur can be difficult in some cases. To be confident about what recovery might be required, an attorney’s help should always be sought.
Georgia law already prohibits anyone under the age of 18 from using cellphones in any way while driving. Talking and texting are banned for those drivers. Texting is prohibited for all drivers. But the use of hand-held cellphones for conversation is legal.
That could change if Mayo’s bill is enacted. But if the reaction from at least one representative is any gauge, it appears the measure may face an uphill battle. Rep. Chuck Martin says current law is sufficient.
Violation of the hands-free bill would allow drivers to be fined $150.
Source: WGCL-TV, “Georgia lawmaker proposes hands-free devices bill for third time,” Sharita Erves and Rodney Harris, Jan. 13, 2015
