Governor Signs Texting and Cell Phone Bill into Law 

Too many accidents are being attributed to texting while driving. Our Georgia lawmakers have done something about it.

 

Governor Perdue has signed two new distracted driving bills into law, Senate Bill 360 and House Bill 23.

Senate Bill 360 is the Caleb Sorohan Act and prohibits individuals from using wireless telecommunications devices for writing, sending or receiving text messages while operating a motor vehicle.

Specifically the new law states: "No person shall operate a motor vehicle on any public road or highway of this state while using a wireless telecommunications device to write, send, or read any text based communication, including but not limited to a text message, instant message, electronic mail, or Internet data."

The fine for offenders will be $150 and one point on their driver license.  The new law goes into effect on July 1st, 2010.

House Bill 23 was also signed into law by Governor Perdue. This new law prohibits drivers under the age of 18 from using a wireless communication device.

Specifically the new law states: "prohibits use of wireless telecommunications devices by persons under 18 years of age with an instruction permit or Class D license while operating a motor vehicle"

Like the other new driving law, the fine for offenders will be $150 and one point on their driver license.  The new law goes into effect on July 1st, 2010.

The only other current Cell Phone law in the State of Georgia as of January 2010 is the School Bus Driver Law which states:

"The use of a mobile, wireless, or cellular phone or other communication device by a school bus driver while there are one or more children or other passengers on the school bus shall be prohibited."

It is unfortunate that common sense has not prevailed. The distraction caused by texting and cellular phones is well documented. Stop texting while driving - it is against the law.