Yes, drivers who cause motor vehicle crashes because they were texting will face consequences. Drivers who cause accidents because they are sending or reading text messages while driving will receive citations. In Georgia, the fine for texting and driving is $150. But that may not be all. Not only will a driver who has been texting at the wheel have to pay this fee, he or she may also have to serve jail time, depending on the seriousness of the accident.
For instance, if a driver caused a fatal crash because he or she was texting while driving, the case can end up being tried before a judge and jury. Many juries have found drivers guilty of motor vehicle homicide due to texting, and judges have handed out jail sentences and have stripped drivers of their licenses following fatal texting-related crashes. Some distracted drivers have even received manslaughter charges – ending up with criminal records.
Because texting while driving penalties are still relatively new things, you will probably see the law and penalties evolve over time. For the present, these are the possible penalties for distracted drivers who cause Atlanta auto accidents due to sending or receiving texts while driving.
In addition, drivers who cause these types of accidents are accountable for your personal injuries and property damages. If you need help holding a distracted driver liable for your injuries and losses following a Georgia car crash, call an experienced Atlanta injury lawyer at Shane Smith Law at (980) 246-2656 today for a free consultation.