In Pennsylvania a new law banning cell phones while driving goes into effect next month. Senate Bill 37, also known as “Paul Miller’s Law,” bans the use of interactive handheld devices while operating a vehicle. Named for Paul Miller, a 21 year old who was tragically killed by a distracted driver in a head-on collision in 2010, the law aims to make Pennsylvania roadways safer for all. By putting phones down and keeping eyes on the road, drivers will increase situational awareness, reaction time, and focus.
What do drivers need to know about new law banning cell phones while driving?
The law new law banning cell phones while driving takes effect June 2025, but police will issue warnings for the first year. Following that grace period, police will pull drivers over for violations and issue fines. The infraction will be a summary offense. There is a fine of $50 that will be imposed, which could start to add up for drivers who habitually use their phones. Violators may also be responsible for court fees and costs.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has said the change in the law is common sense.
What about GPS and Music in the Car? Does that law ban those?
Don’t worry, drivers in Pennsylvania can still use their navigation assistance and crank up those tunes. What they cannot do is use their hands to do so. Voice activated use of cellphone is still permitted under the new law. Another solution is to set your destination and turn on gps before pulling out of the driveway. The same goes for music or podcasts – use your devices playlist features and set your streaming before you are on the road.
“But I only use my phone at a red light or stopped in traffic?”
Put it down. The law aims to curtail all handheld device use while behind the wheel. So set the destination in your gps, turn on that playlist, and put the phone away before you pull onto the roadway.
If you have questions about auto law, an accident you were in, your own auto policy, please call Graham & Mauer’s Valley Forge 610-933-3333 or Harrisburg office 717-933-3333.
