Georgia Driver's Handbook 2026

SECTION 5: TRAFFIC LAWS ---- trolled by a traffic control light You may proceed only after making a complete stop, yielding to all traffic and pedestrians, and making the determination that you can safely complete the tum; • Unless a sign posted at that intersection pro hibits doing so, it is permissible to make a "left turn on red" from the left lane of a one- way street onto a one-way street on which the traffic moves toward the driver's left. You may proceed only after making a complete stop, yielding to all traffic and stopping for pedestrians, and making the determination that you can safely complete the turn; • When a school bus is preparing to stop to load or unload children, the driver of the bus will activate flashing yellow lights. When these flashing yellow lights are activated, all drivers approaching the school bus should slow down and be prepared to stop. All drivers should pay special attention to chil dren who may be walking along or crossing the roadway. Once the flashing lights have turned red and the stop signs have extended from the side of the bus, it is unlawful for any vehicle to pass the stopped school bus while it is loading or unloading passengers. On a highway divided by a median, cars traveling on the opposite side from the stopped school bus are not required to top, however drivers should remain attentive for children walking along or crossing the roadway . Passing How To Pass On A Two-Lane Road • Wait for a passing zone to begin. A passing zone is indicated by striped lines to the right of the center line of the roadway. If the line nearest your vehicle is solid, you are not in a passing zone. Look ahead along the roadway to determine the length of the passing zone and if there is traffic approaching from the o posite direction.You must have sufficient time and space to execute your passing maneuver and return your vehicle completely to the right lane before the passing zone ends, before entering an intersection, and before oncom ing traffic is within 200 feet of your vehicle; • Before leaving your lane to begin passing, check your rear view and side mirrors, and turn your head and look back to check your THE ��MOVE OVER'' LAW "blind spot." Be certain that no one is p ing you; • Activate your left turn signal as you begin passing; • Pass on the left and do not return to the right lane until your vehicle is safely clear of the overtaken vehicle. Wait until you can see the car you have just passed in your rear view mirror; • Activate your right turn signal before return ing to the right lane. Be sure to tum your signal off once you have returned to the right lane. Passing is prohibited on two-lane roads: • In area marked by a solid yellow line on the right of the center line, or a "Do ot Pass" sign, or double yellow lines; • Within 100 feet of a railroad crossing; • Within 100 feet of a bridge, viaduct or tunnel; • When a car approaching from t he oppo ite direction makes passing unsafe or will be All 50 States have 'Move OVer" laws to protect law enforcement officers and other workers stopped on our nation's roads. Georgia's "Move OVer" Law helps ensure highway safety for motorists, emergency personnel, active sanitation workers, and utility service wori<ers. when their vehicles are stopped on the side of the roadway. This law was created to reduce the number of injuries and fatalities to police officers, paramedics, firefighters, wrecker operators, and highway construction workers by maintaining an open buffer lane between passing highway traffic and authorized roadside emergency vehicles displaying flashing yellow, amber, white, red, or blue lights. It was amended to include active sanitation workers and utility service workers who are utilizing traffic cones and/or vehicles displaying flashing lights. , .... In Georgia, this law requires motorists to: • Move over to the next lane if safely possible. • If unable to move over, then slow down below the speed limit and be prepared to stop. This law applies to any emergency, sanitation, or utility service vehicle parked on the shoulder of the roadway. Why was the "Move Over" Law Passed? • It saves lives. The "Move Over'' Law helps maintain traffic flow and protect the safety of motorists, emergency personnel, active sanitation workers, and utility service workers. • Vehicles parked on the side of the roadway are vulnerable to crashes even when emergency lights are flashing. • More police officers are killed by traffic crashes than in any other line-of-duty cause of death. More than one fourth of those killed are struck by passing vehicles while they work outside their patrol cars. How does the "Move Over" Law make a difference? • Thirty percent of all crashes occur as the result of another crash. • Providing a buffer lane for these vehicles when parked on the roadway shoulder actually reduces the risk of another crash. • When the required clearance is given to these types of vehicles, the margin of safety is increased, not only for public safety, emergency personnel, active sanitation workers, and utility service workers, but for motorists and their passengers as well. It's the Law! • Violations can result in a fine of no more than $500 for the first offense. • The "Move Over" Law is another reason to slow down on the highways and interstates. 18 f l ► Safely change lanes when approaching any emergency, sanitation, or utility service vehicle. --sECTION 5: TRAFFIC LAWS within 200 feet of your vehicle prior to the completion of a passing maneuver; • On a hill or curve where it is not possible to see oncoming vehicles which might be close enough to be a hazard; • On the shoulder of the road; • When a school bus is stopped to load or un load passengers. Passing is Permitted When: • Lawfully overtaking and passing another vehicle going in the same direction; • An obstruction makes it necessary to drive to the left of the center line, but only after yielding to oncoming traffic; • A roadway includes two or more marked lanes in the same direction; • A roadway with more than one lane is re stricted to one-way traffic. Upon a multi-lane, two way highway, you must never drive to the left of the center line except when au thorized to do so by traffic control signals or signs or when making a left turn into an alley, private road or driveway. Passing On The Right You may pass on the right of another vehicle which is making or about to make a left tum if there is sufficient μivement width k>r both }OU r vehicle and the vehicle making the left turn. You may also pass on the right when traveling on a multi-lane highway carrying two or more lanes of traffic in the same direction. When Someone Passes You When a driver behind you is overtaking your vehicle, be alert for any unsafe actions by the other driver. lt is considered courteous to reduce your speed slightly, making it easier for the other vehicle to pass you. It is unlawful to increase your speed before you have been passed completely by the overtaking vehicle. Passing Stopped Cars Whenever any vehicle is stopped to permit a pedestrian to cross the roadway at a marked crosswalk or at any unmarked crosswall< at an intersection, the driver of any other vehicle approaching from the rear shall not overtake and pass the stopped vehicle. When stopping to allow a pedestrian to cross in front of you, leave sufficient room between your vehicle and the crosswall< so that approaching traffic can see the entirety of the crosswalk. Slow down and prepare to stop if you are ap proaching an intersection where other vehicles are stopped, even though the traffic control de vices indicate they are authorized to proceed. If they are stopped because they are allowing a pedestrian to cross the roadway, their vehicle may block your view of the pedestrian. Passing Bicycles Motorists should approach bicycles with due caution and shall proceed as follows: (Violation is a misdemeanor punishable by a tine up to $250.00). Make a lane change into a lane not adjacent to the bicycle if possible in the existing road and traffic conditions OR If a lane change is impossible, prohibited by law, or unsafe, reduce the speed of the motor vehicle to a reasonable and proper speed for the traffic conditions, which speed shall be at least ten miles per hour less than the posted speed limit or 25 miles per hour, whichever is more and proceed around the bicycle with at least three feet between the vehicle and the bicycle at all times. Passing Motorcyclists A motorcyclist legally occupies the full width of a single lane when traveling. When passing a motorcyclist, a driver must pass in an adjacent lane. Drivers are not permitted to occupy the same lane as a motorcyclist while passing them. Weaving It is unlawful to weave from one lane of traf fic to another in order to move faster than the flow of traffic. A motorist may change lanes on a multi-lane highway and pass slower moving vehicles only when it is safe to do so. A driver's signaling to change lanes should be clearly in dicated so as to warn vehicles of the movement. Turn Signals and Making Turns Safely Turn movements by motor vehicles are regu lated by law,and failure to observe or comply is a violation. Drivers must know and understand the law in order to tum safely and avoid crashes. STOP RIGHT TURN A turn signal must be given whenever a tum is made to the right or the left You must give a continuous tum signal for an adequate distance to alert other drivers before turning. Never de cide to make a tum at the "last minute." Turning quickly or erratically can be dangerous to you and other drivers. Illegal Signals It is against the law to flash t um signals a s a courtesy or "do pass" signal to other drivers in the rear. How To Make A Right Turn • Using appropriate signals,and giving drivers ahead of and behind you adequate notice, activate your right turn signal; • Approach the intersection in the right lane, staying as close as practicable to the curb or edge of the roadway; • lf there is a bicycle lane on the road on which you are traveling,you must yield to bicyclists traveling straight through the intersection before making a right tum; • Make the tum in such a way as to end up in the right lane of the street into which you have turned and avoid entering any other lane of traffic. If there are multiple turning Janes on the street you are tuming from,com plete the turn so that your vehicle ends up in the corresponding lane on the street you are turning onto. How To Make A Left Turn • Using appropriate signals,and giving drivers ahead of and behind you adequate notice, activate your left turn signal; • Move into the far left lane of the direction in which you are traveling, or into the turning lane if one is provided; • Keep your wheels straight until you begin making the turn; • Yield the right-of-way to aJI vehicles, includ ing bicycles, which are approaching from the opposite direction,and pedestrians crossing either roadway; • When safe to do so,and when traffic signals/ signs permit, make your turn so that your ve hicle ends up in the lane closest to the center lane(s) in your direction of traffic on the street you tumed onto, or closest to the center Iine if there is no center lane; • lf there arc multiple turning lanes on the street you are turning from, complete the turn so that your vehicle ends up in the cor responding lane on the street you are tum ing onto; • Once you have entered an intersection to make a left tum, you cannot change lanes in the intersection; • You must stop and remain stopped for any pedestrians in the crosswalk of the road you are turning onto until they have cleared the lanes of traffic that you are traveling on. Watching for Pedestrians When Making Turns At most intersections where there is a pe destrian signal, the "Walle" signal of the cross ing street corresponds to the green light of the roadway you are traveling on. This means that when you are authorized to tum, pedestrians are authorized to cross the street onto which you are turning at the same time. Therefore, before making your tum, you must stop and remain stopped for any pedestrians in the crosswallc of the road onto which you wish to turn until they have cleared the lanes of traffic upon which you are traveling. .--- U-Turns Do not make a U-turn on a curve or near the top ofa hill iJ you cannot be seen by other driv er approaching from either direction. Do not make a U-tum where signs prohibit doing so. Making Tums on Multi-Lane Highways On a multi-lane, two-way highway, you must never drive to the left of the center line except when making a left tum. Iftraffi wntrol · gnals or igns are present, you may only complete the tum when authorized to do so by the traf fic c ontrol signalso r signs. W hen m aking l eft turns, you must always yield to oncoming traf fic, a nd w ait for pedestrians t o clear t he l anes of traffic, driveway, idewalk, or alley you a re turning into. StoppingJ Standing, and Partiing I t is against the law to park on a highway. If the vehicle is disabled, you should make every practical effort to park off the highway, leaving free passage and a clear view of your vehicle for 200 feet in each direction. Stopping, Standing or Parking is not permitted under the following conditions at any time: • On the street side of any parked vehicle; • On a sidewallc; • Within an intersection; • On a crosswallc; • Between a safety zone and the adjacent curb; • Alongside or opposite any street excavation or obstruction when stopping, standing, or parking would obstruct traffic; • Upon a bridge or overpass, or within a high way tunnel; • On any railroad tracks; • On a controlled access roadway; SECTION 5: TRAFFIC LAWS - • In the area between roadways on a divided highway, including crossovers; • At any place marked by a no-parking sign. Stopping, Standing or Parking is permit ted only momentarily to pick up or drop off passengers under the following conditions: • In front of a public or private driveway; • Within 15 feet of a fire hydrant; • Within 20 feet of a crosswallc at an intersec tion; • Within 30 feet of a stop sign, yield sign, or traffic control signal; • Within 20 feet of a fire station driveway; • Within 75 feet of the spot across the street from a fire station driveway; • Within 50 feet of a railroad crossing; • At any place where official signs prohibit standing. Steps to Parallel Parking When attempting to parallel park, drive past the parking space you wish to use and stop when you are approximately even with the car ahead of the pace (you should be approxi mately 2 feet from the other car-door to door). Wheel :A.li nment Parallel Parking Diagram KEEP AIGHJ; EXCEPT TO PASS The "Slow Poke" Law (House Bill 459) Slower drivers must move out of the passing lane (most left-hand lanes) and over to the right to allow faster-moving traffic to proceed. Regardless of the speed you are traveling, you must move from the lane when faster traffic is approaching. The only exceptions are: • When traffic conditions make it necessary to drive in the passing lane; • When inclement weather, obstructions, or hazards make it necessary to drive in the passing lane; • When compliance with a law of this state or with an official traffic control device makes it necessary to drive in the passing lane; IT'S THE LAW! • When your vehicle must be driven in the passing lane to exit or turn left; • When it is necessary to pay a toll or use a pass on toll highways; • Authorized emergency vehicles engaged in official duties; or • Vehicles engaged in highway maintenance and construction operations. 20 f l ► - SECTION 5: TRAFFIC LAWS • Turn your wheels sharply to the right and back slowly toward the car behind the space you wish to use; • As your front door passes the back bumper of the car ahead of the space you wish to use, quickly straighten your wheels and continue to back diagonally into the space in a straight line; • When your front bumper is completely clear of the car ahead of you, turn your wheels sharply to the left and back slowly toward the car behind you; • Stop before making contact with the car be hind you. Place the car in drive, tum your wheels sharply to the right and pull toward the center of the parking space; • Always give the appropriate tum signal prior to beginning your parking maneuver and when you exit from a parallel parking space. Backing Up • Before backing, check all sides of your vehicle to make sure it is safe to do so. You should turn your head and look over your right shoulder while backing; do not depend on your mirrors; • For buses and large vehicles, the driver should use all mirrors and utilize a reliable person to observe and direct while backing the vehicle. Traveling Speed Super Speeder Any driver convicted of speeding 75 mph or more on a two-Jane road or 8.5 miles per how· or more on any road in Georgia, will be assessed a $200 state fee. The state fee will be in addition to any local fines imposed in the jurisdiction where the speeding offense occurs. Failure to pay the tatc fee on time will result in a license suspension and additional $50 reinstatement fee. Speed Limits Maximum traveling peecls are determinecl based on the following general rules in Georgia unless otherwise posted: • 30 miles per hour in any urban or re idential district; • 35 miles per hour on an unpaved county road; • 70 miles per hour on a rural interstate; • 65 miles per hour on an urban interstate or on a multi-lane dividecl highway; • 55 miles per hour in all other areas. These are only general rules. Local jurisdic tions, the Georgia Department of Transporta tion, or th Georgia Department of Public Safety may deem it necessary to adjust speed limits based on local conditions, whether temporary or permanent. Always watch for speed limit signs while driving . Some areas, such as school zones or construction zones may be posted for lower maximum speed limits at certain times of the day or for a short period of time. It is important to pay close attention to road signs while driving to ensure that when you approach a speed zone, whether temporary or permanent, you will have sufficient time to adjust your speecl accordingly. Driving Too Slowly Drivers are prohibited from driving a mo tor vehicle at such a slow speed as to impede the normal and reasonable movement of traf fic e xcept w hen a r ecluced s peecl i s necessary for safe operation. On road with two or more lanes, drivers cannot continue to operate a mo tor vehicle in the passing lane if that driver is being overtaken by a motor vehicle traveling at a higher rate of speed from behind. Penalties include fine u p t o $1000 a nd/or 3 p oints o n the driving record. When there are two or more lanes for traffic moving in the same direction, slower vehicles should use the right lane except when pas ing or making a left turn. Driving too slowly is dangerous because it impecles the regular flow of traffic. Minimum speed limits are posted on certain highways. rf you are unable to drive at the minimum speed, you should seek an al ternate route. Railroad Crossings You must always stop within 50 feet, but not less than 15 feet, from the nearest rail of a rail road crossing when any of the following apply: • The signal is flashing; • The crossing gates are lowered; • A flagman is giving a signal; • A train is approaching so closely as to create an immediate hazard; • A train gives a warning signal and is an im mediate hazard due to its speed or nearness to the crossing; • A stop sign is posted. Under no circumstances should a motorist drive through, around or under any crossing gate while the gate i lowerecl. After topping, remain stopped until all tracks are clear, all railroad cro ing warning signals stop flash ing, the crossing gates are raised, and it is safe to proceed. 7 Steps for Safety at Highway Rail Grade Crossings: 1. Approach with care. 2. Prepare to stop. 3. Look both ways and listen carefully. 4. If it won't fit, don't commit. Do not enter a cro sing unless you can drive completely through without stopping! 5. Look again. 6. Cross tracks with care. Z Keep going once you start. U your vehicle tall on the tra ks, do the following: • Get out immediately • Move away • Locate Emergency notification Systems (ENS) sign containing emergency contact information. • Call for help! Tell them a vehicle is on the tracks. Highway Wortc Zones In an effort to minimize inconvenience, the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) conducts most road construction and mainte nance �vithout dosing roads to traffic. This poses a traffic hazard fD drivers and their piSsengers, as well as the crew members working on the road. Over half of all fatal injuries to road wo:ckers are caused by being struck by a motor vehicle, and a third of these by vehicles intruding into the work space. Since 1973, 169 GDOT workers have lost their lives in work zones. However, motorists are more likely to be killed or injured in work zone crashes than GDOT workers. The general public accounts for 82% of work zone fatalities nationwide. Highway work zones are defined as portions of a highway or street where construction, recon struction, or maintenance work is being done to the road, its shoulders, or any other areas near the roadway. This definition also includes mobile work such as underground and overhead utility maintenance, snow removal, and land survey ing activities. Highway work zones are set up according to the type of road and the work to be done on the road. Signing, roadway markings, and flaggers are used to direct drivers safely through work zones or carefully ma:cked detours. Motorists are responsible for knowing how to read and react to these directions. Paying atten tion and driving cautiously and courteously are the most important steps to preventing crashes while driving through a work zone. Watch for the color orange. It means road work Obey the Signs Warning signs in work zones have an orange background and b lack letters or symbols. They are used with other traffic control devices or flaggers to help direct traffic safely through work areas and to protect drivers, their pa sengers, and highway workers. Reduce Your Speed For safety reasons, the speed limit in most work zones is reduced. If the speed li mit is not reduced in a work zone, drivers should obey the normal posted speed limit for the road on which they arc traveling, but be more cautious of road conditions, lane position, and the presence of workers. Advisory speed limits are used to identify safe speeds for specific conditions wi thin a work wne. These black and orange signs are always used with warning signs. Official speed limit reduction requirements w ill be indicated with the standard black and white speed limit signs. Motorists who disobey regulatory speed limits i n a work zone may be found guilty of a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature and will be punished by a fine of not less than $100.00 nor more than $2,000.00, or by imprisonment for a term not to exceed 12 months, or both Obey Flaggers Flaggers are people used to direct traffic th rough and around work zones. 1n a work zone, a flagger has the same authoiity as a regulatory sign. Do not disobey a flagger's traffi control directions. SECTION 5: n:IAFFIC LAWS - Yield to Amber Lights in Work Zones Work vehicles and heavy equipment will typically have flashing or revolving amber lights.You must yield the right-of-way to these vehicles. Reduce your speed as you approach any work zone where vehicles have amber lights displayed. Adjust Your Lane Position Travel lanes are likely to be dosed in work zones, and lane patterns may change as the work progresses. Sometimes, workers must operate within inches or feet of an open lane of traffic. When lanes are dosed or narrowed, or work ers are operating on the roadway near traffic, change lanes away from them if possible or shift slightly v.rithin the boundaries of your lane to give added distance between your vehicle and the workers. This will provide extra protection for you, your passengers and the workers along the roa:iway. Yield to Mobile Work Vehicles Some road work can be performed without actually dosing lanes of travel. Pavement main tenance, debris removal, paint striping, utility work, and snow removal are examples of work accomplished while moving in traffic. Vehicles used in performing this type of wo:ck will have flashing amber lights and may have flashing ar rows directing traffic to merge left or right. The vehicles may also display signs for the purpose of directing traffic or indicating hazardous condi tions. These vehicles usually work at very slow speeds, such as 5 miles per hour, and may occasionally be stationary in the road way. For your safety, and the safety of others, slow down, yield the right-0f-way to these work vehicles, and follow any directions displayed by the work vehicles. IWIINIMUM flNE 100 Common signs seen in and around work zones cautioning drivers. WORK ZONE DRIVING TIPS When you travel through a work zone, remember these four tips: 1. Reduce your speed. 2. Watch for speed limit signs. Fines are Increased In most work zones. 3. Adjust your lane position away from workers. 4. Prepare for the unexpected! DO YOUR PART TO HELP PROTECT THE MEN AND WOMEN WHO WORK HARD TO MAKE GEORGIA ROADS AMONG THE BEST IN THE NATION. 22 fl ► - SECTION 5: TRAFFIC LAWS Other Laws Controlled-Access Roadways • You are prohibited from entering or leaving any controlled-access roadway at unauthor ized entrances or exits; • Certain types of vehicles may be prohibited on controlled-access roadways if signs are posted to this effect; • Backing up is prohibited on controlled access roadways. • An example of a controlled-access roadway includes any tolled facility in Georgia such as the I-85 Express Lanes or the reversible I-75 Express Lanes. Tolled lanes in Geor gia require motorists to mount a registered Peach Pass transponder in their vehicle in order to access the lanes. Peach Pass can also be used in Florida and orth Carolina. Registered owners of the vehicle that enters the tolled lane without an active Peach Pass will receive a violation notice in the mail. • You are prohibited from entering the revers ible Express Lanes when the access control gates are closed or closing. Coasting The driver of any motor vehicle, when trav eling down a hill,must not coast with the gears or transmission of the vehicle in neutral. Driving Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol • It is unlawful for any person to operate a motor vehicle while under the in£luence of alcohol, a drug (prescription or illegal), or any other substance which impairs his/her ability to safely do so; • A person 21 or more years of age is consid ered "Under the Influence of Alcohol" when 0.08 gm or more by alcohol weight is present in the blood; • A person under 21 years ofage is irrefutably considered "Under the Influence of Alcohol" when 0.02 gm or more by alcohol weight is present in the blood; Certain drugs or other substances can also make a person irr futably "under the influ ence." Having a prescription for certain medi cation is not a defense if the medication impairs your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. Penalties for driving under the influence o f intoxicants are severe, with fines u p to $1000, jail sentences up to 12 months, and mandatory uspension of your driving privileges. Reckless Driving Reckless driving is defined as driving any vehicle in reckless disregard for the safety of persons or property. Examples of reckless driving include but are not limited to speed ing, weaving in and out of traffic, improperly passing, etc. Penalties for reckless driving can include a fine ci up to $1000, imprisonment for up to 12 months, and, if the driver is under 21 years of age, conviction will result in a suspen sion of aJ1 driving privileges. Racing The following behaviors are considered rac ing on highways and streets: • When two or more people compete or race on any street or highway; • When one motor vehicle is beside or to the rear of another driver, and one driver tries to prevent the passing or overtaking of the com peting driver by acceleration or maneuver; or • When one or more persons compete in a race against time. Aggressive Driving • A person commits the offense of aggressive driving when he or she operates any motor vehicle with the intent to annoy, harass, molest, intimidate, injure, or obstruct another person; • Examples of aggressive driving include but are not limited to tailgating, cutting in front of another driver, blocking other drivers from passing or changing lanes, etc. • A conviction for aggressive driving is considered a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature; The penalty for committing this violation may include imprisonment, fines, and, if the driver is under 21 years of age, conviction will result in a suspension of all driving privileges. Drag Racing/Reckless Stunt Driving "Reckless Stunt Driving" is operating "any vehicle while drag racing, in violation of Code Section 40-6-186, or laying drags, in violation of Code Section 40-6-251, in reckless disregard for the safety of persons on a highway or upon private property without express authorization from the owner of such property." Penalties: 1st Conviction within 5 years • 12-month suspension •Eligible for early reinstatement at the end of 120 days .Restoration Fee $210/$200 by mail •Limited Permit Available 2nd Conviction within 5 years •3-ycar suspension •Eligible for early reinstatement after 18 months from the date of conviction •Restoration Fee $310/$300 by mail .Limited Permit Available 3rd and Subsequent Conviction Within 5 years •Habitual Violator (HY) Revocation •No Limited Permit Available .May apply for a probationary license per O.C.G.A. § 40-5-58 Trucks and Vehicles Pulling Trailers When traveling upon a roadway outside of a business or residential district, drivers of trucks and vehicles pulling trailers must le.ave sufficient space between themselves and other vehicles of the same kind, so that the driver of an overtaking vehicle can enter and occupy the space without danger. This law prohibits the act commonly known as "caravanning." Trailers wider than 8 feet, 6 inches are not permitted on Georgia's highways. Riding in Trailers Riding in a house trailer, or any other v hicular drawn trailer, is not allowed while it is being moved upon a street or highway. There is a high likelihood of injury or death if passengers are unrestrained in the trailer and the vehide is involved in a crash or the trailer becomes disconnected from the vehicle. Median Strip lt is wtlawful to drive across a dividing sec tion, barrier, or unpaved strip which separates two roadways at any point other than at an authorized opening or crossover. Impaired Hearing and Vision It is unlawful to operate a motor vehicle while wearing a headphone, headset, or any other device which would impair the driver's ability to hear. Also, the driver must not wear anything which would obstruct his or her vi sion while driving a motor vehicle. Not only is wearing these devices illegal, it is also unsafe. Obstructing the Driver's View If a vehicle is overloaded with passengers or freight so as to obstruct the view of the driver or interfere with the mechanical operation, it cannot be legally driven. Passengers must not ride in a position that interferes with the driver's view or his or her control of the vehicle. Opening Vehicle Doors Opening the doors of a vehicle on the side on which traffic is rroving is p-ohibited unless it is safe to do so and unless it can be done without interfering with the movement of other traffic, including bicyclists that may be operating close to the lane of parked cars. One Way Streets Unless directed to by a traffic control device, authorized emergency personnel or construc tion workers, it is unlawful for a vehicle to be driven contrary to the direction posted on a one-way street or highway, except in situations where police vehicles or authorized emergency vehicles find it necessary to do so. Stopping When stopping or slowing down suddenly, the proper hand, arm, or brake operated stop signal must be given. Use Headlights Properly Use high-beam headlights only when driv ing in rural areas and when other cars are not nearby. You must use your headlights between one-half hour after sunset to one-half hour fore sunrise; at any time when it is raining; or when visibility is limited. You should dim (lower) your headlights when: • You are within 500 feet of an approaching vehicle so as not to blind the driver; • You are following closely (within 200 feet) behind another vehicle; • You are driving on lighted roads; • You are driving in rain, fog, snow, or smoke; • Your vision is reduced to less than 200 feet. Night Driving Because of decreased vision at night and the glare of oncoming headlights, night driving presents its own unique challenges. Unfamiliar roads and unexpected situations are more like ly to cause hazardous driving conditions. You can help ensure safe driving in several ways. • Make sure your headlights are working properly and the lenses are kept clean. Pe riodically have them checked for correct aim/alignment; • Don't "overdrive" your headlights. When traveling at night or in other situations that make the use of headlights necessary for safe travel, do not drive at a speed that requires a stopping time greater than the distance illuminated by your headlights; • Slow down when oncoming traffic is ap proaching or when you are nearing a curve; • If visibility is greatly reduced, use the edge line as a guide to maintaining your lane of travel. If there is no edge line, use the center line to guide yourself; • Keep your windshield clean; • Do not drive if you are tired. More frequent stops, more fresh air, lively radio programs and other measures can help you to avoid drowsiness and inattention; • Watch carefully for highway signs; they are harder to see at night; • Watch carefully for pedestrians and for ve hicles stopped along the edge of the road; • Do not stop on the roadway. Safety Belts Georgia law states that each occupant in the front seat of a passenger vehicle traveling on Georgia roads and highways must be secured by a seat safety belt (lap and shoulder). All oc cupants of any passenger vehicle must utilize a seat safety belt if they are under the age of 18. Safety belts are needed because they are the most effective occupant protection in all types of vehicle crashes. According to Crash Stats from the National Highway Traffic Safety Admin istration, seat belts saved 12,802 lives in 2014. Georgia Department of Transportation reports that the risk of fatality in a crash is reduced by about 45% when scat belts arc used. U ing safety belts correctly is a preventable health care habit that: • helps you keep control of the vehicle; • helps keep your head from striking the dash or windshield; • helps keep people in the vehicle from hitting each other; • helps spread the crash force across the stron ger parts of the body; • helps protect you from injury; • helps keep you from being ejected from the vehicle. When used correctly, safety belts are effective at helping reduce the risk of death or serious GEORGIA'S UI IER CONTROi. LAW lllJtllY· Georgia has a "primary" safety belt law, meaning that officers may stop and cite violators without observing another violation. Safety Restraints for Children Every driver transporting a child who is under eight years of age, except in a taxi.cab or public transit vehicle, must properly re- strain the child in a child passenger restrain ing system appropriate for the child's height and weight. The restraint system must com ply with the United States Department of Transportation Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213. Under limited circumstances, a child under eight may be exempt from this requirement. For further information, contact the Governor's Office of Highway Safety http://www.gahighwaysafety.org. Distracted Driving Distracted driving is one of the fastest growing safety issues. According to the ational Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 3,142 people were killed on U.S. roadways in 2019 because of distracted drivers. Distracted driving is doing another activity while driving. This takes the driver's attention away from the primary task of driving and increases the risk of crashing. Common distractions include but are not limited to talking on a cell phone, texting, reading, eating, grooming, using a navi-gation device, and adjusting the stereo system. The presence of a passengers and pets can also increase crash risk. Georgia law requires driv-ers to exercise due care in operating a motor vehicle and prohibits any action that distracts the driver from the safe operation of such vehicle. Following Emergency Vehicles The driver of any vehicle, other than one on official business, must not follow any fire fighting apparatus traveling in response to a fire alarm, or other emergency vehicles, closer than 200 feet, or park any vehicle within 500 feet of any fire apparatus stopped in answer to a fire alarm Each year, municipal, county and state government agencies spend thousands of dollars to clean up litter from the streets and highways of Georgi.a. Individuals who litter cause harm to the beauty of the state and impact the health,. welfare and safety of others. Whenever litter is thrown, deposited, or dropped from any motor vehicle, the operator of the vehicle shall have violated the Litter Control Law. All Georgi.a law enforcement agencies are authorized to enforce compliance of the Litter Control Law. It is unlawful to dump, deposit, throw or leave litter on any public or private property in the State of Georgia, or any waters in the State of Georgia. • "Litter'' means all sand, gravel, slag, brick bats, rubbish, waste material, tin cans, refuse, garbage, trash, dead animals or discarded materials of every kind and description; • "Public or private property" means the right-of-way of any road or highway, any body of water or watercourse of the shores or beaches thereof, any park, playground, building refuge or conservation or recreation area and residential or farm properties, timberlands or forest. Georgia's Litter Control Law classifies littering as damage to property. A conviction under this law is considered a misdemeanor in Georgia. Persons convicted of this law may be assessed a fine up to $1000 and a 12 month jail term. In addition, if convicted of littering, a judge could order the convicted person to pi.ck up and remove litter from any designated area. LITTER. b. � . ' ' . ' l -i_: _, - __, .. ,_. �· I i I ' r • ' ' • ,• • : ' r � i 24 f L ► ===================�SECTJON5 Traffic Laws TEX.TING & CELL PHONES Textlng and Cell Phone Use While Driving Georgia has a hands Free Law (HB 673) that mandates that drivers are not allowed to hold or support a phone for any reason. A phone can only be used with headphones, a wireless device, phone holder or mounted device. Penalties are fines and points added to your driving record increasing for each conviction. UDRIVE. UTEXT. Hands Free Georgia Law {HB 673) Pursuant to 40-6-241 (c), pa ssed in 2018, all drivers operating a motor vehicle on any highway of this sta te. Holding or supporting, with any part of the body, a wireless telecommunica tions device or sta nd-a lone electronic device. • Writing, sending or reading any text-based communication, including a text message, instant message, e-mail or internet data. • Watching, recording, or broadcasting a video or movie. Penalties • 1st conviction - 1 point and fine not more than $50.00 • 2nd conviction - 2 points and fine not more than $100.00 • 3rd or more convictions - 3 points and fine nor more than $150.00 Passing a Postal Carrier or Sanitation Workers The operator of a motor vehicle approaching a postal service vehicle or a vehicle with active sanitation workers that is displaying flashing yellow, amber, white, or red lights shall approach the vehicle with due caution and shall (unless directed by a peace officer) proceed as follows: •Make a lane change into a lane not adjacent to the vehicle if possible in the existing safety and traffic conditions; or •If a lane change would be impossible, prohibited by law, or unsafe, reduce the speed of the motor vehicle to a reasonable and proper speed for the existing road and traffic conditions, which speed shall be at least ten miles per hour less than the posted speed limit or 25 miles per hour, whichever is more, and be prepared to stop. •Violation of subsection (b) of this Code section shall be punished by a fine of not more 71 than $250.00. 0 =@uiEllJ@ TEENDRWING LAWS This Section Covers School Enrollment Requirements ......................26 Joshua's Law....................................................... 26 Class C Instructional Pennit (CP) ....................... 26 Class D Provisional License ........................... 27 Teens Moving to Georgia ............................... 27 Revocation of Minor's Ucense/Permit ..............27 License/Permit Suspensions............................. 27 Suspension of Driver's License/Permit or Driving Privileges .............................................. 27 Convictions Other Than DUI ...................................27 Convictions for Driving Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol (DUQ ....................... 27 In 1997 The Teenage and Driver Responsibilit) Act (TADRA) established a graduated driver's licensing program for teens ages 15 to 18 in Georgia. This means that teens progress through a licensing process in three phases. As teens reach a certain age, complete certain requirements and have demonstrated their ability to safely operate a motor vehicle, they are allowed to progress to the next phase. Successful progression to the next phase also requires a demonstration of reponsibility on the part of the teen by avoiding any violations during the term of the license held. TADRA Responsible Adult Requirements All applicants under 18 years of age must have a responsible adult present to sign the ap plication and complete the Responsible Adult Affidavit. A responsible adult is a person who is eighteen (18) years of age or older, competent to verify the application, and has personal knowledge of the applicant. He or she may be: • A parent or legal guardian of the applicant (must provide school or military documents, tax information or a driver's license/permit/ID card to show relationship to applicant), • A social worker who has worked with the applicant (must provide an employee ID or a letter from the state agency), • Certified Driver Training instructor authorized to act on behalf of the parent, legal guardian or responsible adult of the appli cant with notarized documentation to verify, • An employee of a homeless shelter where the applicant resides (must provide an employee ID or a letter from the shelter), • A stepparent of the applicant; • Other persons who can be identified by a state agency or official, school official or certified school records, or documentation from a federal agency or entity. also includes school enrollment requirements Joshua's Law and license suspension/revocation provisions h . sec! dri . f d beh . ( DUI, . Jos ua's Law promot mcrea teen vmg or angerous aviors e.g. excessive fe. Th h. hi" h fJ h , La • cl d speeding, etc.) sa ty. e 1g 1gtso os ua s wm u e: School Enrollment Requirements Anyone younger than 18 years of age must present one of the following in order to obtain a driver's license or instructional permit: l. Certificate of School Enrollment (DS-1- obtained from school personnel); 2. High School Diploma; 3. General Education Development (GED); 4. Special Diploma; 5. Certificate of High School Completion; 6. College or vocational school transcript dated within the last thirty days (official transcript with seal required); 7. Certificate of Adult Literacy proving pursuit of a GED (available from the Technical Col lege ystcm of Georgia for those currently enroUed in a GED program); 8. Declaration ofinlent for Home Schoolers. Approved driver education training required to obtain a Gass D Provisional license at ages 16 andl7; Approved driver education training required to obtain a Gass M Instructional Permit (MP) at age 16; You must be 17 years of age to obtain a Oass M Motorcycle Operator's License. The first stage of the graduated licensing program is a Class C Instructional Permit (CP). Class C Instructional Permit (CP) For first-time issuance of a Oass C Instructional Permit (CP), you must meet all requirements to obtain a Real DIJID if you have not already done so. See page 6 for requirements. Obtaining a Class C Instructional Permit {CP) Upon reaching age 15, or anytime thereafter, you may apply for a Cla Instructional Permit (CP). The following information will help you prepare for your visit to a DDS Customer Service Center: 26 f l ► • You will be required to present documents verifying your identity, U.S. citizenship or lawful presence, and Georgia residency as explained on pages 10-11; • You must know your full Social Security umber or provide proof of your ineligibility to obtain a Social Security Number. See page 10 for a list of acceptable documents; • If you are under age 18, you will be required to present proof of school enrollment as explained in this section; • If you are under age 18, a parent, legal guardian or responsible adult will have to sign the application, thereby giving their consent for you to obtain a permit. The individual who signs your application may, for any reason, revoke your permit until you reach the age of 18; • You v.'ill be required to pass a vision test. Your eyes will be tested by means of a mechanical device; • You v.'ill be required to pass a knowledge exam related to Road Signs and Road Rules. Please refer to page 16 for more information related to the knowledge exam; • The test fee is $10.00 and must be paid prior to testing. If any part of the test is failed, no refund will be issued. The permit fee must be paid prior to every testing attempt. Conditions of a Class C Instructional Permit {CP) • Once issued a Oass C Instructional Permit (CP), you may operate any Oass C vehicle when accompanied by a person at least 21 years of age who is licensed to drive a Class C vehicle, who is fit and capable of exercising control over the vehicle, and who is occupying a seat beside the driver; • Oass C Instructional Permits (CP) are valid for 2 years. - SEC110N 6: TEEN DRIVING LAWS Class D Provisional License For first-time issuance of a Class D License, you must meet all the requirements for a RealDU ID if you have not already done so. See pages 10-11 for complete requirements. Obtaining a Class D Provisional License Upon reaching age 16 and after having hdd a valid instructional perit for one year and one day, you may apply for a Class D Provisional License by: • You must schedule a road test appointment (see page 16). • You must surrender your Class C Instruction-al Pennit (CP) or affinn on your application that you are unable to surrender the pcnnit Sec pages 19-20 for details concerning lost licenses and pcnnits; • You will be required to present proofof school enrollment as explained in this sec-lion; • You must present proofofcompletion ofthe Alcohol and Drug Awareness Program (ADAP). This program is taught in most schools, and is also available on line. For information about ADAP, you may visit dds.georgia.gov; • A parent, legal guardian or responsible adult will have to sign the application, thereby giving their consent for you to obtain a license. This person may, for any reason, revoke your license until you reach age 18. • You must pass a road test designed to evaluate your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. • You must satisfy the Driver Education/Joshua's Law listed bdow. (Note: Teens with parents active in the U.S. Military may use an out of state driver's education certificate provided that it is within 9 months of their 16th birthday. Driver Education Requirements • To obtain a Oass D license at the age of 16 or 17 you must complete a driver education course approved by DDS. An approved driver education course consists of: » either 30 hours of classroom instruction OR completion of an equivalent online virtual course; AND » 6 hours of on-the-road experience with a certified instructor OR completion of the DDS approved Parent/Teen Driver Guide; » You must also have completed a cumulative total of at least 40 hours of other driving experience including at least 6 hours at night. Completion of the DDS approved Parent/Teen Driving Guide will serve as an affidavit certifying that this requirement has been met; • If the teen obtains the on-the-road component from a certified instructor, a separate document affirming that this requirement has been met must Conditions of a Class D Provisional License • A Class D license Holder may not drive be tween the hours of 12:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. - 0 EXCEPTIONS; • During the f irst six months following is suance, only immediate family members may ride in the vehicle. 'Immediate family member' includes the driver' s parents and step-parents, grandparents, siblings and step siblings, children, and any other person who resides at the driver's residence; • During the second six months following i suance, only one passenger under 21 years of age who is not a member of the driver's immediate family may ride in the vehicle; • After the first and second six-month periods, only three passengers under 21 years of age who are not members of the driver's immedi ate family may ride in the vehicle; • A Class D license Holder must, for the 12 months preceding application for their Class C license, be free from any convictions for major traffic violations that result in the man datory suspension of a driver's license. Teens Moving to Georgia The following information applies to teens moving to Georgia from another state who wish to obtain a driver's licen.se or permit in Georgia. Under Age 18 without a valid license issued by another state If you do not already hold a valid driver's license or instructional permit issued by an other state, you will be subject to the licensing requirements of Georgia residents. Please see the preceding sections for more information. Under Age 18 with valid out of state license If you hold a valid driver's license or instruc tional pennit issued by another state, you will normally be eligible to obtain a comparnble license issued by Georgia. However, the state of issuance may have requirements for teenage drivers that differ from Georgia. For more infor mation, please call the Customer Contact Center at (678) 4B-8400. be completed at the time of the road test. • • • • You must present proof of completion of the Revocation of Mmor's License/ Alcohol and Drug Awareness Program (ADAP). Permit This program is taught in most schools, and is also available online. Fo� information about ADAP, you The parent, legal guardian or responsible may vis1t dds.georg1a.gov; d It h · d · _, Ii · < Ex . a u w o s1gne a mmo1 s app cation 1or an • ception Anyl7-year-old is exempt from holding their Class CP/instructional permit for oneJear and one day with proof that they are enliste in the military. They will be issued a Class C license afler successfully passing the road lcsL instructional permit or driver's license may re quest revocation of the license or permit at any time prior to the minor's eighteenth birthday. The person requesting revocation of a minor's instructional permit or driver's license must submit his or her request for the revocation on the form designated by the Department. The form requires the person's notarized signature. The person requesting revocation of a minor's instructional permit or driver's license must pay a non-refundable fee of $10.00. License/Permit Suspensions Convictions Other Than DUI The State of Georgia applies strict penalties to teens who fail to obey the laws regarding opera tion of a motor vehicle. The instructional pennit or driver's license of any person under21 years of age convicted of any of the following offenses shall be SUSPENDED for a period of six months for a first conviction, or for a period of twelve months for a second or subsequent conviction. • Hit and run or leaving the scene of a crash; • Racing on highways or sh·eets; • Using a motor vehicle in fleeing or attempting to elude an officer; • Reckless driving; • Aggressive driving; • Any other offense for which four or more points arc assessed: » Unlawful passing of a school bus; » Improper passing on a hill or curve; » Exceeding the speed limit by 24miles per hour or more. • The accumulation of four or more points in any 12-month period while under 18 years of age. A limited permit may be available only if the suspension resulted from a conviction for speeding 24-33 mph over the speed limit and the applicant is at least 18 years old. Convictions for Driving Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol (DUI) First DUI Suspension: • If your Blood Alcohol Concentration was .02 or greater, but less than .08; or yow· implied consent test results were suppressed; or no test was given, your I icense wi 11 be suspend ed for a minimum period of 6 months, wliess you have a previous conviction for an offense in the above list, in which case your license will be suspended for a minimum period of 12 months; • If your Blood Alcohol Concentration was .08 or greater or you refused implied consent testing, your license will be suspended for a minimum period of12 months; • No limited driving permit is available. Second DUI Suspension: Your license will be suspended for a minimum period of18 months, with ignition interlock per mit eligibility after120 days. f l ► 21 -0 =0iilEll] za SIGNS� SIGNALS &MARKINGS This Section Covers RoadSigns ............................................................ 28 Shapes of Signs .................................................. 28 Regulatory Signs ................................................. 29 Warning Signs ..................................................... 30 Guide Signs ......................................................... 32 Construction and Maintenance Warning Signs ..................................................... 33 Service Signs ...................................................... 33 Traffic Signals and Signs .................................... 34 Lane Control Signals ............................................ 34 Overhead Lane Signs .......................................... 34 Pedestrian Signals .............................................. 34 PHB/WALK Signal ............................................. 35 Pavement Markings ............................................. 36 stop Lines ........................................................... 36 Crosswalk Lines .................................................. 36 Railroad Crossings ............................................. 36 Center Lines ....................................................... 36 No Passing Lines................................................ 36 Edge Lines.......................................................... 36 Lane Lines ...........................................................36 Traffic Striping .................................................... 36 TlJTl IJre; ... .... ....... ............ ......... .... .... .............. 37 Bicycle Lanes ..................................................... 3 7 Roundabouts ....................................................... 37 It's the Law Georgia law requires that all drivers, including bicyclists, obey official highway signs and traf fic control signals unless otherwise directed by a police officer or emergency worker. Road Signs Shapes of Signs The State of Georgia uses seven basic shapes of signs to convey traff ic control instructions. Drivers should know signs by their shapes and colors so that they may recognize them from a distance and begin reacting timely and appropriately. NO � PARKING 0 PA\/EME T THRU TRAFFIC Vertical Rectangle signs are generally used for regulatory signs, which tell you what you must do. You must obey them in the same manner as traffic laws. Horizontal Rectangle signs are generally used as guide signs. They show locations, directions, or other special information. STOP Diamond shaped signs warn of existing or possible hazards on roadways or adjacent areas. They are yellow with black words indicating the potential hazard, or black symbols visually describing the potential hazard. An Octagon (eight-sided shape) always means A round sign means you are approaching a rail stop. When you come to it, you must make a com- road crossing. This sign is posted a few hundred plete stop at a marked stop line. If there is no stop feet in front of the tracks and alerts you to slow line, stop before the crosswalk on your side of the down, look, listen and prepare to stop. If neces intersection. If there is no crosswalk, stop at a point sary, roll down a window and listen carefully for an from which you can best see oncoming traffic. approaching train. If a train is approaching, stop! You must not start again until all pedestrians have Do not try to calculate whether you can "make it" finished crossing on the side of the roadway you across the track. Never try to beat a train through are traveling on, and you have yielded the right- the intersection. Passing is prohibited at all railroad of-way to closely approaching traffic. crossings. Triangle signs mean yield. You must slow down to a speed that is reasonable for existing conditions and stop if necessary. If you must stop, do so at a marked stop line, if it exists. After slowing or stopping, you must yield the right-of-way to other vehicles in the intersection or approaching closely on another roadway or auxiliary road leading into a major highway. Pentagon shaped signs mean you are approaching a school zone and/or school crossing. When used, they will be erected not less than 150 feet nor more than 700 feet in advance of the school grounds or school crossing. (These signs can sometimes be fluorescent green in color.) SECffON 7, SIGNS, SIGNALS & MARKINGS ---- Regulatory Signs Regulatory signs tell drivers what they may or may not do. Drivers, including bicyclists, must obey them in the same manner as traffic laws. Remember, a red circle with a red slash from upper left to lower right means" o." The picture within the circle shows what is prohibited. WRONG WAYI EDUCm SP D AHEAD SCHOOL SPEED LIM T 20 - You are approaching a one-way highway or ramp. Driving on the highway or ramp in the direction you are traveling is not allowed. You cannot turn around to go in the opposite direction at this intersection. You are approach ing an area where a reduced speed limit has been es tablished. You are approach ing a school zone. A reduced speed limit is in effect when the yellow lights are flashing. ON WAY � NO KIGHT TURN SLOWER TRAFFIC KEEP RIGHT SJNO BICYCLES You may travel only in the direction of the arrow. You cannot make a right tum at this inter section. When two or more traveling lanes are available in the direc tion you are traveling, slower traffic should travel in the right (outside) lane(s). Bicycles are prohib ited from entering this roadway. KEEP RIGMT SP ED L MIT 55 NO RIGHT TURN ON RED AFTER STOP NO TRUCKS This marks a one way road. If you are facing this sign traf fic is coming toward you. You must not continue down the road . Traffic is required to keep to the right of medians or obstruc tions. 55 miles per hour is the maximum speed limit permitted in this area. A right tum on red is prohibited, even after coming to a complete stop. Trucks are prohibited from entering this roadway. --sECTION � SIGNS, SIGNALS & MARKINGS Warning Signs Warning signs are usually yellow with black markings. (Warning signs can also be fluorescent green with black markings.) They alert you to conditions that are immediately ahead. There may be road hazards, changes in traffic direction, or some other potentially hazardous situation that requires action on your part. Sharp turn to the right and then sharp turn to the left. Side road enters highway ahead at an angle. The bridge ahead allows room for only two lanes of traffic. Approach with cau tion. Shoulder of the road is soft. Drive on the sho ulder only in emergencies. Warning that you are leaving a separated one-way highway and will soon be driving on a two-way highway. LOW CW.RJHCE Sharp tum to the right. Winding road ahead. Another road crosses the highway ahead. There is a dip in the road ahead. Slow down! Divided highway begins. Prepare to change lanes or shift lane position. Approaching a low underpass. Do not enter if your vehicle or cargo exceeds the maximum height in dicated on the sign. 30 f l ► Curve to the right. Side road enters highway ahead. The road you are traveling on ends straight ahead. Slow down and prepare to yield or stop before turning right or left. There is a bump in the road ahead. Slow down! Divided highway ends. Prepare to change lanes or shift lane position. Steep hill ahead. Slow down and be ready to shift to lower gear to control speed and protect brakes from damage. Presence of traffic signals at intersec tion ahead. Slow down! Roadway is slippery when wet. Remem ber, the first half-hour of rain is most haz ardous. Traffic merging from the right. Prepare to allow traffic to safely merge. SECTION � SIGNS, SIGNALS & MARKINGS - These signs alert drivers in ad vance of areas where animals, people, and ve hicles may be crossing. There is a yield sign ahead. Slow down and prepare to stop if necessary. There is a stop sign ahead. Begin to slow down and be pre pared to stop. Drivers must stop and stay stopped when pedestrians are in the crosswalk. This sign is on the left side of the highway and marks the begin ning of a no passing zone. Any passing maneuver must be completed before reaching this sign. These signs may be accompanied by speed advisory plaques that indicate the speed with which you should proceed. � Number of lanes '-0/--- ONE Tm OR CALL COULi .. ◄ --sECTION � SIGNS, SIGNALS & MARKINGS Guide Signs Guide signs may indicate what road you are on, and how to get to your destination. Many guide signs are rectangular, but some have other shapes. There are several different kinds of guide signs - route markers, information, destination, di tance, and location ign . These igns may be accompanied by a "To" ign or an arrow, indicating the highway, facility, or location that can be reached by following the signs. Here are some examples: The numbers on these signs des ignate specific exits, interstates or highways. Intersection of U.S. Route 47 & Ga. High way 38. These roads are going to cross or meet the highway you are traveling on . Milepost mar1< ers are placed each mile along the edge of the roadway from one end of the state to the oth er. Zero always starts at the south or west border where a route begins. 44 EXIT 1f Caution - a vehicle displaying this emblem is a slow-moving vehicle. A slow-moving vehicle is defined as any vehicle moving less than 25 miles per hour. They are required by law to display this emblem. 32 f l ► This sign mar1<s an offi cially designated bicycle route. Be cautious of bi cyclists while traveling on this road. I ____.. I This sign means there is a public parking area in the direction of the arrow. The cross-buck is placed at all railroad crossings. Yield to any approaching trains. Slow down, look and listen before cross ing. A sign below the cross-buck indicates the number of tracks. A complete stop is required when a red light is flashing. ===============:-csEcnON � SIGNS, SIGNALS & MARKINGS---- Constntction and Maintenance Warning Signs ROAD CONSTRUCTION 5 MILES Warning signs for construction and maintenance projects are used to alert you to dangers ahead and give you enough time to adjust your speed accordingly. These signs arc orange with black markings. Service Signs While traveling along Georgia's highways, the fol lowing blue and white signs will give directions to service facilities. FOOID " PHONIE GAS • LODGING HOSPITAL CAMPING: NEXT RIGHT EXPRESS IANES Express Lanes offer motorists the option to pay a toll to bypass congestion in certain areas on the interstate. All vehicles with no more than two axles or up to six wheels can use Express Lanes if they have a registered Peach Pass. When the vehicle travels through the Express Lane, the toll amount will automatically be deducted from the pre-established account. There are currently two sets of Express Lanes in Georgia. The 1-85 Express Lanes are HOT Lanes along 1-85 North in Gwinnett County. They are open 24-hours per day. On the 1-85 Express Lanes, registered transit, three or more person carpools, motorcycles, emer gency vehicles, and Alternative Fuel Vehicles (AFV) with the proper AFV license plate are allowed to use the lanes toll-free. The 1-75 South Metro Express Lanes are reversible lanes along 1-75 South in Henry and Clayton counties. Reversible lanes change directions during the day to provide additional travel options during peak travel periods. When the travel direction is being reversed, signs will show the lanes are closed. On the 1-75 South Metro Express ROAD CLOSED Lanes, all vehicles, including motorcycles and electric vehicles, are required to pay a toll. Public transit buses, registered vanpools and emergency response vehicles may use the lanes toll-free if they have a Peach Pass. EXPRESS LANES "' ENTRANCE ■10NlYI■ EXPIRESS LAINES --sECTION � SIGNS, SIGNALS & MARKINGS Traffic Signals and Signs Traffic signals are placed at intersections to control the orderly movement of traffic and to prevent crashes. Drivers (including bicyclists) and pedestrians must obey these ignals except when an officer is directing traffic. U a traffic signal i not fun tioning at all at an intersection, all drivers must treat the intersection as if a stop sign is posted for all directions. U a traffic signal is malfunc tioning and flashing, drivers must proceed based on the color of the flashing signal they are facing: if the driver is facing a yellow flashing signal, the driver may proceed with caution; if the driver is facing a red fl.a hin g ignal, the driver mu t stop and wait until it is safe to proceed. A red light means you must make a complete stop before entering the crosswalk or intersection and wait until the light turns to green before proceeding. A yellow light warns that the light is changing from green to red. Slow clown and prepare to stop. A green light means you may pro ceed if it is safe to do so after stop ping for pedestrians and yielding to vehicles within the intersection. Lane Control Signals Overhead Lane Signs Some roadways are designed to accommo date different traffic demands during t he day through the use of a reversible lane system. Ap propriate travel lanes on a roadway utilizing a reversible lane system are indicated as follows: No travel allowed in this lane in the direction you are going. "Steady" - clear the lane "Flashing" - left tum permitted. Travel in lane. � ONLY Left tum only. Straight or left tum only. ('I ONLY Right tum only. 34 f l ► A green arrow means you may pro ceed carefully only in the direction the arrow is pointing after stopping for pedestrians and yielding to vehicles within the intersection. In this case you may go straight ahead only. A green arrow, in this case, means you may tum in the direction of the arrow after stopping for pedestrians and yielding to vehicles within the in tersection. A yellow arrow may appear after a green arrow and warns you to clear the intersection. A red flashing light means you must stop completely (treat as you would a stop sign). Proceed with caution only after yielding the right-of-way to pe destrians and to other vehicles at the intersection. A yellow flashing light means you must slow clown and exercise caution before proceeding through the intersection. Pedestrian Signals -� � � - ------ WALK Leave the curb to cross the street. Do not leave curb. A flashing yellow arrow means you may tum left after yielding to oncom ing traffic and pedestrians (oncoming traffic still has the green light). Min SIART - fi i� Cress in l II Star1ed Tl [ RENIJNING l Fi i� c,mirq Flashing - do not leave curb, but complete walking across the street if already started. Pedestrian-Hybrid Beacons (PHB) This signal is known as a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB), and it is designed to help pedestrians safely cross busy streets. Pedestrians push a button to activate the overhead beacon and stop road traffic. When WALK appears on the Pedestrian signal, pedestrians can cross the street. Dark Solld Red The PHB remains DARK for traffic unless a pedes- The solid yellow is followed by double SOLID RED trian activates the push-button. signals, requiring drivers to stop. Flashing When a pedestrian presses the button, the signal is activated. Approaching drivers will see a FLASH ING YELLOW signal for a few seconds. Solid Yellow The flashing yellow is followed by a SOLID YEL LOW signal, indicating drivers should reduce speed and be prepared to stop. Flashing Red The double solid red signals are followed by al ternating FLASHING RED signals. This requires drivers to come to a full STOP, and proceed when pedestrians have cleared the crosswalk. The signal will then go dark until activated again by a pedestrian. --sECTION � SIGNS, SIGNALS & MARKINGS Railroad Crossings Pavement Markings Pavement markings, like highway signs, are used to warn and direct drivers and to regulate traffic. Stop Lines Stop lines are white lines painted across the pavement at intersections indicating the point beyond which your vehicle should not cross if you are stopping for a traffic control device. In urban areas, the line is usually located about four feet before the crosswalk. Drivers must come to a complete stop at the stop line, when present, not at the actual stop sign or traffic signal. Crosswalk Lines These white lines are painted across, or partially across the pavement. Sometimes they will be painted in a ladder pattern. When pedestrians are in the crosswalks, they have the right-of-way over motor vehicles. Crosswalks are sometimes in the middle of a block in residential areas, and in some cases, a pedestrian crossing signal is located at the white line. When a road is crossed by a railroad crossing, the pavement is usually marked with a large X and two R's. At railroad crossings, a yellow line is always placed on the right side of the center line to prevent passing. The cross ing is sometimes equipped with control arms and/or emergency lights, to warn drivers of approaching trains. The driver of the vehicle must stop if warning signals indicate a train is approaching. Edge Lines Center Lines These are used to separate traffic moving in opposite directions on paved roadways. Broken yellow lines are used when there are only two lanes and it is safe to pass in either direction. No Passing Lines Single Lines These single, solid yellow lines on two-lane roads indicate zones where passing is prohibited. They will be located on the right of the broken yellow line when they apply to the lane in which you are traveling. In some instances, both yellow lines will be solid, indicating it is not safe for passing in either direction. Double White Lines These are double white line (dashed or solid) pavement markings on roadways that indicate where vehicles can or cannot cross to access the adjacent lane. When the double white lines are dashed, vehicles are allowed to cross over to the adjacent lane. When the double white lines are solid, lane changes are prohibited. These are the solid white lines along the side of the pavement. They serve as safety guides, especially at night when it is difficult to see the edge of the road. A yellow edge line may be used on the left side to warn of narrow or raised medians. e e s eLane Lines These are the white dashes that mark the individual lanes of travel on streets and highways having more than one lane for traffic moving in the same direction. When there are four or more lanes with traffic moving in opposite drections, two solid yellow lines mark the center of the roadway. You may cross these lines only to make a left turn into or from an alley, private road, driveway, or another street. When traveling on a multi-lane road, stay in the right lane except to pass other vehicles traveling in the same direction. Traffic Striping These markings, created by diagonal yellow lines, are on streets and highways indi cating that the road is narrowing or there is an obstruction on the roadway. The area is similar to a triangle with solid yellow diagonal lines within the outside lines. Always keep to the right of these markings. SECTION � SIGNS, SIGNALS & MARKINGS - Turn lanes These lanes, bordered by solid yellow and/or broken yellow lines, is in the center of many streets and highways to make left turns. A motorist desiring to tum left should proceed to the tum lane just prior to making a left tum. Georgia law prohibits the use of this lane for any purpose other than making a left tum. You may enter this lane no more than 300 feet from the location of the left tum. When a turning lane is provided for vehicles traveling in both directions, you should use extreme caution before entering the turning lane to make a left tum. There may be a vehicle traveling in the opposite direction also entering the turning lane to make a left tum. This is especially problematic in congested areas. Bicycle Lanes These are solid white lines typically located between the farthest right traffic lane and the curb or edge of the roadway. If there is a right-tum-only lane present, the bicycle lane will be located to the left of the right-tum-only lane in order to safely accommodate bicycles traveling straight through the intersection. Bicycle lanes may also be marked with painted symbols of a bicycle. Drivers of motor vehicles are prohibited from driving or parking in the bicycle lane, except to cross over it to make a turn. When crossing over a bicycle lane to make a tum, motorists must yield to bicyclists that are present. ROUNDABOUTS Navigating a roundabout Roundabouts are sometimes used a t intersections instead o f stop signs. The purpose of a roundabout is to allow the intersection to handle heavier traffic flow without the need for a signal or a four-way stop. When entering a roundabout, traffic laws concerning right-of-way still apply. You must yield to other traffic that is already in the roundabout. You will al ways enter a roundabout to the right, and continue circling until you have reached the roadway onto which you want to tum. When reaching the desired road, you will always exit to the right. i PEDESTRIANS @Approach: At the pedestrian crosswa , k>ok to make sure cars stop for you. Use pedestrian crossing signal if available. ®cross: Cross to the pedestrian refuge. Look to make sure cars stop for you. Finish crossing to the opposite sidewalk. Never cross to the center island. A CYCLISTS Experienced cyclists may navigate roundabouts like motorists. Do not hug the curb. Ride in the middle of the lane to prevent vehicles from passing you. Stop for pedestrians in crosswalks. Children or cyclists who are not comfortable enterilllJ the flow of traffic sholJd walk their cycles and act as pedestrians. Navigating a Single Lane Roundabout � MOTORISTS G)Approach: Slow down to the posted advisory speed. Slop for pedestrians in the crosswaJk; they have the right ohvay_ @Enter. When entering the roundabout, yield to all circulating vehicles. Wai1 for a gap and then merge into traffic in the roundabout. Traffic in a roundabout always circulates counterclockwise. @Proceed: Continue circling through the roundabout until you reach the roadway onto which you want to tum. @)Exit: Signal, then bear right to exit the roundabout. Slop for pedesb'ians in the crosswalk. Navigating a Multilane Roundabout (!)Approach: @Proceed: @Exit: � MOTORISTS Follow the lane use signs & pavement marking arrows. Get into the correct lane before entering the roundaboul Slow down to the posted advisory speed. Stop for pedestrians in the crosswaJk; they have the right of way. When entering the roundabout, yield to all circulating vehicJes in both lanes. Wait for a gap and then merge into traffic in the roundaboul Traffic in a roundabout always circulates counterclockwise. Maintain your lane as you enter the roundabout. Continue circling through the roundabout until you reach the roadway onto which you want to turn. Oo not change lanes in the roundabout. Signal, then bear right to exit the roundabout. Stop for pedestrians in the crosswaJk. • Pwnila � .... ........ � o- ...... .,_. 81. n..1M R<><JIW!IINIUI •Please note that these roundabout diagrams are examples only and do not represent all roundabout designs. -0 =0iilEm @J SAFETV GUIDEUNES This Section Covers Entering the Car ................................................... 38 Steering ................................................................. 38 Fog ......................................................................... 38 Hydroplaning ........................................................ 38 Skidding ................................................................ 38 Curves ................................................................... 38 Leaving the Roadway ........................................... 39 Tire Blow-Out...................................................... 39 Winter Driving ...................................................... 39 Carbon Monoxide ................................................ 39 Steering Locks .................................................... 40 Following Too Closely .......................................... 40 Speed and Stopping Distance ............................ 40 Expressway Driving ............................................. 40 Entering Expressways.......................................... 40 Exiting Expressways ........................................... 40 Use of Lanes on Expressways ............................ 40 Gores .................................................................. 40 HOV Lanes........................................................... 40 Tips for Expressway Driving................................ 40 Other Highway Emergencies..............................................41 Protecting the Air ................................................. 41 Idling Engines ....................................................... 41 ffRE PRESSURE Prior to entering vehicle check tire pressure using recommended psi located in the door jam of the vehicle. Use a tire pressure gauge to check your psi. If your psi is above the mun ber listed on your door jam, let air out until it matches. [f below, add air (or have a retailer help you) until it reaches the proper number. You may also measure tread depth using the penny test. Once every month, or before you embark upon a long road trip, check your tires for wear and damage problems. One easy way to check for wear is by using the permy test. 1. Take a penny and hold Abraham Lincoln's body between your thumb and forefinger. 2. Select a point on your tire where the tread appears the lowest and place Lincoln's head into one of the grooves. 3. If any part of Lincoln's head is covered by the tread, you're driving with the legal and safe amount of tread. If your tread gets below that (approximately 2/32 of an inch), your car's ability to grip the road in adverse conditions is greatly reduced. Traffic laws alone cannot regulate every type of driving situation that may occur. There are some general rules which drivers should under stand and follow. Read this chapter with care. Someday these safety tips might help you avoid a crash, serious injury, or even death. These are only general statements and cannot dictate your actions in all situations. It is up to you to evalu ate the situation and make a determination as to the best course of action. Entering the Car • Develop a routine for entering the car safely and preparing for your trip. U you are parked on the street, enter from the curb side of the vehicle. If this is not possible, wait w1til your entry can be made with reasonable safety and without interfering with the flow of traffic; • Have your keys ready, and approach the ve hicle facing traffic; • Adjust your seat and mirrors; • Check passengers to be sure they are properly seated and do not interfere with your view; • Before starting your ignition, fasten your scat belt and make sure your passengers do the same; • After starting your vehicle, check around your vehicle for hazards or approaching traf fic, including bicyclists and pedestrians, give the proper signal and move cautiously into the stream of traffic. Steering Good posture while driving is important because it allows a better view of hazards and more control of the vehicle. As a general rule, when gripping the steering wheel, place your left hand at the 9 o'clock position and your right hand at the 3 o'clock position on the wheel. Some manufacturers recommend placing your hands at 8 o'clock and 4 o'clock positions when the vehicle is equipped with air bags. Check your owner's manual or contact your vehicle manu facturer to determine which position is best for your vehicle. Always keep both hands on the wheel unless you are safely performing another driving-related task, such as activating your turn signal. Fog If possible, avoid driving in heavy fog. If you must drive, follow these guidelines: • Reduce driving speed; • Reduce speed further when you see head lights or red tail Lights. These indicate the presence of another vehicle and, due to fog, it may be more diffi ult to accurately judge the distance between your vehicle and others; • Dim your headlights. Bright lights produce a glare in heavy fog, actually making it more difficult to see than when using regular headlights; • Do not drive with parking or hazard lights on. 38 fl ► Hydroplaning Hydroplaning occurs when there is standing water on a roadway. At speeds up to 35 mph, most tires will channel water away from the tire similar to the way a windshield wiper cleans the windshield. As your speed increases, tires cannot channel the water as welJ, and your tires may start to lose contact with the road and ride over the water like a set of water skis. In a standard passenger car, partial hydroplan ing can begin at speeds as low as 35 mph. At 55 mph, the tires may lose all contact with the road. Jf this occurs, there is no friction avail able to brake, accelerate, or steer. It is possible for the vehicle to go into an unpredictable and uncontrollable skid. If this occurs, take your foot off of the accelerator, letting the car slow down. To prevent hydroplaning, maintain good tires with adequate water-channeling thread on your vehicle. Most importantly, slow down when there is water on the roadway. Skidding A car skids when its tires lose their grip on the road surface. When a car skids, both the power that the engine sends to the wheels and the braking ability of the wheels are lost. Slick surfaces can exaggerate normal movements. Tf brakes are applied too hard, or the wheel is turned too sharp, a skid can occur. If you start to skid: • ease your foot off of the accelerator; • begin turning the steering wheel in the direc tion of the skid; • once you have regained control of the veltlcle, you can lightly apply brakes and steer in a safe direction. Remember, the first half-hour of rainfall is the most dangerous because roadways become extremely slippery when the water mixes with oil and other chemicals on the road surfaces. Curves urves in a roadway are potential sources of hazard for drivers. Because of the maneuvering involved, it is more likely that a less cautious driver may fail to maintain their lane while driving through a curve. When roadways are slick because of rain or other hazards, curves can be especiaily dangerous and require much lower speeds than when the road is dry. Sharper curves are usually marked with a safe mile per-hour sign. Usually less than the posted speed limit, these advisory signs indicate that the reduced speed shown will make driving through a curve safer.

SECTION 8: SAFETY GUIDELINES - Reduce your speed before entering these curves. If, while driving through the curve, you realize that you are traveling too fast, do not forcefully apply brakes because this may cause your vehicle to skid. Instead, take your foot off the accelerator, carefully apply the brake, and continue steering in the lane of travel. Leaving the Roadway Uneven terrain and obstacles make it difficult to safely maneuver a vehicle once it has left the roadway. Serious injury or death can result from a crash if this happens. To avoid leaving the roadway while driving, pay attention to road conditions. Drive at or be low the speed indicated on a regulatory sign or an advisory sign indicating potential hazards. Drive defensively, being mindful of the actions of drivers around you. If your vehicle leaves the roadway, try to fol low these guideline • Don't panic; • Take your foot off the accelerator; • Grip the steering wheel tightly and be pre pared to withstand sudden shocks; • Don't hit the brake pedal suddenly and hard; use your brakes carefully; • Don't try to turn back onto the pavement im mediately. Overcompensating ("jerking the Winter Driving Winter weather can create many driving hazards. Because of the usually mild climate, most Georgians arc not experienced in driving in winter weather. Here are several ugge tions to help you drive safely in winter weather: • Use chains or snow tires if road conditions require extra traction. Always check the manufacturer's instruction manual for your vehicle, the tires, and the chains before in stalling them on your vehicle and operating on a roadway; • Keep windows clear. Remove snow and ice from aJI window surfaces before operating the vehicle on a roadway; • When you first enter the roadway, and if it is safe to do so, get a "feel" for the road. Test your brakes gently. Determine how your vehicle will respond to turning the wheel by making slight adjustments. Never apply sudden braking. Instead, slow down gradu ally before you come to an intersection, make a turn, or stop; • Keep a safe distance between you and other vehicles; • Redu e speed a cording to conditions; • Watch for hazards or changing road condi tions ahead. wheel") when returning to the roadway can Tips for Safe Winter Driving cause you to lose control of your vehicle by • et your car rviced routinely. skidding or flipping, or may also cause your car to gointo other lane of traffic; • Check your battery. • Check your cooling system. • Fill your windshield washer reservoir. • Check your windshield wipers and defrosters. • Verify floor mat installation to prevent pedal interference. • Inspect your tires. • Check the age of your tires. • Know your car. • Plan your travel and route. • Stock your vehicle with necessary tools and supplies. • Learn what to do in a winter emergency. Carbon Monoxide Car produce carbon monoxide, a deadly odorless and colorless gas. Symptoms of car bon monoxide poisoning are udden wearin s, yawning, dizziness, and nausea. Simple precau tions to avoid carbon monoxide are: • Don't leave the car motor running in a garage; • Don't leave the car motor running and the window closed while the car i parked; • Don't operate the heater or air conditioner in a parked car with the windows closed; • Don't drive with a defective muffler or ex hau t sy tern. • Wait until your speed has reduced, check the traffic, and look for a place to safely re turn to the roadway by merging into traffic. If nece sary, come to a complete stop before re-entering the roadway. DNERGING DIAMOND INJERCHANGE Tire Blow-Out Unlike a slow leak which may cause a tire to go fl.at over time, a blow-out occurs when the tire ruptures and goes Aat immediately. If this occur while your vehicle i in motion, it can cause you to lose control. If you experience a sudden tire blow-out, do not panic. Follow these guideline to maintain control of the vehicle. • Apply brakes lightly if necessary and safe todo so; • Grasp the steering wheel firmly and take your foot off the accelerator to allow the ve hicle to roll to a top; • Do not move to the shoulder of the road until the car has slowed greatly. If the blow-out causes the car to swerve on to the shoulder, do not try to get back on the pavement. Let the car coast to a stop. See the guideline above for what to do when your vehicle leave the roadway. A Diverging Diamond Interchange (DOI) shifts traffic flow to the opposite side of the road to allow vehicles to enter the freeway by turning left onto an on-ramp without stopping. This reduces points of conflict and improves traffic flow and safety. The DOI is a proven, cutting edge, low-cost design that provides immediate traffic relief. Under normal, free-flowing traffic conditions on surrounding high ways, the DOI can reduce delays in eve ning rush hours up to 20 percent. Scan this QR code to view an Informative video about Diverging Diamond Interchanges - SECTION 8: SAFETV GUIDEUNES Move a victim of carbon monoxide poisoning to fresh air, contact emergency medical services, and give artificial respiration if it is necessary and you are trained to do so. Steering Locks Steering locks are anti-theft devices found in most cars manufactured since 1969. Steering locks can cause dangerous situations for drivers who arc not familiar with their opera tion. If a vehicle's ignition is placed in the Jock position whjle the vehicle is in motion, the steer ing capability of the vehicle will be disabled, and the driver will be unable to steer the vehicle. Further information concerning steering locks is available from the Automobile Safety Foundation at www.carsafe.org. Following Too Closely A rear-end crash is caused by following an other vehicle too closely. When following an other vehicle on any street or highway, there must be enough distance for you to safely stop if the vehicle in front of you suddenly slows down or stops. One way to determine if there is enough distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you is to measure the amount of time between when the vehicle in front of you passes a reference point and when your vehicle passes the same reference point Watch the car ahead of you. When it passes a reference point, such as a telephone pole or street sign, count "one-thousand-one, one-thousand-two." Tf you pass the same spot before you are through counting, you are following too c.losely. Ouring inclement weather, during construction, during heavy traffic, and always at rught, the distance between yow- vehicle and the vehlcle in front of you should be even greater. Speed and Stopping Distance The distance it takes to stop your vehlcle is important in determining a safe driving speed. The chart below may be used as a guide, but actual stopping distance can depend on the following factors in addition to vehicle speed: :2'0rnpll IIOm¢, Estimated Emergency Stopping D]s1ance oi:,nv-11 RJ1 ari ll _ c• i ,tD n, ltCI 110 n t IICi liCil ffl 10I • Mental and physical reaction of the driver; • 'fype and condition of the pavement; • Kind of tires and tread composition; • Chassis (frame) design; • Type of brakes, condition, and balance of brakes; • Wind direction and velocity. Speed is a leading factor in serious injury and death as a result of traffic crashes. The greater the speed, the greater the force of impact. The illustration below conveys the relative force of impact when you strike a fixed object. Strilking something at these speeds is like driving off a one, four or nine tory building Expressway Driving EE EE EB OOMPH An expressway differs from normal roads or highways in that access to it is controlled. Vehlcles can only enter and exit the expressway at specific places known as interchanges. Mo t expressways in Georgia are free, but there are a few that require a toll. With the exception of the controlled enter/ exit points and HOV lanes, expressways are simila1· to h·aveling on a divided hlghway. There is a median separating traffic traveling in op posite directions; lanes are marked with dashed lines, and the edge of the roadway is marked with a solid line; slower traffic should keep to the right; and all traffic laws and g uidelines associated with safe driving still apply. Entering Expressways The entrance ramp is a short one-way road that leads to the expressway. From the entrance ramp, you should move into the acceleration lane. This is the lane that runs alongside the main roadway. In the acceleration lane, you can adjust your speed to the speed of the ex pressway traffic. When safe to do so, you should merge into traffic. Vehicles on the expressway have the right of way, but courteous drivers will permit you to move into the expressway traffic. Exiting Expressways Prepare to exit a controlled access highway by safely moving to the right lane for an exit on the right, or the left lane for an exit on the left.. Guide signs will tell you of the approaching exit At the exit, deceleration lanes are provided for slowing down when leaving the expressway. Posted exit speeds are usually low due to the design of the roadway. Drivers should use either brake lights or a turn signal to indicate a change in speed to the drivers behind if slowing down in the traveling lane when preparing to exit. 40 fl ► Use of Lanes on Expressways Drivers operating vehicles on divided high ways must drive to the right of the median w1- less directed to do otherwise by a sign, traffic control device, or police officer. Drivers must obey the yellow or white striping on the roadway that indicates Janes, the convergence of Janes, or areas in which vehicles shouJd not operate. Drivers may only access or exit controlled-access roadways at designated entrances and exits. Gores The term "gore" means the area of conver gence between two lanes of traffic. The gore is the area, usually similar to a triangle, formed by solid white lines between an existing lane of travel and a merging lane of travel. Gores are most often seen at the convergence of an ac celeration lane and the adjacent travel lane on a controlled access highway. The gore is the area bounded by solid white lines between the ac celeration lane and the adjacent travel lane. Drivers entering the controlled access hlghway are prohibited by law from crossing this solid white line, and are required to continue travel ing in the acceleration lane until the solid white Line disappears. HOV Lanes High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes are travel lanes that are restricted to vehlcles with more than one occupant, buses, motorcycles, and vehicles with Alternative Fuel Vehicle license plates. The lanes are marked with a diamond symbol and the how-s of restriction are posted. The penalty for violating HOV lane restrictions is a fine up to $75 for a first offense; up to $100 for a second offense; up to $150 for a third offense; and up to $150 plus one point added to the violator's driving record for a fourth or subsequent offense. HOVLANES Double White Lines (No Entry) Dashed White Line (You _ fay Enter) HOT Lanes High Occupancy Toll (HOT) lanes are 1-85 Express Lanes that allow registered transit, three or more person carpool, motorcycles, emergency vehicles, and Alternative Fuel Vehicles to use the lanes toll-free. Tips For Expressway Driving • Plan your trip carefully. Mark the map to indicate all entrances, service areas, and exits you plan to use. Doing these things will help you to have a safe, fast, and pleasantjoumey. You can check the website www.511ga.org for road construction, road closures, exit numbers, and other information to help plan your trip; • Check your car before you start. Because expressways are designed for faster and smoother flowing traffic, there are fewer places to exit. It is important to check your gasoline gauge and make sure you have enough fuel. Also check the water, oil, and tires of your vehicle; • Be alert. Use your rear view mirror and side mirror to constantly check the traffic around you. Always make visual traffic checks before you change lanes; • Stay out of another driver's blind spot. Travel ing in a position where the driver ahead of you cannot observe your vehicle in the rear view or side mirrors is a dangerous practice; the driver might pull out in front of you to pass a car. Either stay far enough behind so that the other driver can see you, or pass the vehicle. This is especially true for driving near large vehicles. Tractor-trailer combina tions,also known as "eighteen-wheelers",are limited in their visibility because of their size; • Use turn signals. Be sure to activate your right or left tum signal to indicate that you are changing lanes BEFORE you begin the maneuver; • Allow plenty of room when passing. Return ing to your lane of travel before you have passed another vehicle and provided enough safe distance between the two can cause a crash. Carefully check the left lane behind you before pulling out to pass. Don't pull back into the right-hand lane until you can see the car that you just passed clearly in your rear view mirror; • Always obey the p osted maximum and minimum speed limits. These laws exist to regulate the flow of traffic and to create a safe environment for all drivers; • In metro areas, expressways will usually have a dramatically increased amount of traffic during the hours that most drivers are traveling to and from their places of employ ment. The number of cars on the expressway during this time will lead to delays. During this time, drivers should be particularly cau tious. Driving defensively, allowing a safe distance between vehicles, and obeying all traffic control signs and devices can help en sure a safe commute; • Don't back up. Driving in reverse on an ex pressway is prohibited under any circum stances; • Stopping on the expressway is prohibited. You will find rest areas and service signs at frequent intervals; use them. Stopping on the roadway shoulder is highly dangerous and permitted only in an emergency. Switching drivers, sh·etching, or retrieving an item from the back of the vehicle is NOT considered an emergency. If it is necessary to stop, raise SECTION B: SAFETY GUIDELINES---- OTHER HIGHWAY EMERGENCIES • Apply mud, dirt, dust or snow. Check ditch for water. • Use hub cap to carry water to wet apparel. • Loosen dirt with tire tool to throw on fire. Accelerator Jammed • Slap the pedal with foot. • Shift to neutral. • Concentrate on steering. • Use brakes. • Turn off ignition (not to lock}. the hood and activate your hazard lights to indicate difficulty. Don't walk along the ex pressway in search of help; • Drowsiness and fatigue is a danger anytime you drive, but is especially dangerous on long trips along the expressway. Stop driving if you feel drowsy. Don't rely on stimulant drugs (also called Stay Awake Drugs). They are likely to make your driving even more hazardous. Expressway drivers are subject to "highway hypnosis," a condition of drowsiness or un awareness brought on by monotony, the sound of the wind, the tires on the pavement, and the steady hum of the engine. On long trips it is a good idea to "exercise your eyes" to help keep you alert. Keep shifting your eyes from one area of the roadway to another and focus on various objects, both near and far, left and right. Conversation with other passengers and lively radio programs may also help you re main more alert. Ofcourse,always pay atten tion to the traffic around you and potentially hazardous highway conditions; • Drive defensively. The key to defensive driv ing is awareness. You must keep your eyes moving so that you can keep track of what is happening around you at all times. Avoid staring at the center line on the roadway. In stead, look ahead for h-ouble spots which may endanger you or your passengers. A defensive driver will also frequently check the rear view and side mirrors to keep abreast of the traf fic and road conditions to the rear and sides; • Never trust other drivers to do what you think they are going to do or what you think they should do in a particular situation. The fact that a left tum signal is Aashing does not nec essarily mean that the driver is going to make a left turn. You should constantly be thinking of an "escape route" as you drive. For example, ifyou are approaching a curve, you should be looking closely at the shoulder and nearby area to determine what you would do if a car approaching from the other direction crosses to your side of the road. After a little practice this will become more instinctive. Protecting the Air The operation of motor vehicles has a signifi cant impact on Georgia's air quality. Emissions from cars and light duty trucks contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone, a com- Brakes Fail • Shift to lower gear. • Use parking brakes. • Rub tire on the curb. • Look for a safe area to slow to a stop. Wet Brakes • Test brakes lightly after driving through deep water. Brakes may pull to one side or may not hold at all. • Dry brakes by driving slowly in low gear while applying brakes lightly. ponent of urban smog. Vehicle emissions can react with sunlight at high temperatures to produce unhealthy levels of this form of air pollution. This is especially true during warm weather. Vehicle emissions and ground-level ozone can be reduced by proper vehicle main tenance in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, and by fewer trips and vehicle miles traveled. In the thirteen-county metro Atlanta area, gasoline-powered cars and light-duty trucks that are less than 25 model years old must pass an emissions inspection every year prior to registering their vehicle with the county of re idence (the most recent three model years are exempt from this requirement). The thirteen metro cow1ties covered by the state's inspection and maintenance program are: Cherokee, Clay ton, Cobb, Coweta, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry, Paulding and Rockdale. For more detailed information about the emissions inspection program, call the Georgia Clean Air Force at 1-800-449-2471. Remember removing or disabling a vehicle's emissions control components is a violation of federal and state law. Tn addition to prop er vehicle maintenance, you can help reduce air pollution and traffic congestion by limiting driving to necessary travel, by pla.tuting ahead to consolidate trips, and by using carpools, transit and ridesharing. All drivers should do their part to reduce the impact ofautomobiles and trucks on air quality and the environment. Idling Engines Minimize your idling time. Eliminating un necessary idling can reduce fuel consumption, engine wear and air pollution. When warm ing up the engine, follow the manufacturer's guidelines to assure sufficient engine p erfor mance for safe driving. Idling a vehicle for 10 seconds will consume more fuel than restart ing the engine. For more information on emissions test ing regulations & protecting Georgia's air quality: • www.cleanairforce.com; • www.cleanaircampaign.com; • www.gefa.org -0 =0iilEm@ SHARING THE ROAD This Section Covers Sharing the Road With Pedestrians ................... 42 Georgia's Law Concerning Pedestrians ............. . 42 Crosswalks.......................................................... 42 Respect Crosswalks............................................ 42 Blind Pedestrians ................................................ 42 Always Remain Alert for Pedestrians When Driving................................... 42 Turning Right at a Red Traffic Signal... ................ 42 Passing Stopped cars in Lanes of Travel.. ........... 42 Exiting and Entering Driveways .......................... 42 Vehicle Speed ...................................................... 42 Sharing the Road With Bicycles .......................... 42 Important Reminders Concerning Bicycle Riders ...................................................... 43 Arm Signals Used by Bicyclists ........................... 43 Sharing the Road With Motorcycles ................... 43 Allow a Full Lane................................................. 43 Road Conditions ..................................................43 Intersections ....................................................... 43 Following Too aose ............................................ 43 Passing and Being Passed .................................. 43 Partners on the Road .......................................... 43 Sharing the Road With School Buses ................ 44 Sharing the Road With Commercial Motor Vehicles................................ 44 Sharing the Road With Pedestrians While there has been an increase of motor vehicles on our roads, the number of persons traveling by foot is also growing. According to the Georgia Department of Transportation, pedestrians account for almost 15% of motor vehicl s deaths. In 2016, Georgia had a 15% in crease in pedestrian deaths. Distractions are believed to be a contributing factor. It is critical that pedestrians and motorists pay attention to safely share the road. Georgia's Law Concerning Pedestrians The driver of a vehicle shall stop and remain stopped to allow a pedestrian to cross the road way within a crosswalk: • When the pedestrian is upon the half of the roadway on which the vehicle is traveling, or when the pedestrian is approaching and is within one lane of the half of the roadway on which the vehicle is traveling or onto which it is turning. "Half of the roadway" means aU traffic lanes carrying traffic in one direc tion of travel; • When making a left or right tum at any in tersection; • At stop signs, after coming to a complete stop and before proceeding; • At traffic signals, even when the light is green, if pedestrians are still in the crosswalk; • When entering a street or highway from an alley, driveway, or private road; • When approaching a blind person who is crossing a street or highway if he/she is car rying a white cane or being guided by a dog. Crosswalks Crosswalks exist on all four corners of in tersections even when they are not marked by painted lines. A crosswalk is the part of the pave ment for pedestrian traffic where the sidewalk would extend across the street Crosswalks can also exist mid-block if they are marked. Respect Crosswalks When pedestrians are in crosswalks, they have the right of way over motor vehicles. Do not block crosswalks. When stopping at red lights or stop signs, always stop your vehicle before the crosswalk so pedestrians can cross safely. Even at crosswalks without traffic signals, drivers must stop and remain stopped for pe destrians in the crosswalk when the pedesh·ian is upon the half of the roadway or approaching and within one lane of the half of the roadway upon which the vehicle is traveling. "Half of the roadway" means all traffic lanes carrying traffic in one direction of travel. Blind Pedestrians Pedestrians using guide dogs or white walk ing canes must be given the right of way at aU times. Always Remain Alert for Pedestrians When Driving Look for pedestrians on both sides of the street when approaching intersections, when turning, or near schools, parks, bus stops and other places people are likely to walk. Look behind your car for children or other pedes trians before backing up in driveways and parking lots. Turning Right at a Red Traffic Signal Before turning right on red, drivers must come to a full and complete stop before the crosswalk. Do not block the crosswalk when waiting to make a right turn at a red light This puts pedestrians at risk, forcing them to walk around your vehicle. After looking to your left to find a gap in traffic, you must look to your passenger side to ensure a pedestrian is not crossing in front of your vehicle. 42 f L ► Passing Stopped Cars in Lanes of Travel Use extreme caution when passing stopped cars on multi-lane roads. A pedestrian you can't see may be crossing in a marked or unmarked crosswalk. This is a frequent cause of serious or fatal pedestrian injuries. When you stop at a crosswalk on a multi-lane road, stop at least 10 feet before the crosswalk so a driver in the next lane can see the pedestrian. Exiting and Entering Driveways When exiting or entering a driveway, alley, or parking garage, drivers must stop before the sidewalk area and proceed only after pedestri ans have safely passed. Drivers waiting to tum left into a driveway must wait not only for a gap in oncoming traffic, but also for pedesh·ians to finish crossing the sidewalk portion of the driveway. Vehicle Speed Pedestrians are less protected from the hatm ful effects of a crash than occupants of motor vehicles. The risk of serious or fatal pedestrian injuries increase exponentially with driver speed. The chart above illush·ates the effect of speed upon a pedestrian who is struck by a motor vehicle. When a pedestrian is struck by a motor vehicle traveling 40mph, the risk of pedestrian death is at least 80%. Sharing the Road With Bicycles Bicycle riding is an important type of h·a portation, particularly for traveling to work and to school. Because bicyclists may be on any road at any time, drivers must always be alert for bicycle traffic. Bike-car crashes often happen because driv ers do not see bicyclists soon enough. In Georgia, as in other states, most crashes occur during daylight hours on straight, dry roads, typicaUy near intersections or driveways. Bicyclists are legally entitled to use every road in Georgia except the interstate and inter state-like highways (limited access highways). The law allows bicyclists use of the full lane. They a.re not required to be in a bike lane even when one is present Although their slower pace may slow motorists occasionally, it is important for drivers to respect the bicyclist's right to be there. Yield the right of way to the bicyclist in the same way that you would yield to another motorist. If possible, make eye contact with the bicyclist, especially at intersections. Road defects cause more problems for bi cycles than for cars. When passing a bicycle rider, leave the bicyclist plenty of room in case he or she has to swerve to miss a pothole or other danger in the road. The minimum legal space for a motorist to pass a bicyclist is 3 feet Tips for Trailering...................................44 Important Reminders Concerning Bicycle Riders Motorists should approach bicycles with due caution and shall proceed as follows: (Violation is a misdemeanor punishable bya fine up to$250.00). Make a lane change into a lane not adjacent to the bicycle if possible in the existing road and traffic conditions OR If a lane change is impossible, prohibited by law, or unsafe, reduce the speed of the motor vehicle to a reasonable and proper speed for the traffic conditions, which speed shall be at least ten miles per hour less than the posted speed limit or 25 miles per hour, whichever is more and proceed around the bicycle with at least three feet between the vehicle and the bicycle at all times. STATE LAW +3+ + F'EET "MINIMUM • Watch for bicyclists who may appear to suddenly swerve or tum in front of you. Bicyclists sometimes forget or do not have the opportunity to merge left due to traffic speed, in order to be in the left tum position.; • Night time bicyclists will not always have lights, and some may not even have rcllcctors. Ifyou meet an onroming bicyclist, please dim your lights to avoid blinding the bicyclist. • Bike lanes and any other bicycle infrastructure are for the use of bicycles only. Motorists are not to drive or park in a bike lane. • Bicyclists are able to pass on the right side of motorists if there is a dedicated lane or sufficient room in a shared lane, and it is safe to do so. Arm Signals Used by Bicyclists Bicyclists should use their arms to signal to other motorists when they are going to make a tum, and the direction of the tum or when they are slowing or stopping. The signals used by bicyclists are listed below: . -... 111LI! Tilffl '-i Rlthclllm I.Al.trmlt l SECDON fJ: SHARING THE ROAD ____ SHARING THE ROAD WITH MOTORCYCLES Today's motorcycle riders are friends, relatives, and neighbors, but many car drivers still have not adjusted to motorcycles appearing in traffic. Traveling by motorcycle is appealing to some people; they are fuel and space efficient and can be fun to ride. Motorcyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as automobile drivers. While everyone must follow the same traffic laws, motorcyclists face additional dangers because motorcycles require exceptional handling ability and motorcyclists are more vulnerable to injury and death than car drivers if involved in a crash. It is important to understand more about motorcycle operation. From ahead or behind, a motorcycle's outline, whether 2 or 3 wheels, is much smaller than a passenger vehicle's outline, and most drivers expect to see larger vehicles on the road and are not looking for motorcycles. The small profile of the motorcycle may make it appear farther away and traveling slower than it actually is. Drivers need to take a second look, and then a third. Always make a visual check (mirrors, too) of blind spots before entering or leaving a lane of traffic and at intersections. Be alert for a motorcyclist to appear unexpectedly. Allow a Full Lane Motorcycles are allowed the full width of a lane in which to maneuver. Although it may seem that there is enough room in the traffic lane for a motor vehicle and a motorcycle, the motorcycle needs the room to maneuver safely. Do not share the lane. Understand that motorcyclists may adjust lane position for their own safety, not to be reckless or show off. Motorcyclists often adjust position within a lane to be seen more easily or to minimize the effects of road debris, passing vehicles, or other conditions. Often, this means riding in the left portion of the traffic lane to allow a better view of some traffic and road situations. It also makes the motorcycle more visible to other traffic. However, as traffic and road conditions change, the rider may move. This move could be to the center of the lane or even to the right side to avoid traffic or to be seen by others on the road. Road Conditions Remember that road conditions which are minor annoyances to motorists can pose major hazards to motorcyclists. Motorcycle riders may change speed or adjust position within a lane suddenly In reaction to road and traffic conditions such as potholes, gravel, wet or slippery surfaces, pavement seams, railroad crossings, and grooved pavement. Intersections Intersections are the most likely places for car/motorcycle crash to occur. This usually is the result of a car driver NOT SEEING the motorcycle and turning Into the motorcycle's path. Misinterpreting a rider's intentions can also lead to crashes. The rider will move to one side of the lane in preparation for a turn or possibly to move away from a hazard unseen by other motorists. Do not assume the rider's intention until the maneuver is unmistakably started, such as a tum into an intersection or driveway. Don't be fooled by a flashing tum signal on a motorcycle- motorcycle signals may not be self-canceling and motorcyclists sometimes forget to turn them off. Wait to be sure the rider is going to tum before you proceed. Following Too Close Allow more following distance -- three or four seconds - when following a motorcycle so the motorcycle rider has enough time to maneuver or stop in an emergency. Space between the two vehicles should be increased to avoid sudden braking. In dry conditions, motorcycles can stop more quickly than cars. Both riders and drivers are more likely to make incorrect decisions if there is not enough stopping distance or ability to see and react to conditions. This leads to crashes. A rider's chance of injury is greater if forced to avoid obstacles ahead, as well as a driver following too closely. Passing and Being Passed The rules for passing other vehicles are similar for motorcycles. The motorist being overtaken by a motorcycle should maintain lane position and speed. Allow the motorcyclist to complete the pass and assume proper lane position as quickly as possible. When passing a motorcycle, allow a full lane to the motorcycle. Never crowd into the same lane as the motorcycle. Returning to the original lane too soon can force a rider to swerve to the right Into traffic or off the road. Partners on the Road What all this means is, motorcycles are full partners in the traffic mix and must be treated with the same courtesies. Watch for the unexpected and give them their share of the road; a rider may be the neighbor next door. E ,...-�.This section Is designed to encourage drivers of all other kinds ol O � ...:.�vehlctes and motorcyclsts to "share the road" with each other and Is , prO'llded throu� the courtesy of the Motorcycle Safety Follldatlon � and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. • rill ���·� .... --sECTION 9: SHARING THE ROAD Sharin_g_the Road W"lth Schoorsuses In most cases, all drivers are required to stop when approaching or meeting a stopped school bus that has its lights flashing and is loading or unloading passengers. The exception to this rule is when highways are separated in the center by median strips. In this situation, only vehicles following or traveling alongside a school bus in the same direction must stop. A warning will be given in advance by the flashing red or amber lights on the front and rear ofthebus. After stopping,you must remain stopped until the bus resumes motion or deac tivates its warning signals AND all loading or unloading passengers have cleared the roadway. GEORGIA FINES & PENAL.TIES • Mandatory court apearance; • Up to 6 points on driving record; • Up to $1000 fine; • A conviction under 21 years of age constitutes license suspension. Sharing the Road With Commercial Motor Vehicles Commercial motor vehicles are vital to the economy of Georgia and the United States. Most of the products used in every day life were delivered to stores by commercial motor ve hicles. Drivers of commercial motor vehicles are trained, specially licensed driving professionals. Sharing the road with commercial motor v hicles is a necessary part of travel. Heavy trucks typically weigh80,000 pounds or more, and driv ers should use caution when di·iving near them. Everyone should be aware of the differ ences between trucks and cars and behave ac cordingly. These include: • A fully loaded tractor-trailer, traveling 55 mph, needs 3 times the distance a car needs to stop; • Large trucks are more difficult to maneuver, are longer and heavier, and require much more room to tum; • Large trucks have larger blind spots, called "No-Zones." The "No-Zone" represents the danger areas around trucks and buses where crashes are more likely to occur. Some No-zones are actual blind spots or areas around trucks and buses a where your car "disppears" from the view of the drivers. These blind spots are the Side Nozone, Rear No-Zone, and Front No-Zone areas. Tips for Trailering For many drivers, towing a trailer is a whole new experience with many challenges — here are a few tips to stay safe on the road. Take Your Time If You Lose Control, Stay Calm Stay Within Capacity Distribute the Weight Inspect Your Trailer Know Your Trailer and Practice Handling It Secure Your Load Maintain your Trailer and Vehicle Consider Tow Mirrors Get the Right Equipment Consider Additional Safety Equipment More information can be found at AAMVA.org on Safe Trailering. • Side o-Zones - Trucks and buses have big o-Zones (blind spots) on both sides. They are much larger than a car's blind spots. U you cannot see the driver's face in the side view mirror, the driver cannot sec you. The right ide No-Zone i particularly dangerous because truck and bus driver must make wide right turns. • Rear No-Zones - Unlike cars, trucks and busc have huge o-Zones directly behind them. Trucks and buses have no rear view mirror. The truck or bus driver cannot see your car there and you cannot see what is go ing on ahead of the truck or bus. rt is critical to keep a safe distance behind a truck or bus in case the driver slows or stops suddenly. • Front o-Zones - Trucks and bu require more room and time to stop than cars. Be cause of this, more space hould be given in front of trucks and buses. It is not safe to "cut in front" of a truck and then slow down. To avoid the Front No-Zone, make sure that you can ee the entire front of the truck or bus in your rear-view mirror before you merge or pull into that lane of traffic. In the illustration on the previous page, the commercial motor vehicle's blind pots, or "No Zones," are highlighted in blue. These are areas to avoid when sharing the road with a truck or bus. THE GEORGIA TACT PROJECT Targeting Aggressive Cars & Trucks Law Enforcement officers are stopping people who drive unsafe around commercial motor vehicles, whether they are driving a car or commercial motor vehicle. What to do to avoid getting a citation: • Don't cut off commercial motor vehicles. For safety, one car length for every 10 miles per hour of speed is recommended; • Don't tailgate. Unlike cars, commercial motor vehicles have big blind spots behind them. Also, car drivers who tailgate commercial motor vehicles can't see traffic ahead. If the commercial motor vehicle brakes suddenly, you have no time to react and no place to go; • Don't speed. Speed is a factor in nearly one-third of all fatal crashes; • Allow commercial motor vehicles plenty of room. Be careful when you or the commercial motor vehicle are entering a highway or merging with traffic. DONrr GET A cn-ATION •Reinstatements •Motor Vehicle Report ·Renewal ·Replacement ·Change of Address •Custom Alerts ·Locations ·Pay fees Gll 11 0� ,,,,.... Google Play •And More! -0=0ii1Emf/@ LOSING YOUR DRIVING PRIVILEGES This Section Covers Types of Withdrawals .......................................... 46 Reporting Convictions ......................................... 46 Types of Suspensions .......................................... 46 Implied Consent ....................................................47 The Points System ............................................... 48 Points Reduction ................................................. 48 Points Avoidance ................................................. 48 Safety Responsibility Law ...................................48 Mandatory Revocations ....................................... 48 Limited Driving Permits ...................................... 48 Commercial Driving Disqualifications............ ..49 Major Traffic VIOiations .......................................49 Serious Traffic Violations .................................... 49 Other Violations.................................................... 49 The State of Georgia consideIS dangerous and negligent drivers to be a direct and immediate threat to the welfare and safety of the general public, and it is in the best interest of the citizens of Georgia to immediately remove such drivers from the highways of this state. Therefore, the Department of Driver Services is authorized to withdraw the license or driving privileges when evidence is obtained that the licensee is a habitually dangerous or negligent driver of a motor vehicle (from Georgia law §40-5-57) Types of Withdrawals The driver's license of any individuaI, the eli gibility to obtain a driver's license, or the ability to legally operate a motor vehicle in th State of Georgia may be impacted by one or more of the following actions: Cancellation The Department of Driver Services is autho rized to cancel a license if the applicant fails to give the required or correct information needed at the time application is made, or if the indi vidual becomes otherwise ineligible after ap plication has been made. A resident may reapply for a License once the requirements have been satisfied and the resident is otherwise eligible. Revocation If a license is revoked, all driving privileges are terminated and withdrawn until the end of the period of time prescribed by the formal action of the Department. At the end of the re vocation period, a resident may apply for a new license. Non-residents may apply for reinstate ment of driving privileges. Suspension lf a license is suspended, all driving privi leges are temporarily withdrawn for a specific period of time or until reinstatement require- ments have been completed. At the end of the withdrawal period, a resident may apply for reinstatement and return of the license or the eligibility to obtain a license. Non-residents may apply for reinstatement of driving privileges. Disqualification of Commercial Driver's License lf a commercial driver's license is disquali fied, all privileges to operate a oommercial mo tor vehicle are withdrawn for a specific period of time. At the end of the disqualification period, if a licensee holds a CDL license that is not ex pired, the licensee's commercial privileges will be automatically restored without any action required, provided that the licensee is otherwise eligible to still maintain a commercial driver's license. If the licensee does not hold a CDL at the expiration of the disqualification period, the licensee's ability to apply for a CDL will be restored. A disqualification of commercial driving privileges does not, by itself, result in the sus pension or revocation of a licensee's privileges to operate a NO -commercial motor vehicle. However, many offenses that result in a com mercial disqualification also result in a non commercial suspension, though the periods of withdrawal may differ. In Georgia, it is possible to lose commercial driving privileges for LIFE upon the conviction of certain offenses. More information related to the commercial driver's license program is available on our website at dds.georgia.gov. Reporting Convictions Georgia courts are required by law to report the conviction of any offense that will result in a negative impact on a licensee's driving privilege or that is otherwise required to be posted to the permanent driving history of an individual. This includes most traffic-related offenses as well as certain non-traffic related offenses. When the DDS receives a conviction for a Georgia license holder, the record is updated to reflect the conviction. If a conviction is received for an individual who holds a license from an other state or is the resident of another state, the conviction information will be forwarded to the licensing authority of that state. lf a non resident, or a resident of Georgia who does not have a driver's license, is convicted of certain of fenses, the eligibility to obtain a Georgia driver's license and/or driving privileges in Georgia will be suspended. Convictions reported to the Georgia DDS by licensing authorities or courts in other states and nations will be pla ed on the driving record of a Georgia licensee or resident. The Department will treat such convictions as if they had oc curred in this state for the purpose of imposing license withdrawals. Types of Suspensions The Department will suspend the driving privileges of an individual in any of the follow ing non-conviction situations: • Refusal to take a chemical test for intoxica tion; • Failure to appear in court or respond to a citation; • Non-payment of Child Support; • Non-payment of the Super Speeder fee; • Safety responsibility; • Medical revocation; • Parent requested revocation (under age 18). The Department is required by law to su pend the privileges of an individual for a convic tion of any of the following offenses: • Homicide by vehicle; • Feticide by Vehicle (1st degree); • Serious injury by vehicle; • Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs; • Any felony in the commission of which a motor vehicle is used; • Using a motor vehicle in .fleeing or attempting to elude an officer; • Hit and run or leaving the scene of a crash; • Racing; • Operating a motor vehicle with a revoked, canceled, or suspended registration; • Driving without insurance; • Driving while license is suspended, revoked, or canceled; • Refusal to weigh commercial motor vehicle; • Violation of license restriction (at the discre tion of the triaI court). In addition to the offenses listed above, the li cense and/or driving privileges of an individual under the age of 21 on the date of the conviction will be suspended for the following offenses: • Reckless driving; • Aggressive driving; • Speeding 24 mph or more over the speed limit; • Unlawful passing of a school bus; • Improper passing on a hill or a curve; • Any 4-point offense; • Four or more points in 12 months prior to age 18; Implied Consent Georgia law requires you to submit to state administered chemical tests of your blood, breath, urine, or other bodily substances for the purpo e of determining if you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. U you refuse this testing, your Georgia driver's license or privilege to drive on the highways of this state wilJ be suspended for a minimum period of one year. Your refusal to submit to blood or urine testing may be offered into evidence at trial. U you submit to testing and the results indicate a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at or above the legal limit, your Georgia driver's license or privilege to drive on the highways of this state may be suspended for a minimum period of one year. After first ubmitting to the required state tests, you are entitled to additional chemi cal tests of your blood, breath, urine, or other bodily substances at your own expense and from qualified personnel of your own choosing. SECffON 10: LOSING YOUR DRIVING PRWILEGES ---- Violation Resulting in Conviction Violation of Hands Free Law - 1st Conviction Child Restraint-1st Offense HOV Lane Violation - 4th and Subsequent Offense Violation of Hands Free Law - 2nd Conviction Possessing an Open Container of an Alcoholic Beverage While Driving Speeding-15-18 mph over the posted speed limit Child Restraint - 2'1'i and Subsequent Offense Failure to Adequately Secure a Load Violation of Hands Free Law - 3rd or more Convictions Impeding Traffic Disobedience of Any Traffic-Control Device or Traffic Officer Speeding-19-23 mph over the posted speed limit All Other Moving Violations Reckless Driving Improper Passing on Hill or Curve Speeding - 24-33 mph over the posted speed limit Aggressive Driving Speeding - 34 mph or more over the posted speed limit Unlawful Passing School Bus � C) 0 Before Visiting Fill out your form. Points 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 3 3 3 4 4 4 6 6 6 Anytime. Anywhere. Any device. Fill out the form for your Permit, License or ID Card at this link https://dds.drives.ga.gov/ _j before arriving at any of our Customer Service Centers. 0 □ FASTER · SECURE · CONVENIENT · 24/7 Please remember to bring your parent or guardian and proof o f school enrollment when you come in for your visit. --sECTION 10: LOSING YOUR DRIVING PRIVILEGES The Points System The Department is required by law to sus pend the Georgia license of an individual for an accumulation of points resulting from certain convictions. Points are assessed against Georgia residents for out-of-state violations which would be assessed points if committed within Georgia. Georgia licenses will be suspended as follows: • For any person who accumulates 15 or more points within 24 months; • For any person under the age of 21 with a conviction for any 4-point violation; • For any person under 18 years of age with an accumulation of 4 points within twelve months. Points are accumulated on a person's driving record as a result of certain convictions. The adjacent chart lists these convictions and the number of points associated with each. The date the violation occurred is used as the basis for determining the 24-month period (or 12-month period for persons under age 18). When a license is suspended due to an accumulation of points, the point total is restored to zero. In the case of a person age 18 up to 21, the suspension of the license for a single 4-point offense is determined by the date the convic tion occurred. A plea of nolo contendere is con sidered a conviction for purposes of imposing suspensions that apply to persons under age 21. Points Reduction Licensed Georgia residents may request that DDS reduce the number of points assessed against their Georgia driver's license up to 7 points once every 5 years. To qualify for a points reduction, you must successfully complete a certified 6-hour driver improvement (defensive driving) course and present the original certificate o f c ompletion to the DDS by mail or in person at one of our Customer Service Centers. If you request a points reduction by mail, please mail the original driver improvement (defensive driving) certificate o f c ompletion to the Georgia Department of Driver Services, P.O. Box 80447, Conyers, Georgia 30013. A list of certified driver improvement (defensive driv ing) courses can be found at the following link: https://online.dds.ga.gov/ddsgeorgiagov/ locations/ driver-improvement-schoo Is. aspx. Points Avoidance A defendant may successfully complete a certified 6-hour driver improvement (defensive driving) course after the issuance of a citation for a moving violation and prior to the court appearance, or as ordered by the court When the original certificate of completion is pre sented to the court, the court shall reduce the fine assessed by 20 percent and no points shall be assessed against the driver. This plea may be accepted by the court once every five years. Safety Responsibility Law The purpose of this law is to remove irre sponsible drivers from Georgia highways and to protect insured motorists from uninsured motorists. In the event you should fail to sat isfy a claim for damage resulting from a motor vehicle crash, and a claim is 6Jed against you under the Safety Responsibility Law, you will receive an order suspending your license. To avoid the suspension, you may: • Have your insurance carrier file Form SR-21 with theDDS if you were covered by liability insurance at the time of the crash; or • File either a general or a conditional release that has been signed by the claimant (injured party in the crash) with theDDS; or • Post security to cover the damages with the DDS, which may be a cashier's check, certi fied check, money order, real property bond or surety bond, in addition to posting of fi nancial responsibility, Form SR-22A. Any security or bond posted with the Depart ment will be held for one year and thereafter until proof is furnished to the Department that you have not been sued as a result of the crash. You are entitled to a hearing, if desired, and if requested within ten (10) days of the receipt of the order of suspension. Mandatory Revocations Your driver's license will be revoked in Geor gia if any of the following occur: • You are declared a Habitual Violator based upon the third conviction of any combination of these offenses within 5 years: » Driving under the Influence (DUI); » Homicide by vehicle; » Felicide by vehicle; » Serious injury by vehicle; » Hit and run or leaving the scene of a crash; » Racing; » Using a motor vehicle in fleeing or at tempting to elude an officer; » Reckless Stunt Driving » Operating a motor vehicle with a sus pended, canceled, or revoked registration; » Any felony in the commission of which a motor vehicle is used; or • Refusal to submit to a re-examination of driv ing skills or knowledge of driving rules after receiving notice giving reasonable grounds for such a request; • Jf you have been declared incompetent or if there is sufficient evidence that you are un safe to drive, due to mental health or physical disability or disease, or by alcohol or drug addiction. If you are declared a Habitual Violator, you may be eligible for a Probationary License after serving two years of the revocation period. Limited Driving Permits In some situations, a limited driving permit may be available for a fee of $32 during the sus- 48 f l ► pension period. A limited driving permit would allow you to only: • Drive to your place of employment; • Receive scheduled medical attention or ob tain prescribed drugs; • Attend classes at a college or school in whkh you are enro!Jed as a student; • Attend regularly scheduled sessions or meet ings of support organiZations for the treat ment of alcohol or other drugs; • Attend a driver education program or alco hol/drug assessment and treatment program; • Attend court, report to a probation office or officer, or perform commwlity service; • Transport unlicensed immediate family members to work, medical care and to obtain prescriptions, and to school The Department may also specify the places you may travel to, specific routes of travel, times of travel, and indicate vehicles, or other restric tions deemed necessary. Limited driving permits are not valid for driving a commercial vehicle. A limited driving permit will be revoked by the Department if you arc convicted of violating any state law or local ordinance relating to the movement of vehicles or if you are convicted of violating any of the conditions or restric tions of your permit. In addition, a conviction will extend the underlying suspension of your driving privilege for an additional 6 months. Limited driving permits arc not available for convictions of the following offenses or in the following situations: • Implied Consent refusal (may be available if no priorDUI conviction within past 5 years); • No Insurance convictions; • Driving while license suspended convictions; • Failure to pay super speeder fee; • Failure to pay child support; • Failure to appear in court or respond to a citation; • Medical revocation; • Safety responsibility; • Parent requested revocation; • DUIDrugs • DUJ convictions prior to age 21; and • Refusal to weigh (CMV). A limited driving permit may be available in the following situations, depending on your age and the number of convictions on your driving record: • 1stDUI (non-drugs); • 2nd DU! conviction in 5 years; • DUIAIS; • Under 21 speeding violation but only if age 18 or older, speeding was 24-33 mph over the posted speed limit, and approved by the sentencing court judge; • 1st or 2nd suspension for accumulation of 15 or more points within a 24 month period; • 3rd controlled substance violation after a 2 year suspension and age 21 or over; • Homicide by vehicle 2nd Degree (age 21 or over); • Any felony in the commission of which a motor vehicle is used (age 21 or over); • Using a motor vehicle in fleeing or attempting to elude an officer (age 21 or over); • Fraudulent or fictitious use of, or application for, a license/ID card (age 21 or over); • Hit and run or leaving the scene of a a·ash (age 21 or over); • Racing (age 21 or over); • Operating a motor vehicle with a revoked, canceled, or suspended registration (age 21 or over); • If approved by the sentencing Court Judge involving license suspensions for certain drug offenses In all cases, the Department will make the final determination of eligibility for a limited driving permit Please contact DDS at 678-413-8400 for further infonnation. Commercial Driving Disqualifications When commercial driving privileges are di qualified, the licensee is prohibited from operat ing a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV). Com mercial driving privileges can be disqualified even if you do not have a commercial driver's license (CDL). lf you do not have a CDL, but your commercial driving privileges are disqualified, you will not be eligible to obtain a COL during the period of the disqualification. The commercial driving privileges can be withdrawn for: • Conviction of a Major traffic violation; • onviction of two or more Serious traffic violations; • Use of a CMV in the commission of any felo ny involving a controlled substance or mari juana (other than mer felony possession); • Violation of an out-of-service order; or • Conviction of a railroad grade crossing of fense in a CMV. Major Traffic Violations The commercial driving privileges of any person convicted of one of the following "major traffic violations" in this state, or any other state, in a commercial or, unless otherwise specified, a noncommercial vehicle will be disqualified for one year: • Driving a CMV if your BAC is .04 gm. or higher; • DUI; • Hit and run or leaving the scene of a crash; SECffON 10: LOSING YOUR DRIVING PRIVILEGES - • Failure to report striking an unattended vehicle; • Failure to report striking a fixed object; • Failure to report a crash; • Any felony in the commission of which a motor vehicle is used; • Driving a CMV while the CDL is revoked, suspended, canceled, or disqualified; • Homicide by vehicle; • Racing; • Using a motor vehicle in Aeeing or attempting to elude an officer; • Fraudulent or fictitious use of, or application for, a license/ID card; • Operating a motor vehicle with a revoked, canceled, or suspended registration; • Commercial vehicle cargo theft; or • Refusal to submit to state administered chemical testing when requested by a law enforcement officer. If convicted of any of these offenses while you arc operating a CMV that is placarded for hazardous materials, you will be disqualified from driving a CMV for at least three years for a first offense. A second conviction from a separate incident of any of these major traffic violations will re sult in a lifetime disqualification of cnmmercia1 driving privileges. Serious Traffic Violations Your commercial driving privileges will be disqualified for a period of 60 days upon a sec ond conviction in three years for a serious traffic violation (provided that the two convictions arose from separate incidents). Your commer cial driving privileges will be disqualified for a period of 120 days upon a third or subsequent conviction in three years for a serious traffic violation (provided that the various convictions arose from separate incidents). The following violations are defined as "seri ous traffic violations" when committed in this state, or any other state, when operating either a CMV or, unless otherwise specified, a noncom mercial motor vehicle: • Speeding 15 or more miles per hour above the posted speed limit; • Reckless driving; • Following another vehicle too closely; • Improper or erratic lane change, including failure to signal a lane change; • A violation of state law or a local ordinance relating to motor vehicle traffic control aris ing in connection with a fatal a-ash, excluding parking, weight, length, height, and vehicle defect violations, and excluding homicide by vehicle; • A railroad grade crossing violation in a non commercial motor vehicle; • Driving a commercial motor vehicle without obtaining a commercial driver's license; • Driving a commercial motor vehicle without a commercial driver's license in your imme diate possession, but not if it is because your commercial driving privileges have been su pended, revoked, canceled, or disquali£ied; • Driving a commercial motor vehicle without a commercial driver's license of the proper class and endorsements for the specific ve hicle you are operating or for the passengers or type of cargo you are transporting; • Use of a wireless device for text based com munications while operating a commercial motor vehicle. Other Violations A felony conviction involving the manufac turing, distribution, trafficking or possession of a controlled substance or marijuana using a CMV (other than mere felony possession) will result in a lifetime disqualification of commer cial driving privileges. Violation of an out-of-service order will result in a disqualification of: • not less than 180 days and not more than one year for a 1st offense; • not less than 2 years and not more than 5 years for a 2nd offense; and • not less than 3 years and not more than 5 years for a 3rd or subsequent incidents. An additional disqualification period will apply when an out-of-service order is violated while transporting hazardous materials or transporting more than 15 passengers. Conviction of any railroad grade crossing offense while operating a CMV will also result in a disqualification of 60 days for a 1st offense up to 1 year for a third or subsequent violation within a 3 year period. 0 =@uiEllJ flil CRASHES This Section Covers H You Are Involved In A Crash ............................. 50 Aiding the lnjured.......•..........................................50 Moving Vehicles Following a Crash ................... 50 Deer-Automobile Crashes ................................... 50 If You Are Involved In A Crash • Stop immediately in a safo place. • otify the near t law enforcement agency immediately if anyone is injured or killed, or if property damage exceeds $500.00; • Provide reasonable assistance to any person injured; • Warn approaching motori ts if you can do so without jeopardizing your own safety or that of others. Activate your haz.ard lights, if possible, and use reflective triangles, when available; • ive your name, addre , license plate num ber, and driver's license number to anyone else who was involved in the crash. Get the same information from the other driver; • lf you damage an unattended vehicle, you mu t either locate the owner or leave your name, address, and the name of the owner of the vehicle you were driving, in a con spicuous place where the owner will find it. Aiding the Injured I moved the vehicles, nor does moving the ve _________________ hides affect their ability to file a written report Do not assume that a person is not injured simply because that person says he/she is not. Send for profossional help as soon as possible. Unskilled handling can cause further and more severe injurie . Do not move or lift the victim unless it is absolutely necessary. Tf the victim is moved, get help and try to maintain the vic tim in the position in which they were found. Stop serious bleeding with thick cloth pads, as clean as possible, applied with pressure by hand. Keep the victim warm. over the victim with blankets or coats, if necessary. Georgia has a Good Samaritan Law. This law holds any person harmless for civil dam ages arising as a result of any act or omission in rendering emergency care. Moving Vehicles Following a Crash When a traffic crash occurs on a multilane highway or expre sway, and if th re i no ap parent serious injury or death, it is the duty of the drivers of the vehicles involved to move their vehicles from the roadway to a safe location along the shoulder, emergency lane, median, or any other safe refuge. Driver should only do this if the vehicles are capable of being driven normally and successfully, and driving the ve hicles will not present any further hazard or harm to the vehicles themselves, to the driver, to persons nearby, or to the roadway. If the person involved in the crash are inca pable of moving the vehicle , they are autho rized to request any other driver in the vicinity who has a valid license of the appropriate class to move their vehicles, and the other driver is authorized to comply. Drivers who take these important tep will not be con idered at fault simply because they with a local police agency. Moving a vehicle in this situation does not allow for the driver to be accused of failing to stop and provide information. Deer-Automobile Crashes Each year, deer cause thousands of crashes in Georgia. Understanding common habits of deer and knowing what to do when a deer runs out in front of the car can help to avoid serious era hes. Automobile era h data from the Geor gia Department of Transportation indicate that though deer-automobile crashes are on the rise, they till account for less than six percent of automobile era he reported ea h year. It is important to remember that deer are wild animals and their actions are unpredictable. The deer you see ca Imly standing on the side of the road may bolt toward the road rather than away from it if startled by a car. Follow th e guidelin to minimize the chances of a crash with a deer: • Ln areas with known deer populations, driv ers should constantly scan the road a11d road shoulders for deer movements and sightings; • Always low down when a deer crosses the road in front of you or another car. Deer usu ally travel in groups and it is likely that there is another one following closely behind; • lf a deer is spotted on the road or road ide at night, the driver should low down immedi ately, blink his/her headlight and switch to low beam so as not to blind the deer; • Also, short horn blasts may help scare the deer from the road. hould the deer or other animal run out in front of your car, slow down as much as po sible to minimize the damage of a era h. Never swerve to avoid a deer. This action may cause you to strike another vehicle or leave the road way, causing more damage or serious injuries. If you do have a era h, police hould be alerted as soon as possible. Most insurance companies will require an accident report from the police before paying claims for this type of crash. Deer are usually seen along the roadside during the early morning hours and late eve ni11g. Drivers should be alert for deer during these peak hours. Deer aremostactivein the fall months of October, November and December during the peak breeding season. Late February and early March arealso critical monthsfor deer car era he . During this period they concentrate along road shoulders to feed on n w green food available following winter. However, deer are often spotted at midday during summer months. Therefore, it is important for drivers to remain cautious when traveling on rural roads or areas known to have a high deer population. so fl ►