Robert Hammers | January 27, 2026 | Georgia Law
Many Georgia drivers still aren’t fully aware of what the state’s “Hands-Free Law” actually prohibits. Enacted to curb distracted driving, the statute makes it illegal to use a phone with your hands while driving. This means that things like checking a text message or other brief contact with your phone could lead to a fine and points on your license.
Although the law might seem strict, it reflects the danger distracted driving poses on Georgia roads. Learning about the details of the Hands-Free Law can help you stay safe and protect your legal rights if you’re ever in an accident. Reach out to our Atlanta car accident attorneys for further assistance.
What the Georgia Hands-Free Law Says
Georgia’s Hands-Free Law took effect on July 1, 2018, under House Bill 673. It applies to every driver operating a vehicle on Georgia roads. The core rule is simple: you cannot physically hold or support a phone or electronic device with any part of your body while driving.
The law makes it illegal to:
- Hold a phone in your hand or touch it while driving
- Read or send text messages, emails, and social media posts
- Watch and record videos
- Use your phone for internet browsing and gaming
- Reach for a device if doing so requires you to leave your seat or remove your seatbelt
Drivers can use hands-free technology to make and receive calls, but only so long as the device is mounted and controlled without hand contact.
Penalties for Violating the Hands-Free Law
Georgia takes violations of the Hands-Free Law seriously.
The penalties are as follows:
- First offense: $50 fine and one point on your license
- Second offense: $100 fine and two points on your license
- Third and subsequent offenses: $150 fine and three points on your license
The fines for the second and third offenses apply only if they occur within 24 months of the first conviction. Also, a first-time offender can have the charge dropped if they show the court they have obtained a hands-free capable device.
How Violations Can Impact Car Accident Claims
If you’re involved in a crash while breaking the Hands-Free Law, it can significantly affect your personal injury case. Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence standard, which means that your compensation can be reduced if you’re partly at fault for the accident. If you’re found to be 50% or more responsible, you typically cannot recover damages at all.
For example, if another driver hits you while you are also using your phone, the insurance company might argue that you share some of the blame for the crash. Proving that you were obeying the Hands-Free Law could help strengthen your position in an insurance claim or lawsuit.
What to Do After a Distracted Driving Accident
Being hit by a distracted driver can leave you shaken, but your actions after the accident can make a major difference in your case.
Take the following steps to help protect yourself:
- Call 911 to report the crash and ensure that officers document the scene
- Exchange information with all drivers involved
- Take photos and videos of the accident and your damages
- Seek immediate medical treatment, whether or not you have an obvious injury
- Avoid discussing fault or apologizing at the scene
- Contact an experienced Georgia car accident lawyer before speaking with insurers
Getting legal advice early on in the process gives your claim the best chances of succeeding.
Schedule a Free Initial Consultation with an Experienced Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer at Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers
Georgia’s Hands-Free Law is designed to save lives, as just one moment of distraction can potentially cause a devastating car accident. Using a device that lets you use your phone without holding it can help you comply with the law and keep everyone on the road safer.
If you were injured by a distracted driver, you may be entitled to compensation. Reach out to a trusted Atlanta car accident attorney at Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation to discuss your rights.
We proudly serve clients throughout Fulton County and the greater Atlanta metro area in Georgia, with offices in Atlanta, Sandy Springs, Lawrenceville, Smyrna, Roswell, and Mableton.
Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Atlanta
201 Joseph E Lowery Blvd NW Suite 312, Atlanta, GA 30314
Open 24/7
(770) 900-9000
Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Sandy Springs
5555 Glenridge Con, Suite 975, Sandy Springs, GA 30342
Open 24/7
(678) 990-7024
Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Lawrenceville
265 Culver St S. Suite A. Lawrenceville, GA 30046
Open 24/7
(678) 626-5067
Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Mableton
5701 Mableton Pkwy SW Suite 108, Mableton, GA 30126
Open 24/7
(706) 480-5487
Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Smyrna
2400 Herodian Way Ste#220, Smyrna, GA 30080
Open 24/7
(678) 922-4497
Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Roswell
110 Mansell Cir #111, Roswell, GA 30075
Open 24/7
(678) 582-8466
About Robert M. Hammers Jr.
Robert M. Hammers, Jr. is the managing partner at Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers in Atlanta. Committed to justice, he represents individuals harmed by negligence, focusing on personal injury litigation.
With over 50 jury trials and $100 million in verdicts and settlements, Rob is known for his strategic thinking and dedication to achieving the best outcomes for his clients. He serves on the Executive Committee for the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association, the American Association for Justice Board of Governors, and the Plaintiff Leadership Committee in complex multi-district and toxic tort litigations, where he advocates for injured individuals and shapes legal strategies.
Robert is also recognized on Justia for his excellence in personal injury law, further highlighting his reputation and commitment to client advocacy.
