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There is now a CONTENT FREEZE for Mercury while we switch to a new platform. It began on Friday, March 10 at 6pm and will end on Wednesday, March 15 at noon. No new content can be created during this time, but all material in the system as of the beginning of the freeze will be migrated to the new platform, including users and groups. Functionally the new site is identical to the old one. webteam@gatech.edu
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Atlanta, GA | Posted: June 19, 2018
lance.wallace@comm.gatech.edu
Summary Sentence:
New state law will be enforced on the Georgia Tech campus.
Full Summary:
Historic number of highway fatalities in 2017 drove legislature to act on distracted driving.
Distracted Driving LawOn May 2, Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal signed the Hands-Free Georgia Act implementing stricter rules on the use of technology while driving. Taking effect July 1, the Hands-Free Georgia Act will make it illegal to do any of the following while operating a vehicle:
The new law will still allow using a global positioning system (GPS) device, as well as sending and receiving calls and messages via hands-free operating systems. The purpose of the Hands-Free Georgia Act is to attempt to reduce the number of deaths occurring on Georgia roadways, which rose to a historic high of 1,550 fatalities last year.
Based on the definition of a highway in the law’s provisions, the Hands-Free Georgia Act also applies to Georgia Tech’s roadways. All students, faculty, and staff on campus must abide by this law while on campus.
The penalties for violating the Hands-Free Georgia Act are an initial fine of $50 with fines of $100 and $150 for subsequent violations.
“Prohibiting the use of technology while driving both on and off campus will greatly reduce the number of accidents caused by distracted driving,” said GTPD Police Chief Rob Connolly. “It’s important for our community to take note before the law goes into effect and we begin enforcing the new regulations.”
In addition to staying safe while operating a vehicle, GTPD reminds the campus community to focus on security by reporting any criminal incidents by calling 404-894-2500 or by emailing crimetips@police.gatech.edu. GTPD also offers the following safety reminders:
