Since Georgia’s new texting law went into effect on July 1, less than 25 tickets have been issued.  Some say it’s because the law made drivers realize the dangers of texting while driving.  It could also be because in the first month, only warnings were given. 

According to the state highway patrol, no tickets were handed out in Rincon, Port Wentworth, or Savannah.  A spokesman for the agency said some troopers find it difficult to enforce such a law.

“When the officers are out in an unmarked patrol car – most of the time it’s very hard for them to enforce that law because the drivers are paying attention to the officers – which is a good thing – it means they’re paying attention to their surroundings and not on the phone,” says Capt. Matt Libby of the Port Wentworth Police Department.

Georgia State Trooper Christopher Hinkle says he has seen a change in people’s driving behavior in the last month.

“In general there’s been a great decrease of just what I’ve seen personally of using phones while driving,” said Hinkle.

Getting caught texting or emailing while driving in Georgia results in a $150 fine and adds one point to a driver’s license.

Source:  WSAV, August 17, 2010; AJC, August 17, 2010

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