TIFTON — Beginning July 1 drivers in Georgia will have to put the phone down while driving.

The Hands-Free Georgia Act was recently signed into law by Governor Nathan Deal and restricts drivers from operating a wireless communication device or stand-alone electronic device while driving.

According to the law, a wireless communication device is defined as a cell phone, text-messaging device, PDA, computer or GPS. A stand-alone electronic device is defined as a device other than a wireless communication device which stores audio or video files to be retrieved on demand by a user.

This law prohibits drivers from making calls, texting, watching or recording videos while behind the wheel.

Drivers will not be allowed to hold any such devices in their hand or “physically hold or support with any part of his or her body,” which includes having the device on their lap. Drivers may, however, still use their phone provided they do so using voice commands via an earpiece, headphone device or device worn on the wrist, such as a smart watch.

The only exceptions for most drivers to this law are when reporting an emergency situation, such as an accident, medical emergency, crime or a road condition “which causes an immediate and serious traffic or safety hazard.”

Public safety personnel, such as law enforcement officers, firefighters and ambulance drivers are exempt from the law while performing their official duties, and utility workers are exempt if they are responding to a utility emergency, such as power lines being down.

Commercial vehicle drivers are prohibited from using more than a single button to make or end a call or from reaching for a device in such a way that they are no longer seated or wearing a safety belt.

Nowhere in the language of the bill does it say that food and drink is prohibited from being held by the driver.

The first conviction brings a fine of up to $50. The second conviction within 24 months brings a fine of up to $100, and a third within 24 months brings a fine of up to $150.

Tift County Sheriff Gene Scarbrough said he was glad to see the bill signed into law.

“Distracted driving as become more dangerous than drunk and drugged (driving),” Scarbrough said. “You cannot go anywhere without seeing drivers consumed by their mobile devices. I’ve heard remarks where some have said that it’s ok if you can multi task. That is the dumbest remark I have ever heard regarding driving and using mobile devices. Driving is a full time job and should be regarded as just that.

“I’m sure there will be a period of issuing warnings after the law becomes effective on July 1. After the warning phase we will enforce the law as it applies. Hopefully everyone will get on board and abide by this new law and help us all to save lives and serious injuries.”