Pennsylvania Takes A Stand Against Distracted Driving Dangers

Driving while talking or texting on a mobile phone has been against the law in New York State for quite a while, but it's a relatively new law in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. In 2024, there were 9,950 crashes involving a distracted driver, resulting in more than 6,000 injuries and 49 fatalities in Pennsylvania. The warning period is about to end.

Put Down That Phone!

Motorists are being reminded to put down the phone while driving through Pennsylvania or pay a fine. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and the Pennsylvania State Police announced that fines will be handed out to motorists who break this law, beginning June 5, 2026, in the amount of $50, plus court costs and other fees.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro signed Paul Miller’s Law in 2024, prohibiting the use of hand-held devices while driving. That includes while stopped temporarily due to traffic, a red light, or other delays.

Exceptions to the Paul Miller Law

The law states that motorists can still use their phones to alert authorities in the event of an emergency and use hands-free technology to make phone calls, use a GPS, and listen to music.

As the warning period for Paul Miller’s Law concludes, troopers will begin issuing citations to drivers using handheld devices behind the wheel. Distracted driving is dangerous and significantly increases the risk of crashes. Just a moment of inattention can lead to life-altering consequences. The PSP urges all motorists to put their phones down, stay focused, and help keep Pennsylvania's roadways safe. - Pennsylvania State Police Acting Commissioner Lieutenant Colonel George L. Bivens

In addition, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has a texting-while-driving ban in force, prohibiting motorists from using mobile devices to send, read, or write text-based communications while their vehicle is in motion.

The State notes that, depending on the circumstances, violating Paul Miller’s Law or the texting-while-driving ban may also result in a conviction for Homicide by Vehicle or Aggravated Assault by Vehicle, and may result in increased sentences.

Why Was It Named The Paul Miller Law?

According to PennDOT, this law is named for Paul Miller Jr., who was tragically killed in a crash with a tractor-trailer in 2010 in Monroe County as a result of a distracted driver who reached for their phone while driving. 

Nearly 15 years ago, two Dunmore state troopers knocked on my door to tell me that my son was killed. My son did everything right. He was killed by someone else’s unsafe choices behind the wheel. This law is for every family in Pennsylvania that doesn't have to experience two state troopers knocking on their door to tell them that their loved one was killed by distracted driving. - Paul Miller's Mother, Eileen Miller

PennDOT and the Pennsylvania State Police ask motorists to keep the following in mind: 

• If you are expecting a text message or need to send one that can’t wait, pull over and park your car in a safe location before using your device.
• Ask a passenger to be your “designated texter.” Allow them to access your phone to respond to calls or messages.
• Do not engage in social media scrolling or messaging while driving.
• Cell phone use is habit-forming. Struggling to not text and drive? Activate your phone’s “Do Not Disturb” feature, silence notifications, or put your phone in a location that is inaccessible until you arrive at your destination.

For more information, visit the PennDOT safety website.