A closer look: What’s legal, what’s not in Georgia’s distracted driving law?

ALLOWED

■ Speaking or texting while using hands-free technology

■ Using a GPS system or mapping app

■ Wearing and using a smart watch

■ Using an earpiece to talk on the phone

■ Using radios, CB radios, CB radio hybrids, commercial two-way radios, subscriptionbased emergency communication devices, prescribed medical devices, amateur or ham radios and “in-vehicle security, navigation or remote diagnostics” systems

■ There are circumstances where you can handle an electronic device while driving: Reporting a traffic accident, medical emergency, fire, a crime or delinquent act or a hazardous road condition. You can also use your hands if you’re lawfully parked (not at a stoplight – “lawfully” means off or beside the road in an area open to parking).

■ Some people are exempt from the handsfree requirement if they’re performing official duties: police, firefighters, emergency medical personnel, ambulance drivers, other first responders and utility employees or contractors responding to a utility emergency.

PROHIBITED

■ Holding or supporting, with any part of the body, a wireless telecommunications device or stand-alone electronic device

■ Writing, sending or reading any text-based communication, including a text message, instant message, e-mail or internet data while holding your device

■ Watching a video or movie other than watching data related to the navigation of your vehicle (i.e., your mapping app or GPS screen)

■ Recording a video

State Rep. John Carson, R-Marietta, sponsored the HandsFree Georgia Act. He says the law will prompt a culture change in attitudes toward using electronic devices. “The law is not perfect because it’s made by imperfect people,” he said.

HYOSUB SHIN / HSHIN@AJC.COM Hands-free technology is permitted among the general public. Emergency personnel can use their hands if they’re performing official duties.