Hands-Free Laws: Practical Considerations For Employers

As of July 1, 2018, Georgia is now one of 16 states that have banned the use of a hand-held cell phone while driving. Under the new Hands-Free Georgia Act (House Bill 673), drivers in Georgia may not:

• Physically hold or support a wireless communication device or stand-alone electronic device with any part of the body;
• Write, send, or read any text based communications on such devices;
• Watch a video or movie on such devices; or
• Record or broadcast a video on such devices.

The Hands-Free Georgia Act does allow drivers to use a single button on a wireless device to make a voice phone call. Under the new law, drivers may also use a wireless device for voice-to-text communications and for navigation purposes. Drivers may use a wireless device in a lawfully parked vehicle, but not while the vehicle is at a stop light or in stopped traffic.