Although there is no federal (nationwide) law that prohibits texting or using a wireless phone while driving, many states have passed laws that prohibit such activities—and some municipalities (cities, towns) have also passed ordinances that restrict texting, talking, or emailing while driving. For example:
• 25 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam have banned drivers from hand-held phone use while driving.
• 48 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam have banned texting while driving for all drivers.
• 37 states and the District of Columbia prohibit all cell phone use by novice drivers.
• 23 states and the District of Columbia prohibit school bus drivers from cell phone use while driving.
For more information on state laws, visit the Governor Highway Safety Association page by copying this link and pasting it into your internet browser: https://www.ghsa.org/state-laws/issues/distracted%20driving
In Georgia, it is illegal for all drivers to text while driving, which includes reading, writing, or sending text messages and emails, as well as using the internet. This is covered under Georgia's 'Hands-Free Law' (House Bill 673), which took effect on July 1, 2018. The law also prohibits drivers from holding or supporting a wireless telecommunications device or stand-alone electronic device (like an iPod) while driving. Furthermore, drivers are not allowed to watch videos or movies on such devices. However, the use of GPS navigation and hands-free calls are permitted. For novice drivers, which includes drivers with a learner's permit or those under 18 with a Class D license, all cell phone use is banned while driving. School bus drivers in Georgia are also prohibited from using cell phones while driving if they are transporting passengers. Penalties for violating these laws include fines and points on the driver's license, which can lead to increased insurance rates and potential license suspension for accumulating points.