Bainbridge Public Safety is urging local drivers to keep their eyes on the road and minimize distractions while driving.

Friday, BPS shared a video on its Facebook page featuring footage of teen drivers getting into (almost) accidents because they were distracted.

This message can and should be spread to every driver, regardless of age. Distracted driving – whether the distraction is a cellphone, radio, kids in the backseat or a Big Mac – can cause serious, potentially fatal, accidents.

Not only is it dangerous, but it’s also illegal in the state of Georgia. O.C.G.A § 40-6-241 states that a driver “shall not engage in any actions which shall distract such driver from the safe operation of such vehicle.” The law goes on to read that violations will result in a $150 fine, “If the operator of the moving motor vehicle is involved in an accident at the time of a violation of this Code section, then the fine shall be equal to double the amount of the fine.”

We urge experience drivers to set the example for teens and new drivers they know by putting the phones down and focusing on the road.

If everyone works to be less distracted behind the wheel, hopefully we can limit automobile accidents and keep Decatur County’s roads safe.