The Cooper Firm

In Georgia, Fayette State Representative Matt Ramsey is proposing to make it illegal for teenagers under the age of 18 to talk, text or e-mail and instant messaging on their cell phones while driving.  If approved by the legislature, violators would face up to a $175 fine on their first offense and $400 fine the second and subsequent offenses.  If they are determined to be at fault, teens under 18 who get into an auto accident while using a cell phone will face a doubling of their fine and 90-days license suspension.  Their second offense will evoke a six-month suspension. 

According to the AAA, drivers distraction due to phone and text abuse is growing at an alarming rate.  A new study reports that 66% of 18 to 24 year olds admit to texting while driving.  Currently, many states are considering passing or are passing bans on texting or cell phone use while driving. 
       
The proposed bill includes several exceptions under which someone under 18 could use a cell phone while driving:
   
    -    To report illegal activity;
    -    To summon medical or emergency help;
    -    To prevent injury to a person or property; or
    -    To navigate using a global positioning system. 

Talking or texting while driving will lead to a 1-point assessment against a driver’s points leading towards license suspension. 

Ramsey truly believes the law would save lives, now he has to sell it to his fellow legislators.  Co-sponsors to this legislation are Tom Rice, chairman of the House Motor Vehicle Committee and Edward Lindsey, vice chairman of the Judiciary Committee. 

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