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Statewide crackdown on distracted driving happening this week in Georgia

A driver apparently uses a phone while driving as Sgt. First Class Chris Stallings monitors motorists in downtown Atlanta on Thursday. In one week, police officers across the state will begin enforcing the Hands-Free Georgia Act.

ATLANTA (AP) — In an effort to get drivers to keep their eyes on the road while they’re behind the wheel, law enforcement officers in Georgia plan to participate in a statewide crackdown on distracted driving.

The Governor’s Office of Highway Safety says state and local officers are joining a week-long nationwide enforcement effort that begins Monday, Oct. 5.

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Cellphone use is one of the biggest distractions for drivers. But other distractions include talking to passengers, eating, fiddling with the radio and grooming.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says distracted driving crashes killed 2,841 people and injured about 400,000 more in the U.S. in 2018.

Distracted Driving Awareness Week starts tomorrow, but we can tell you right now that the text you want to send while behind the wheel just isn't worth it. #UdriveUtextUpay #headsupgeorgia

Posted by Georgia GOHS on Sunday, October 4, 2020