Understanding Georgia’s Hands-Free Law and Its Impact on Atlanta Car Accidents

In 2018, Georgia implemented the Hands-Free Law in an effort to curb distracted driving and reduce the number of accidents on its roads. For residents of Atlanta, where traffic congestion and high-speed driving are everyday realities, this law has significant implications. But how does Georgia’s Hands-Free Law affect car accident cases in Atlanta? And what role does a car accident lawyer in Atlanta play in helping injured victims navigate these complexities?

Overview of Georgia’s Hands-Free Law

Georgia’s Hands-Free Law prohibits drivers from holding or supporting a phone or other electronic devices with any part of their body while driving. This means that drivers cannot use their hands to make calls, text, or use apps unless they are using hands-free technology, such as Bluetooth or voice commands. The law also restricts drivers from watching or recording videos unless it’s for navigation purposes.

The intent behind this law is clear: to reduce distractions and, by extension, the number of accidents on Georgia’s roads. Distracted driving is a leading cause of car accidents, and by enforcing stricter rules, Georgia aims to make its roads safer for everyone.

The Impact of the Hands-Free Law on Car Accident Cases in Atlanta

The introduction of the Hands-Free Law has had a noticeable impact on car accident cases in Atlanta. Here’s how:

1. Reduction in Distracted Driving Accidents: Since the law’s implementation, there has been a reported decrease in the number of accidents attributed to distracted driving. However, accidents still happen, and when they do, the question of whether a driver was in violation of the Hands-Free Law becomes a crucial factor in determining liability.
2. Evidence in Legal Cases: In car accident cases, proving negligence is key to securing compensation for the injured party. If a driver involved in an accident is found to have been using their phone in violation of the Hands-Free Law, this can serve as strong evidence of negligence. A car accident lawyer in Atlanta can help gather this evidence by obtaining phone records, surveillance footage, or witness statements that demonstrate the driver was distracted at the time of the accident.
3. Insurance Implications: Insurance companies are aware of the Hands-Free Law and may use it to determine fault in an accident. If a driver is found to have been violating the law, it can significantly impact the outcome of an insurance claim. This is where having an experienced car accident lawyer becomes invaluable, as they can negotiate with the insurance company to ensure that the injured party receives fair compensation, even in the face of complex legal arguments.
4. Increased Accountability: The Hands-Free Law has raised awareness about the dangers of distracted driving, leading to greater accountability among drivers. However, despite the law, some drivers continue to use their phones while driving, leading to accidents. When this happens, a car accident lawyer in Atlanta can help hold the negligent party accountable, ensuring that they are responsible for the harm they have caused.

How a Car Accident Lawyer in Atlanta Can Help Injured Victims

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with injuries, medical bills, and insurance claims. A car accident lawyer in Atlanta can provide invaluable support in several ways:

1. Investigating the Accident: A skilled lawyer will thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident, including whether the Hands-Free Law was violated. This can involve reviewing police reports, interviewing witnesses, and examining any available video evidence.
2. Proving Liability: Establishing that the other driver was at fault is crucial for securing compensation. A lawyer can help prove liability by demonstrating that the other driver was distracted and in violation of the Hands-Free Law at the time of the accident.
3. Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, but a car accident lawyer knows the tactics they use. With their experience, they can negotiate on behalf of the injured party to ensure a fair settlement is reached.
4. Pursuing Legal Action: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, a lawyer can take the case to court, advocating for the injured party’s rights and pursuing fair compensation possible.

Reach Out to a Car Accident Attorney in Atlanta at Bey & Associates

Georgia’s Hands-Free Law has undoubtedly made Atlanta’s roads safer, but it has also added a layer of complexity to car accident cases. For those injured in an accident where distracted driving is suspected, working with a knowledgeable car accident lawyer in Atlanta is crucial. At Bey & Associates, our team is dedicated to helping injured victims navigate the legal process, ensuring that they receive justice and fair compensation.

For more information on Georgia’s Hands-Free Law, you can visit the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety and the National Safety Council to learn more about the dangers of distracted driving.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Atlanta, don’t hesitate to contact Bey & Associates for a consultation. We’re here to help you every step of the way.