Pennsylvania’s New Hands-Free Driving Law: What You Need to Know
Using your phone behind the wheel has long been seen as dangerous, but now it’s officially illegal in Pennsylvania, even while stopped at red lights. The new measure,dubbed Paul Miller’s Law,aims to get phones out of drivers’ hands,a move that officials say could save lives.
The Core of the Law
Paul Miller’s Law prohibits drivers from holding or using a cell phone while operating a vehicle on Pennsylvania roads.This includes activities such as:
- Dialing
- Texting
- Scrolling for music
- Any other handling of the phone
The law applies not only when driving but also when stopped at red lights or in traffic.
Why This Law Matters
Distracted driving is a critically important problem in Pennsylvania. According to PennDOT, distracted driving caused 9,950 crashes last year, leading to more than 6,000 injuries and 49 fatalities.
Did you know? A driver traveling 70 miles per hour covers over 100 feet per second. Taking your eyes off the road for just a few seconds can have devastating consequences.
Crispin Havener, a spokesperson for the Pennsylvania Turnpike, emphasized the potential dangers:
Someone who’s traveling 70 miles an hour on the turnpike, they’re going 100 feet per second. So if you have a phone in your hand — ‘Oh, I’m just going to quickly dial a number’ — in five seconds, you’re 500 feet down the road. That could change everything.
Crispin Havener, Pennsylvania Turnpike Spokesperson
The Human Cost: Eileen Miller’s Fight
Paul Miller’s Law is named after Eileen miller’s son, Paul, who was killed by a distracted driver 15 years ago at the age of 21. Eileen made a promise to her son that she would fight for change.
Eileen Miller vowed to make a change after her son’s death:
I whispered in his ear, I said, Paul, you should have never died like this. I don’t know what caused this. I said, but I will find out what had caused this crash, and when I do, I will fight for change.
Eileen Miller, Advocate for Paul Miller’s Law
Community support
While acknowledging the difficulty of breaking the phone habit, many residents support the new law. Ida Kelly, a resident of Churchill, shared her outlook:
An accident can happen in the twinkling of an eye. I was just walking this morning with my walking partner,and she almost backed right into me,so it is a good idea,because she was on her phone.
Ida Kelly, Churchill Resident
Enforcement and Penalties
For now, drivers found using their phones behind the wheel will recieve warnings. Starting June 6, 2026, violations will result in fines.
Pro Tip: Invest in a hands-free device or use your car’s Bluetooth system to make calls safely and legally.
Exceptions to the Law
There are some exceptions to Paul Miller’s Law, such as in emergency situations. For detailed data on the exceptions and penalties, refer to the official legislation.
Click here to see the details of Paul Miller’s Law, including the exceptions and the penalties.
