13-03-2025
Georgia has unique driving laws. Here are 5 traffic rules to know to avoid tickets
You have your ID, you may have your Peach Pass, but before driving through Georgia, you may want to make sure you're up-to-date on the laws.
Some of them are obvious, while others are less so. Here's a look at 5 you may not know about:
If you want to listen to music on your drive, either use the car speakers or just play it aloud on your phone's speakers. Georgia Code § 40-6-250 says no driver will wear a headset or headphones unless it's for communication purposes.
Rechtman & Spevak attorneys say on their website that a violation will mean a $50 fine and one point on your license for a first offense, $100 and two points for a second offense, and $150 fine plus three points for third and subsequent offenses.
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Laws against drinking and driving don't just apply to conventional vehicles like cars, trucks, and vans. Under state law, bicycles are also considered a vehicle and, as such, you can get a DUI for riding a bicycle while under the influence.
Georgia Code § 40-6-391 says first and second convictions result in misdemeanors, a third conviction is a "high and aggravated misdemeanor," and a fourth and subsequent convictions can be considered felonies. These all have various penalties.
While there are differing opinions about the safety (or lack thereof) in driving barefoot, there is no law that expressly prohibits it, according to multiple Georgia law firms.
If you choose to do so, Hasner Law recommends keeping your shoes away from the driver's side so they don't get caught under the pedals and to be mindful of your driving habits. The law firm goes on to say you could still get into trouble for not wearing shoes if you're in an accident.
While speeding is obviously dangerous, it's also a bad idea to drive too slow. Georgia Code § 40-6-184 says drivers are not allowed to travel at such slow speeds they are impeding the normal flow of traffic unless it's necessary for safety reasons.
Kohn & Yager Attorneys say on their website that a violation of the "Slow Poke" law can lead to a fine of up to $1,000, three points on your license, increased car insurance premiums, and a potential license suspension.
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Most people know it's illegal to be on your phone while driving, but will try to answer texts at a red light. Don't! Georgia Code § 40-6-241 prohibits a driver from ever holding their phone or even keeping it propped on their knee. It also specifically prohibits writing or reading messages as well as watching movies/videos. Exceptions include when the car is parked and when reporting an incident.
Each violation of this article constitutes a separate offense. Violators will be guilty of a misdemeanor and fined up to $50 for the first conviction, up to $100 for the second, and up to $150 for third and subsequent convictions.
Miguel Legoas is a Deep South Connect Team Reporter for Gannett/USA Today. Find him on X and Instagram @miguelegoas and email at mlegoas@
This article originally appeared on Savannah Morning News: 5 unusual Georgia traffic laws, policies you should know to avoid tickets
