New Law Cracks Down on Distracted Driving in Pennsylvania: What You Need to Know

Scartelli Olszewski P.C.

On June 5, 2025, a new law went into effect in Pennsylvania, known as Paul Miller’s Law, which can help prevent heartache on our roads. This legislation makes it illegal to use a handheld phone while driving, even if you’re stopped at a red light or stuck in traffic. Beginning June 5th, law enforcement began issuing written warnings to drivers in violation of this new law. Full enforcement — including citations- will begin on June 6, 2026.

This isn’t just about cracking down. It’s about saving lives.

In 2010, Paul Miller Jr. was just 21 years old when he was killed by a distracted driver. Since Pau’s death, his mother, Eileen Miller, has made it her life’s mission to turn pain into purpose. Her tireless advocacy helped bring this law into existence — and it’s a powerful reminder of why putting the phone down matters.

As a mother and trial attorney who has represented families after devastating crashes, I can’t overstate the importance of this new law. I’ve seen firsthand what happens when seconds of distracted driving can be life-altering. This law gives us a chance to stop that before it happens.

What Does the Law Say?

Under Paul Miller’s Law, drivers are not allowed to hold or manually operate a phone for any reason while driving — and yes, that includes at red lights or in bumper-to-bumper traffic.

That means no:

Texting
Scrolling social media
Dialing numbers
Manually using GPS apps

What Is Still Allowed?

You can still use your phone if:

It’s connected through Bluetooth or hands-free technology
You’re using voice-controlled navigation or making a hands-free call
You’re contacting emergency responders

This law doesn’t mean you have to be cut off from the world — it just means you have to put safety first while behind the wheel.

When Will It Be Enforced?

June 5, 2025: Officers began issuing written warnings

June 6, 2026: Full enforcement begins with citations

That gives everyone a year to adjust and make safer choices behind the wheel.

Why This Law Matters

In 2024 alone, Pennsylvania saw nearly 10,000 crashes involving distracted drivers, with over 6,000 injuries and 49 deaths.

As PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll said, “One text, one glance down — it could kill someone. And it’s not worth it.”Throughout my career, I’ve sat across from many families who would give anything to go back and undo a single moment. This law is a step toward protecting more families from experiencing that grief.

Tips to Stay Focused Behind the Wheel

If you’re wondering how to adjust to this law — or just want to drive safer starting now — here are a few simple things that make a big difference:

Put your phone where you can’t reach it — in the glove box, center console, or back seat.
Turn on “Do Not Disturb” While Driving mode.
Let a passenger handle calls or texts if needed.
Avoid all distractions — even food, makeup, music changes, or reaching for something in the back seat.

Every choice to stay focused is a choice to protect yourself, your passengers, and everyone else on the road.

Building Trust While Enforcing Safety

One important part of this law is its commitment to fair policing. Officers are now required to collect and report demographic data, like race, ethnicity, and gender, during every traffic stop for a cell phone violation. That information will be published annually, helping ensure the law is enforced with transparency and accountability.

It’s a reminder that public safety should protect all of us equally.

If you’d like more resources or tips for safer driving, visit PennDOT.pa.gov/safety.

If you or a loved one has been affected by a distracted driver, know that you don’t have to carry that burden alone. We’re here to listen, help you understand your rights, and fight for the justice you deserve.