In recent years, one of the primary causes of auto accidents with injuries and fatalities in Georgia has been distracted driving. To address this issue, lawmakers and law enforcement were aggressive in regulating driver behaviors behind the wheel. Specifically, that resulted in some of the toughest laws in the nation regarding handheld devices. Still, some are trying to find ways in which drivers can use their devices in certain circumstances without fear of being cited. If an accident happened because of a distracted driver, this could be a crucial aspect of determining what path to take in the aftermath.
Law that would have allowed cellphone use at stoplights fails
To loosen restrictions on cellphone use when behind the wheel, the Georgia Senate considered a bill that would have allowed drivers to use their handheld device if they were stopped at a red light. Despite the bill being rejected, it is indicative of the ongoing challenge regarding drivers being tempted to use their cellphones and the remaining danger of auto accidents regardless of the law.
Had the bill passed, drivers would have been allowed to use their phone once the vehicle had come to a full stop at a light or when it was on the side of the road. They would not have been allowed to have the phone in their hand or in their lap, but mounted on the dashboard or windshield. The law was opposed by various entities including law enforcement, insurance companies and safety advocates. Those supporting the bill believed that drivers were being targeted for activities that did not significantly raise the risk of an auto accident if they are stopped and it diverted law enforcement attention from areas where it would have been better suited to improve safety.
A full investigation must be pursued to determine the cause of an auto accident
In Georgia, drivers are generally prohibited from even touching their cellphone when driving. Despite that and the proposed change, many drivers cannot resist the temptation of using their device behind the wheel. This can lead to car accidents. Anyone on the road is in jeopardy of being hurt or losing their lives in a distracted driving crash. Other drivers, passengers, motorcyclists, bicyclists and pedestrians are at risk. With a crash, there can be exorbitant medical costs, lost wages, long-term damage and the problems that accompany the unexpected loss of a loved one. To explore all the options to recover compensation and discover how the accident occurred, it is useful to have professional advice from the start.