Every year, millions find themselves victims of a momentary lapse of judgment or the inability to resist the urge to respond to a text. This is a time-old saying that still poses to be ignored, “Don’t Text and Drive.” Distracted driving is deadly.
In 2023 alone, 3,275 people were killed as a result of distracted driving. However, this statistic may not be accurate, as it’s important to note that cell phone-related crashes are vastly under-reported (NSC); there is currently no specific way to measure if someone had been texting before the accident. That fact alone could account for tens of thousands of more cases we aren’t made aware of.
At Jones & Swanson, one of our missions is to ensure public safety above all else. We understand how tempting it can be, and want people to know that instead of waiting till you’re accounted for that growing statistic, there are things you can do and should know that could prevent the urge.
The Law about Distracted Driving.
This is not new; texting and driving has been a growing issue in our nation for the past decade. In July of 2018, the Georgia Hands-Free Act was put in place to help prevent distracted driving.
Georgia Law states that “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, in-vehicle hands-free audio system, or an electronic watch. GPS navigation devices are allowed.” (DPS)
While there are exceptions to this rule for reporting emergencies and hazards, the consensus is to keep your hands off the phone and focus on the road.
- For a first conviction of distracted driving in the state of Georgia, there will be a fine of no more than $50.00 and 1 point on your license.
- For a second conviction within 24 months, the fine will be no more than $100.00 and 2 points on your license.
- If you are found breaking this law for a third time within 24 months after your second conviction, you will have a fine of no more than $150.00 and 3 points on your license.
It takes an accumulation of 15 points within 24 months to have your license suspended in the State of Georgia. You may also see a hike in your insurance rates after receiving a ticket for distracted driving. The average rate increase is 23%, but it may be higher or lower depending on the situation, especially if you cause an accident.
What can I do about Distracted driving?
Pull Over.
- If you truly cannot avoid it, due to emergency, urgency, or anything else, pull over, find a safe spot to stop, and fully park the car. Do not sit on your brakes at a stoplight answering a text.
Designate a Texter.
- If you have a passenger in the car, let them take control of responding to friends, work, and family. They can handle it while you focus on the road.
Utilize Hands-free equipment.
- Thankfully, we live in the age of technology when most cars are equipped with Bluetooth, CarPlay, and Android Auto connections to radios. If you have an older model car, typically there will be a wired connection, and if unavailable entirely, try and purchase a Bluetooth headset instead.
Silence Your Phone.
- One of the easiest tips is to simply silence your notifications or shut off your phone; this alone is the simplest way to resist the urge each time you drive.
Put It On Do Not Disturb.
- If you need to use a directional app, it is recommended to use “Do Not Disturb.” This is an option available on both iPhone and Android.
For iPhone Users:
- Swipe down on your home screen.
- Tap the focus button where a crescent moon icon appears.
- You can also ask Siri to turn Do Not Disturb on or off.
For Android Users(May not be universal):
- Swipe down from the top of the screen twice.
- Tap the “Do Not Disturb” tile to turn on.
- Long press for a larger range of Do Not Disturb options.
Educate Your Friends and Family.
- Many will understand if you let them know you’re committed to safe driving. A simple “Hey, I’m about to drive, I’ll message after.” is all that’s needed. This way, they will understand if you don’t reply right away.
Set Reminders.
- If you know you’re on a set schedule for work or school, maybe set a reminder to reinforce the importance of not texting. Regular nudges are a great way to help prevent the urge.
Utilize Auto-Responses.
- Many phones currently provide the option to use auto-responses, and when a call is missed, you can simply create a response that says for you, “Sorry I’m Driving!”
For iPhone Users:
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- Luckily for iPhone users, the phone provides an app named Focus, and it can help you set up a ‘Driving Focus’ sequence. Go to your phone’s settings> Focus > Driving, and from here it will show you all the customizable features you can use for ‘Driving Focus’, including auto-replies!
- In the same way that you turn on Do Not Disturb, you may turn on ‘Driving Focus’, and it will set up auto-replies for you with your custom message.
For Android Users:
- It varies depending on the model of phone you have. However, it is typically located within the “Settings” app on your Android device. Look for “Do Not Disturb”, “Driving Mode”, or it may be listed under messaging options, and within this, it will have the option to set up automatic replies.
FAQ
What do I do if I’m a victim of an accident where the driver was texting?
Seek medical attention. Your health and safety are the most important factors in any situation. After you have seen a doctor, we are happy to take your call for free at any hour, any day at (770) 427-5498. We are able to discuss your options and give you an honest evaluation of your case.
Can I get a distracted driving ticket for eating while driving in Georgia?
Yes, eating while you are driving can result in a citation if it interferes with your driving. While there isn’t a direct law stating it, it falls under “distracted driving” if it causes serving, running red lights, or for you to commit another traffic violation.
Is using CarPlay or Android Auto considered distracted driving?
While it can help you focus on the road, and is utilized for the very reason to not use your phone, these features can be considered distracted driving if they require too much interaction while you are driving.
Could using my smartwatch be considered distracted driving?
Yes. The law does not state this specifically, as it says you may use it in place of a phone. It is considered distracted driving if it affects your ability to drive your vehicle safely.
Jones & Swanson encourages every driver to utilize these methods to keep others and themselves safe when behind the wheel. If you notice someone finding themselves a victim of the keyboard, sit them down, explain the risks, and try and suggest solutions, as you may just save their life as well.
IF YOU WERE HURT IN AN ACCIDENT CAUSED BY A DISTRACTED DRIVER, SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION RIGHT AWAY. THE DEDICATED AND EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONALS AT JONES & SWANSON ARE HERE TO HELP YOU. CALL OR CONTACT US ON AWJLAW.COM FOR A FREE CONSULTATION TO FIND OUT THE NEXT STEPS YOU MAY WANT TO TAKE.
Categories: Auto Accidents, Car Accident, Defensive Driving, Distracted Driving, Personal Injury, Safety Tips, Texting Accidents
