Driving in Georgia comes with a significant responsibility, and understanding the rules of the road is essential to ensuring both your safety and the safety of others. Whether you're an experienced driver or new to the state's highways and streets, it's important to be aware of the most common driving violations that adults commit. These infractions not only carry steep fines but can also lead to points on your license, higher insurance premiums, and in some cases, even license suspension. At Get Drivers Ed, we’re committed to helping drivers of all ages avoid these violations by offering comprehensive and practical driver education. In this blog, we’ll cover the top 5 adult driving violations in Georgia, helping you stay informed and avoid costly mistakes.
1. Speeding
Why Speeding is the Top Offense
Speeding is consistently the most common driving violation in Georgia, as well as across the United States. Georgia's traffic laws set specific speed limits for different types of roads, and exceeding those limits—even by a small margin—can lead to a ticket. Speeding is dangerous because it reduces your reaction time and increases the severity of accidents. Many drivers think going just a few miles over the limit is harmless, but Georgia law enforcement takes speeding very seriously.
Consequences of Speeding in Georgia:
Fines vary depending on how much over the speed limit you’re driving, with more severe penalties for exceeding limits by 15 mph or more.
Accumulating speeding tickets can lead to points on your driving record. In Georgia, accumulating 15 points in 24 months can result in a suspended driver’s license.
At Get Drivers Ed, we emphasize the importance of obeying speed limits, not only to avoid fines but to ensure your safety and that of others on the road. By learning the nuances of Georgia’s speed laws in our adult driving courses, you can avoid falling into the common habit of speeding.
2. Running Red Lights and Stop Signs
The Dangers of Ignoring Traffic Signals
Running a red light or stop sign is another common violation that can lead to serious accidents. Many drivers try to beat the red light by speeding up, or they fail to come to a complete stop at stop signs. Georgia law requires drivers to come to a complete stop at all red lights and stop signs, even if there’s no visible cross-traffic. This violation is particularly dangerous because intersections are high-risk areas for collisions, and ignoring traffic signals can lead to deadly T-bone accidents.
Consequences of Running Red Lights or Stop Signs in Georgia:
The fine for running a red light or stop sign can range from $100 to $500, depending on the county and the severity of the infraction.
This violation adds three points to your driving record, and accumulating too many points can result in suspension of your license.
At Get Drivers Ed, we provide comprehensive lessons on how to properly navigate intersections, reminding drivers to always exercise caution when approaching red lights and stop signs.
3. Failure to Yield
Understanding Right of Way
Failure to yield is a frequent driving violation, especially at intersections, roundabouts, and when merging onto highways. Many drivers either misunderstand or ignore the rules regarding who has the right of way, leading to accidents. Whether you're making a left turn or entering a roundabout, it's important to yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians when necessary.
Consequences of Failure to Yield in Georgia:
Fines for failing to yield range between $140 and $400, depending on the circumstances.
This violation adds three points to your driving record and could increase your insurance premiums.
Get Drivers Ed teaches the importance of yielding correctly, ensuring that drivers are familiar with Georgia’s right-of-way laws. Knowing when to yield can prevent many accidents and make your driving smoother and safer.
4. Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
The Seriousness of Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence (DUI) is one of the most dangerous and costly violations in Georgia. Operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs puts your life and the lives of others at risk. Georgia has strict DUI laws with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit of 0.08% for adults. A DUI conviction carries severe penalties, including hefty fines, possible jail time, and the suspension of your driver’s license.
Consequences of DUI in Georgia:
A first-time DUI conviction can lead to fines ranging from $300 to $1,000, along with the possibility of jail time for up to one year.
Your license will be suspended for at least one year, and you will likely be required to attend DUI school and complete community service.
A DUI conviction adds six points to your driving record and can have long-lasting effects on your insurance rates.
At Get Drivers Ed, we stress the importance of never driving under the influence. Our courses provide practical advice for making responsible choices, such as using designated drivers, rideshare services, or public transportation when you’ve been drinking. We also cover the potential consequences of a DUI, which can serve as a deterrent for risky behavior.
5. Reckless Driving
What Constitutes Reckless Driving?
Reckless driving is defined as operating a vehicle with “reckless disregard” for the safety of others. This broad category can include behaviors such as excessive speeding, aggressive lane changes, tailgating, and other dangerous actions that endanger others. In Georgia, reckless driving is considered a serious offense and is classified as a misdemeanor.
Consequences of Reckless Driving in Georgia:
Fines for reckless driving can go up to $1,000, along with the potential for jail time.
A reckless driving conviction adds four points to your driving record, which can quickly lead to license suspension if combined with other violations.
At Get Drivers Ed, we teach the importance of defensive driving and staying calm behind the wheel, even when you’re frustrated or in a hurry. Our courses offer tips on how to avoid the behaviors that lead to reckless driving and how to stay safe when other drivers on the road are acting aggressively.
Conclusion: Drive Safely and Avoid Violations with Get Drivers Ed
Driving safely and responsibly is key to avoiding the most common driving violations in Georgia. Whether it's obeying speed limits, stopping at traffic signals, yielding properly, avoiding impaired driving, or refraining from reckless behavior, understanding Georgia’s traffic laws can save you from costly fines, points on your license, and potentially dangerous situations.
At Get Drivers Ed, we are committed to helping adult drivers stay informed and prepared for Georgia’s roads. Our online drivers ed courses offer comprehensive education that covers all aspects of safe driving, from traffic laws to defensive driving techniques. By taking our courses, you can sharpen your skills, avoid common violations, and drive with confidence. Enroll today and take the first step toward becoming a safer, more knowledgeable driver!
