Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents across the United States, and Georgia is no exception. Despite statewide efforts to curb distractions behind the wheel, behaviors like texting, eating, or interacting with in-car technology continue to endanger drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. With over 300,000 car crashes reported annually in Georgia, many of these incidents can be traced back to a distracted driver. At Burnside Law Firm, we’ve seen firsthand how these preventable accidents affect our community in Augusta and throughout the state.
How Big of a Problem Is Distracted Driving in Georgia?
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High Distraction Rates:
In Georgia, nearly 16% of drivers admit to engaging in distractions like texting or eating while driving, a figure significantly above the national average.
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Rising Incidents:
According to the Georgia Department of Driver Services, distracted driving has been a factor in over 100,000 crashes annually in recent years.
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Youth at Risk:
Young drivers under the age of 25 are disproportionately involved in distraction-related crashes, particularly in urban areas like Augusta.
These statistics highlight the pervasive nature of distracted driving and its impact on Georgia’s roads.
Georgia’s Hands-Free Law
To address this growing issue, Georgia enacted the Hands-Free Georgia Act in 2018. The law prohibits drivers from holding or supporting any wireless device while operating a vehicle. Violators face fines and points on their driver’s licenses.
The introduction of this law led to a temporary decline in distraction-related accidents, but enforcement challenges and persistent habits have kept distracted driving a leading cause of accidents in Georgia.
Common Types of Driver Distractions
Distractions can be visual, manual, or cognitive. Here are some of the most common behaviors leading to accidents:
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Texting and Phone Use:
Texting while driving increases the likelihood of a crash by 23 times, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
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Eating or Drinking:
Even a momentary lapse in focus to manage food or drinks can result in serious accidents.
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Adjusting In-Car Technology:
GPS devices and infotainment systems can divert attention for longer than drivers realize.
Augusta’s high-traffic areas, like Washington Road and Bobby Jones Expressway, are particularly prone to accidents caused by distracted driving due to the combination of traffic congestion and driver inattention.
Using Evidence to Prove Distracted Driving
When distracted driving causes an accident, proving the other driver’s negligence can be critical to securing compensation. At Burnside Law Firm, we use a variety of evidence to support our clients’ claims, including:
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Phone Records:
These can reveal if a driver was texting or on a call at the time of the accident.
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Eyewitness Testimony:
Passengers, pedestrians, or other drivers can provide statements about the at-fault driver’s behavior.
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Traffic and Surveillance Footage:
Cameras near busy intersections or on commercial vehicles may capture evidence of distracted driving.
This evidence can be pivotal when negotiating with insurance companies or presenting your case in court.
The Legal Consequences of Distracted Driving
Georgia’s comparative negligence system means that if you’re injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver, you can seek compensation even if you share some fault. However, your recovery amount will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re found 20% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by 20%.
Preventing Distracted Driving in Georgia
While laws like the Hands-Free Georgia Act aim to deter distractions, individual responsibility is key to reducing accidents. Here’s how you can stay focused behind the wheel:
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Use Hands-Free Technology:
Ensure your phone is set to “Do Not Disturb” mode while driving.
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Plan Ahead:
Program your GPS and music before hitting the road.
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Stay Alert:
Avoid multitasking and keep your full attention on the road.
By adopting these practices, drivers in Augusta and throughout Georgia can help create safer roads for everyone.
FAQs About Distracted Driving in Georgia
Q: Can phone records be used as evidence in Georgia car accident cases?
A: Yes, attorneys can subpoena phone records to determine if a driver was using their phone at the time of the accident.
Q: What are the penalties for violating Georgia’s Hands-Free Law?
A: First-time violators face a $50 fine and one point on their license, with penalties increasing for subsequent offenses.
Q: How common are distraction-related accidents in Augusta?
A: Distracted driving is a significant factor in car accidents across Richmond County, particularly in high-traffic areas and during peak travel times.
Choose Burnside Law Firm to Handle Your Distracted Driving Case
If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver, Burnside Law Firm is here to help. With over 50 years of collective experience and a reputation for excellence in Augusta, we know how to build strong cases and secure fair compensation. Contact us today for a consultation and let us fight for your rights.
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