According to statistics compiled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), an estimated 420,000 auto accidents each year occur due to a distracted driver. Additionally, the majority of those distracted driving accidents occurred because a driver was using a cell phone or other hand-held mobile device to talk, text, message, or look something up on the internet. If you have suffered injury because another driver was using a cell phone, a Coweta County auto accident lawyer can help you hold that driver responsible for their actions.
Like most states, Georgia has enacted laws regarding texting and other cell phone usage while driving. The strictness of the law depends on what kind of driver is involved, and some drivers may be subject to federal laws, as well. For example, some laws include the following:
- The state of Georgia bans every driver from texting or messaging in any fashion on a hand-held mobile device while driving.
- The state of Georgia prohibits teenage drivers with restricted licenses from ever using a cell phone while driving, whether it is to text, talk, message, or other non-emergency reason.
- Federal law prohibits all commercial drivers from using any type of hand-held device to talk, text, or message while driving. Commercial drivers may use hands-free systems to talk, but may not dial any number that requires more than one button and may never reach for a device.
Contact a Coweta County auto accident attorney for a free consultation
Georgia law by illegally using a handheld mobile device while, chances are good that a court will find that driver to be automatically negligent and liable for any injuries or damages that resulted. However, even if a driver did not receive a citation or did not necessarily break the law, there may still be strong evidence that a driver talking on a cell phone was acting negligently in the traffic conditions. If you have been injured by a distracted driver, an experienced auto accident attorney can help you receive the compensation you deserve for your losses. Do not hesitate to call Shane Smith Law today at (980) 246-2656 to schedule your free initial consultation.