Limpert Tech "SullyCast" on ALT 105.7 - Georgia's Hands Free Law and Gadgets Allowed

An FYI, if you have been living under a rock.

Starting July 1, Georgia has adopted a "hands-free" law for drivers...

House Bill 673- “Hands Free Law”

House Bill 673 also known as the “Hands Free Law” was passed by the Georgia General Assembly and signed into law by Governor Nathan Deal.  The Hands Free Law will take effect on July 1, 2018.  The following is a brief description what the law states and some frequently asked questions.  A link to the complete law can be found at www.gahighwaysafety.org.
   

A driver cannot have a phone in their hand or use any part of their body to support their phone.  Drivers can only use their phones to make or receive phone calls by using speakerphone, earpiece, wireless headphone, phone is connected to vehicle or an electronic watch.  GPS navigation devices are allowed.

Have a listen to Rick and Sully:

Headsets and earpieces can only be worn for communication purposes and not for listening to music or other entertainment.

    A driver may not send or read any text-based communication unless using voice-based communication that automatically converts message to a written text or is being used for navigation or GPS
    A driver may not write, send or read any text messages, e-mails, social media or internet data content
    A driver may not watch a video unless it is for navigation.
    A driver may not record a video (continuously running dash cams are exempt)
    Music streaming apps can be used provided the driver activates and programs them when they are parked. 

Drivers cannot touch their phones to do anything to their music apps when they are on the road.  Music streaming apps that include video also are not allowed since drivers cannot watch videos when on the road.  Drivers can listen to and program music streaming apps that are connected to and controlled through their vehicle's radio.


1.  Exceptions to the law (for now)

1.    Reporting a traffic crash, medical emergency, fire, criminal activity or hazardous road conditions.
2.    An employee or contractor of an utility service provider acting within the scope of their employment while responding to an utility
       emergency.
3.     A first responder (law enforcement, fire, EMS) during the performance of their official duties.
4.     When in a lawfully parked vehicle—this DOES NOT include vehicles stopped for traffic signals and stop signs on the public roadway.


2. Gadgets you might want to consider that comply with the new Georgia Law

a. Apple Watch - you can use the voice features of your Apple Watch while driving.

b. Ear piece - You can use a single ear piece with a device that is not in your hand.

c. Buy a Popsocket and mount - A Popsocket is a cellphone holder that can clip onto your car’s air conditioning vent or a mount on your dash
 
d. Handsfree Car Bluetooth® Speaker - make sure you use at reasonable volumes
 

e. The Law still allows for use of in-car navigation, communication and entertainment systems.

3. Also to remember:

As long as someone is legally parked, they are allowed to do these things. But “legally parked” does not mean at a stoplight or in gridlocked traffic. Also, law enforcement, emergency and utility workers are still allowed to use their phones.

13 of the 15 states that already have similar laws have seen at least a 16 percent decrease in traffic deaths. GDOT says that 1,549 people died on Georgia’s roads in 2017. If we all do our jobs and obey the Hands-Free Georgia Act, that number could decrease by almost 250 per year.

Penalties for breaking the law aren’t steep. First-time offenders get one point on their license and a $50 fine. The second offense is two points and $100 and the third is three points and $150.