However, even with this progress, the numbers remain significant. An estimated 36,640 traffic fatalities occurred in 2025 alone. After drunk driving, distracted driving continues to be one of the main causes of auto deaths and injuries on U.S. roads.
At Jones & Swanson, April serves as an important reminder to promote safer driving habits. Reducing these numbers depends on the choices drivers make every day: staying attentive, minimizing distractions, and prioritizing safety behind the wheel.
What is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving is any activity that takes the driver’s attention (and hands) away from the task of safe driving. This can include a mix of visual, manual, and cognitive actions. Staying focused on the road is key to driving safely. Distracted driving can include:
- Using a cell phone to call or text.
- Eating or drinking.
- Grooming or applying makeup in the mirror.
- Staring and slowing down or “Rubbernecking” at a roadside incident.
- Touching a GPS navigation system.
- Looking at a passenger, such as your children, in the back seat.
- Reaching for a dropped object on the floor.
- Changing the climate controls.
- Adjusting the radio.
- Daydreaming, being fatigued, or drowsy.
Is Distracted Driving Against The Law in Georgia?
Not all forms of distracted driving are specifically stated to be against the law, but if such actions cause you to drive recklessly, this can cause you to be pulled over and cited. Phone usage, however, is specifically stated to be against the law in Georgia.
The Hands-Free Law has been active in Georgia since 2018. This means that you may not have a phone in hand, touch any part of your body, or watch videos via a cellular device while operating a vehicle. There is an exception to the rule: you may report emergencies, but all else must be hands-free and Bluetooth.
What Can I Do To Stop Distracted Driving?
It is important to note that we can not fully be prepared for all forms of distracted driving, but there are actions you can take to prevent frequent distractions.
Prepare before you drive
- Set your navigation system to your designated location.
- Ensure your mirrors and windows have a clear vision of the road around you.
- Secure all passengers and pets.
- Check your vehicle’s tires, gas levels, and drivability.
Do Not Multitask and set an example
- Avoid eating, drinking, reading, or grooming while you drive.
- This helps break the habit of making it common to engage in distracted driving.
- Avoid calling friends and family when you know they are also driving.
- This shows that you respect their safety and want to help contribute to their safe driving skills.
Prevent Cellphone Usage
- Utilize your phone’s Do Not Disturb controls.
- This can include silencing notifications and automatic replies.
- Designate a friend to text for you.
- Carpooling is a great thing, and you can have a friend or family member be your designated responder. This way, you can respond in a timely and safe manner.
- Pull over and park.
- If you are alone and have to respond, pull over and park in a designated parking spot to answer your phone. Pausing at a red light is illegal and violates the Hands-Free Law.
- Utilize Bluetooth.
- Most modern vehicles include systems with CarPlay and Android Auto. These will help you utilize Talk-To-Text and Bluetooth phone call handling while driving.
- Stash your phone.
- Put your phone completely away or turn it off to resist the urge.
What if I am a Victim of a Distracted Driving Accident in Georgia?
- Move to a safe location and call 911, even if you are not injured.
- Take pictures & videos of any involved vehicles/persons, the accident scene, and of your/your passengers’ injuries.
- Gather the names and contact information of all witnesses.
- Seek medical attention and assist those who have been injured. The most important aspect of every car accident case is the health and safety of those involved.
- Contact Jones & Swanson for a FREE consultation. Only an experienced attorney will have the knowledge and expertise to give you the best possible result following a car accident.
Don’t wait, call an experienced Georgia Personal Injury Attorney.
At Jones & Swanson, we have a combined 50 years of legal experience, a proven track record of winning millions for our clients and the tools to ensure you receive fair compensation from the party responsible for your damages.
We are available any hour, any day to schedule a FREE consultation following your accident. All you have to do is contact us to get help today.
Jones & Swanson Is A Georgia-based Personal Injury Attorney. If You Have Any Questions, call Jones & Swanson For A Free Consultation or Contact Us On Awjlaw.com. We have Decades Of Combined Experience Representing Individuals In Accidents. We Are More Than Happy To Answer Any Questions You May Have.
Categories: Auto Accidents, Distracted Driving, Drowsy Driving, Georgia Laws, Safety Tips
