HARRISBURG, PA — A new distracted driving law known as Paul Miller’s Law will take effect in Pennsylvania on June 5, making it illegal for drivers to hold a phone or any other mobile device while operating a vehicle.
The legislation prohibits activities such as reading or writing text messages, browsing the internet, taking photos, or engaging in any use of a handheld device while behind the wheel—even when the vehicle is temporarily stopped at a light, stop sign, or in traffic.
Named in memory of Paul Miller Jr., who was killed in 2010 in Monroe County by a distracted tractor-trailer driver, the law was championed by his mother, Eileen Miller. When the bill was signed into law last year, she reflected on her promise to her son:
“My son did everything right – and somebody else caused his death,” Miller said. “I whispered to him at the morgue that I would find out what happened and fight for change. We later learned it was distracted driving. Today, I’ve kept that promise. This is Paul Miller’s law.”
Grace Period and Penalties
For the first year after the law takes effect, violators will receive a written warning. Starting June 5, 2026, those caught holding a phone while driving will face a $50 fine, plus court costs and other fees.
The law also introduces stricter penalties in fatal accidents. If a driver is found to be distracted or using a mobile device during a crash that results in a death, an additional five years of imprisonment can be added to their sentence.
Strict Enforcement Guidelines
The ban applies anytime a driver is holding a device with any part of their body. Law enforcement officers can pull drivers over solely for this offense. To use a phone legally, drivers must pull over to a safe location, stop the vehicle completely, and shift it into park.
Background and Impact
Advocates have long pushed for tougher distracted driving laws in Pennsylvania. While texting and driving has been banned for years, this new law aligns Pennsylvania with 24 other states and the District of Columbia that prohibit any handheld device use while driving. The bill passed the state legislature with bipartisan support.
Officials emphasize the life-saving potential of this measure.
“Limiting distractions behind the wheel makes Pennsylvania’s roads safer,” said Colonel Christopher Paris, Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police. “Removing the temptation to handle cell phones will reduce crashes and save lives.”
In 2023, distracted driving was the leading cause of vehicle crashes in the state, surpassing even alcohol-related incidents. According to PennDOT, there were 11,262 distracted driving crashes compared to 8,330 involving alcohol. Traffic fatalities also rose 2.25% from the previous year, with a total of 1,209 deaths reported.
State Senator Rosemary Brown, the bill’s primary sponsor, noted that the legislation was more than a decade in the making.
“This law is a testament to perseverance and a commitment to public safety,” Brown said. “I’m grateful to everyone who helped make it a reality. It will prevent crashes and save lives.”
The seriousness of Distracted Driving Car Accidents in Pennsylvania
Distracted driving is one of the most serious and preventable causes of car accidents in Pennsylvania. In 2023 alone, distracted driving led to over 11,000 crashes—outpacing even those caused by alcohol, according to PennDOT data. Whether it’s sending a quick text, checking GPS, or scrolling through social media, these seemingly minor distractions can have devastating consequences in just a split second. Taking your eyes off the road, hands off the wheel, or mind off driving—even briefly—can drastically reduce your ability to react to sudden changes in traffic or road conditions.
The rising number of distracted driving accidents has become a public safety crisis in Pennsylvania. With over 1,200 traffic-related fatalities in 2023 and distracted driving as a leading cause, lawmakers and law enforcement agencies are taking urgent action to address the issue. The new hands-free law is a direct response to these statistics, aiming to eliminate the use of handheld devices behind the wheel and reinforce the importance of staying focused. By understanding the risks and making safer choices, drivers can help reverse this dangerous trend and make Pennsylvania’s roads safer for everyone.
A Car Accident Attorney Responds
At Kats, Jamison and Associates, we’ve seen firsthand the devastating consequences distracted driving can have on individuals and families. Every year, we represent clients who were seriously injured or lost loved ones due to accidents caused by drivers who were texting, scrolling, or otherwise not paying attention behind the wheel. These cases are heartbreaking because they are entirely preventable. A moment of distraction can lead to a lifetime of pain, medical bills, and emotional trauma.
The new hands-free law in Pennsylvania is a step in the right direction, and we fully support any measure that helps reduce the number of distracted driving accidents. However, laws alone can’t undo the damage already done. If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver, you deserve experienced legal representation to help you pursue justice and fair compensation. As your car accident lawyer, we are here to advocate for your rights and hold negligent drivers accountable.
