Hit by an Uninsured Driver in Pennsylvania? Here’s Your Legal Guide

Getting into a car accident is frightening, but discovering the driver who hit you doesn’t have insurance can make a bad situation seem hopeless.

Medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle repairs can pile up quickly, and without a straightforward path to securing compensation from the other driver’s insurance to help cover them, many people are left wondering what to do next.

At Freeburn Law, we help Pennsylvania drivers and passengers navigate the aftermath of serious car accidents, including collisions involving uninsured drivers. You don’t have to go through this alone. Call (717) 777-7777 today!

Our motor vehicle attorneys are here to help you understand your options and fight for the compensation you need.

What Happens If the At-Fault Driver Has No Insurance?

In Pennsylvania, all drivers are required by law to carry auto insurance. Unfortunately, not everyone follows that law.

If you’re hit by someone without insurance, resulting in a personal injury, you won’t be able to file a traditional third-party insurance claim. This can leave victims in a difficult position, made worse when injuries are serious and bills begin to mount.

However, that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Depending on your insurance policy and the facts of the crash, you may still be able to recover compensation.

Understanding Pennsylvania's Insurance Requirements

Pennsylvania requires drivers to carry minimum coverage, including:

This coverage is meant to protect others if the policyholder causes an accident.

If the at-fault driver has no coverage, you’ll need to rely on your own insurance or legal action to recover.

Uninsured vs. Underinsured Drivers: What’s the Difference?

An uninsured driver has no car insurance at all. An underinsured driver has insurance, but not enough to cover your losses.

Both situations can leave accident victims struggling to pay medical bills, replace a totaled vehicle, or get back to work.

You still have options regardless of which of these two drivers hit you. A dedicated car accident attorney can help lay out your options to recover the compensation you need.

Can You Still Get Compensation After an Uninsured Crash?

Yes. Many people are surprised to learn that their own insurance policy may cover accidents caused by uninsured drivers if they selected the right type of protection when they bought their policy.

Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage in Pennsylvania

Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage is an optional add-on to your car insurance policy. It covers your expenses if you’re hit by a driver who has no insurance.

It can help pay for:

If you selected UM coverage when you purchased your policy, you can file a claim through your own insurer, even if the at-fault driver has no coverage.

Other Insurance Options That May Help You

In addition to UM/UIM coverage, you may have access to:

An attorney can review your full policy and identify every possible source of compensation.

Suing an Uninsured Driver—Is It Worth It?

Yes, you can sue an uninsured driver in Pennsylvania. Practically speaking, it may not help much.

Pursuing a claim through your own insurance will be faster and more effective. While this isn’t always true, most uninsured drivers don’t have the personal assets to pay for your losses, even if you win in court.

In that case, it is up to your own insurance policy to pay out for your wreck.

Before deciding to sue, it’s important to consult with a motor vehicle accident attorney who can assess whether a lawsuit is likely to result in actual financial recovery. 

What to Do Immediately After the Accident

When you’re involved in a crash with an uninsured driver, the steps you take in the minutes and days that follow can make a big difference in your case.

Document Everything at the Scene

If you’re able, take the following actions:

Ask the other driver for identification and insurance information, even if they admit they don’t have insurance.

This information may still be useful if legal action is necessary.

Report the Crash to Police and Your Insurer

Always call 911 and file an official police report. Officers will document the scene, speak with witnesses, and confirm whether the at-fault driver had valid insurance.

Then, contact your insurance company and report the accident. Let them know the other driver was uninsured.

This starts the process of evaluating your policy and coverage.

Get Medical Treatment Right Away

Even if your injuries seem minor, seek medical attention immediately. Some injuries aren’t obvious right away, and delays in care can make your recovery harder and could hurt your claim.

Medical records provide critical documentation that links your injuries directly to the crash.

Why You Need a Lawyer for an Uninsured Driver Case

Cases involving uninsured drivers are more complex than standard car accident claims. Insurance companies may look for ways to deny your UM claim or limit your compensation.

A skilled attorney can help protect your rights and handle the process from start to finish.

Your insurance company can make a UM claim seem hopeless to try to prevent them from having to pay out fair compensation. You pay your insurance to protect you from financial burden in these cases, and they don’t have the right to deny you what you are owed. 

At Freeburn law, we will work for you to make sure you are fairly compensated.

Navigating Complex Insurance Claims

Uninsured motorist claims require careful navigation. Your own insurer may treat the case like any other liability claim. requiring evidence, negotiations, and strong legal support.

Your attorney can:

Maximizing Your Settlement Potential

An experienced personal injury attorney will calculate your total damages. This includes not just current medical bills, but also future care, lost income, pain and suffering, and more. Without legal help, many victims settle for far less than they deserve.

Freeburn Law’s Experience with Uninsured Claims

At Freeburn Law, we’ve helped countless Pennsylvanians recover compensation after being hit by an uninsured driver.

We know how to analyze your policy, identify all sources of recovery, and build a strong case that gets results. It is not your fault that an uninsured driver hit you, resulting in an accident. 

Schedule a Free Consultation with Freeburn Law Today

You don’t have to face this situation alone. If you were hit by a driver without insurance in PA, our team at Freeburn Law is ready to help. 

No Fees Unless We Win Your Case

We work on a contingency fee basis. That means there are no upfront costs and no legal fees unless we recover money for you. You risk nothing by reaching out.

Serving Clients Across Pennsylvania

From Harrisburg to York, Lancaster to Scranton, we represent accident victims across the state. Our attorneys are dedicated to providing compassionate, aggressive legal help when you need it most. A car accident can be a confusing, chaotic time for anyone, and we’re here to help untangle the mess and get your life back on track. You deserve compassionate legal service that will do whatever it takes to get the compensation you need and deserve.

Contact us at (717) 777-7777 today to schedule your free consultation. We’ll review your case, answer your questions, and help you understand your next steps.

Let Freeburn Law be your voice in your fight for equity and justice after your car accident. 

Underride Truck Accidents in Pennsylvania

Underride truck accidents are among the most devastating types of collisions that can occur on Pennsylvania highways. These accidents happen when a smaller vehicle collides with the rear or side of a large commercial truck and becomes trapped underneath. Due to the size and design of trucks, underride accidents often result in severe injuries or fatalities for the occupants of the smaller vehicle. 

If you or someone you love has been affected by an underride truck accident, contact Freeburn Law today for guidance and the aggressive representation needed to take on commercial trucking companies and secure the justice you deserve.

What Is an Underride Truck Accident?

An underride truck accident occurs when a smaller vehicle, such as a car or motorcycle, slides underneath the rear or side of a large commercial truck during a collision. Due to the vast size difference between these vehicles, the roof of the smaller vehicle is often crushed or sheared off, leading to catastrophic injuries or fatalities for the occupants. 

Rear vs. Side Underride Crashes

Rear underride crashes happen when a smaller vehicle collides with the back of a commercial truck. This is often caused by sudden stops or a lack of rear underride guards on the truck, leaving the smaller vehicle vulnerable to sliding underneath. 

Side underride accidents occur when a vehicle hits the side of a truck during lane changes, turns, or intersections. These are particularly hazardous because side underride guards are not yet universally required, making the impact far more lethal. 

Victims in these crashes face immense physical trauma because the safety features in standard vehicles, such as airbags and seatbelts, offer little to no protection when the upper portion of the car is compromised. These accidents can be especially devastating for families, as they not only endure the emotional toll of the event but may also suffer financial burdens due to medical expenses and long-term care needs.

Common Causes of Underride Accidents

Underride truck accidents often stem from a combination of factors that make these collisions both dangerous and tragically common. The design and sheer size of commercial trucks create inherent risks for smaller vehicles, but specific circumstances can further increase the likelihood of an underride accident.

Common causes of underride accidents include: 

Each of these factors highlights how preventable these incidents can be with the right precautions in place.

Injuries Commonly Associated With Underride Truck Accidents

Underride truck accidents often result in devastating injuries due to the extreme impact and structural vulnerabilities they create for occupants of smaller vehicles. These crashes frequently bypass standard safety features like airbags, exposing victims to significant trauma. The physical toll of these accidents can leave survivors facing long-term health complications or permanent disabilities, profoundly altering their quality of life. 

Common injuries from an underride truck accident include:

These injuries can require extensive medical care, rehabilitation, and ongoing support, making it vital for victims to seek legal assistance to ensure they receive the compensation needed to aid their recovery.

Who Is Liable in an Underride Accident in Pennsylvania?

Determining liability in an underride truck accident can be complex, as multiple parties may share responsibility depending on the circumstances of the crash. Each scenario underscores the importance of a thorough legal investigation to ensure all accountable parties are identified.

When working with an experienced commercial truck accident attorney, they can fully investigate the accident and identify all of the parties who may be held responsible. Liability in an underride truck accident typically falls to:

Identifying all liable parties in an underride truck accident case is crucial for victims seeking to fully recover from the financial and emotional toll of the crash. By identifying and pursuing all avenues of compensation, victims of underride truck accidents have a stronger chance of receiving the comprehensive support they need to secure their future and alleviate the immense burden these incidents create. This thorough and determined legal strategy maximizes justice and ensures no responsible party escapes accountability.

Pennsylvania Underride Guard Laws and Safety Regulations

Pennsylvania underride guard laws and safety regulations are designed to reduce the risk of fatal and life-altering underride truck accidents. These laws focus on equipping large commercial trucks with underride guards, which are metal bars designed to prevent smaller vehicles from sliding underneath in the event of a collision. 

Rear underride guards are federally mandated, ensuring all commercial vehicles meet minimum safety standards to protect motorists. However, side underride guards remain optional at the federal level, leaving a significant safety gap. 

When comparing federal guidelines to Pennsylvania’s approach, it becomes clear that federal regulations provide a baseline, while Pennsylvania seeks additional safety adaptations to protect its residents. This dual-layer approach highlights Pennsylvania’s efforts to not only meet but exceed safety expectations, showcasing a commitment to reducing the devastating toll of underride truck accidents on its roads.

How to File a Truck Accident Lawsuit in Pennsylvania

Navigating a truck accident lawsuit in Pennsylvania starts with understanding the legal process and your victim rights. The first and most crucial step is consulting an experienced truck accident attorney who can guide you through every aspect of your case. An attorney will assess the details, gather critical evidence such as police reports, medical records, and witness statements, and establish liability to build a strong foundation for your claim. Their expertise ensures no vital detail is overlooked, giving you the best chance to pursue justice and fair compensation.

Time Limits to File a Claim

It is critical to act promptly, as Pennsylvania enforces a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline could forfeit your right to seek compensation. Additionally, the timeline for resolving a claim can vary significantly based on case complexity and whether it is settled out of court or proceeds to trial. While some cases are resolved in months, others may extend over years due to investigations and legal proceedings. By working with a skilled truck accident attorney, victims can ensure they meet all deadlines, explore every avenue for justice, and secure the comprehensive financial recovery they need to move forward.

Compensation for Underride Truck Accident Victims in PA

Victims of underride truck accidents in Pennsylvania may be entitled to several types of compensation to help alleviate the impact of the crash and support their recovery. These damages address both the financial strains and personal losses resulting from the accident. 

Compensation may include:

Why Choose Freeburn Law for Your Truck Accident Case

If you or a loved one has survived the unimaginable trauma of an underride truck accident, you and your family may be facing the immense physical, emotional, and financial burdens that these accidents leave behind. At Freeburn Law, we understand the devastating impact these accidents have on victims and their families. That’s why our dedicated team fights tirelessly to hold those responsible accountable and secure the compensation you deserve. With years of experience advocating for accident victims across Pennsylvania, we have the knowledge, skill, and compassion needed to guide you through this difficult time.

Contact a Pennsylvania Underride Truck Accident Lawyer Today

Freeburn Law is committed to putting your needs first. We take the time to listen to your story, build a strong legal case, and stand up to insurance companies and trucking industry giants. Whether it’s obtaining compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, or the pain and suffering caused by the accident, our goal is to help you regain control of your life. Contact Freeburn Law today to speak with an experienced Pennsylvania underride truck accident lawyer for a free consultation. 

Uber Accident Passenger: What to Do After Being Injured in a Crash

An Uber ride is supposed to be a convenient and stress-free way to get where you need to go, but what happens when your trip is interrupted by an accident? If you’ve been injured as a passenger, questions may begin to pile up quickly.

Who is responsible for the medical bills? How do you file a claim? What if the insurance companies give you the runaround? These are important concerns, and knowing your rights is the first step toward protecting yourself and securing the compensation you deserve.

At Freeburn Law, our experienced attorneys are well-versed in the complexities of rideshare accident claims, from determining liability to resolving insurance coverage disputes.

We’re here to provide answers, clear up uncertainties, and handle the legal details so you don’t have to. We aim to make the process as smooth as possible while ensuring your best interests are represented.

Contact Freeburn Law today.

We’ll walk you through your legal options, fight to secure the compensation you’re entitled to, and give you the confidence to focus on your recovery. 

What Are Your Rights as an Uber Accident Passenger in Pennsylvania?

When you book an Uber, you typically focus on convenience and getting to your destination. Rarely do passengers consider their rights or who might be liable if an accident occurs during the ride. However, as a paying Uber passenger, you have specific protections under Pennsylvania law. 

Here are some key rights you have as an Uber passenger in Pennsylvania:

Understanding these rights is crucial if you’re injured in a rideshare accident, as it can impact how you seek compensation and ensure you're treated fairly.

If you’re unsure about how to proceed after being injured as an Uber passenger, a free consultation with Freeburn Law can provide the answers you need. 

Are Uber Passengers Covered By Insurance in a Crash?

Yes, Uber passengers are covered by the company’s insurance policy in the event of a crash, as long as the ride was in progress. This coverage includes up to $1 million in liability and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

However, other factors, such as the driver’s individual insurance and the actions of other parties involved, could impact your overall compensation. An attorney can help you make sense of these insurance layers.

Understanding Uber’s Liability and Third-Party Coverage

Additional coverage doesn’t stop with Uber; it also covers cases where another party is at fault. For instance, if a third party caused the crash, their insurance policy would typically apply. However, if their coverage isn’t sufficient, Uber’s policy can act as a safeguard to cover the gap.

Understanding these layers of insurance is crucial because they determine how your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages are addressed after an accident.

This framework provides passengers with significant protection, but knowing how it applies to your unique situation may require a motor vehicle accident attorney to ensure all avenues for compensation are explored.

Steps to Take Immediately After an Uber Accident

Knowing what to do next is essential if you’re a passenger in an Uber accident. While it’s natural to feel shaken, taking specific steps immediately after the crash can help protect your health and ensure you're prepared for any future claims. Whether it’s documenting the scene or ensuring the right parties are informed, a little preparation can go a long way in protecting yourself.

Here’s what you should do right away after an Uber accident:

  1. Prioritize your safety by checking yourself and others for injuries, and call 911 to request medical attention if needed. Don’t assume an injury is minor without medical confirmation.
  2. Alert the authorities. Having a police report is crucial when documenting what happened during the accident.
  3. Take photos or videos of the vehicles, physical injuries, and the surrounding scene from multiple angles. Be as thorough as possible.
  4. Exchange information with everyone involved, including the Uber driver, other drivers, and any eyewitnesses. Gathering names, phone numbers, and insurance details will be important.
  5. Report the accident through Uber’s app to create an official record with the rideshare platform.
  6. Preserve ride receipts and trip information. These details may help clarify your claim later by establishing timelines and ride specifics.

By taking these actions right away, you’re not only watching out for your immediate safety but also preserving critical evidence that could affect your ability to recover compensation.

Each step you take strengthens your position and minimizes potential disputes with insurance or liability concerns. It’s a simple yet effective way to prepare you for whatever comes next.

Who Is Responsible for Paying Medical Bills?

If you’re injured as a passenger in an Uber accident, understanding who pays your medical bills is essential to the recovery process. Pennsylvania’s no-fault insurance laws mean your own insurance generally covers initial medical expenses, regardless of who caused the car accident.

However, when the accident occurs during an active Uber ride, you may also have access to Uber’s robust insurance policy, which could handle costs that exceed your personal coverage. Whether to rely on Uber’s insurance or your own health or auto insurance can significantly impact your claim and future premiums.

Here’s who might be responsible for covering your expenses:

How Pennsylvania's No-Fault Laws Affect Uber Accidents

When an Uber accident happens in Pennsylvania, determining who’s financially responsible for injuries isn’t always straightforward. Under Pennsylvania’s no-fault law, your personal insurance is typically the first to cover medical expenses, regardless of who caused the accident.

But as an Uber passenger, you also benefit from Uber’s extensive insurance coverage, which acts as an additional layer of protection.

Uber provides up to $1 million in liability coverage for its passengers when the driver is actively on a ride, ensuring that victims have access to compensation beyond their own insurance, if needed.

Using Uber’s Insurance vs. Your Own Auto or Health Insurance

It’s often better to explore Uber’s insurance policy over your own to avoid potential increases in premiums or out-of-pocket costs. However, each case is unique, and this decision could affect the total compensation you’re eligible to receive.

An experienced rideshare accident attorney can analyze your situation and help you determine the best path forward, ensuring every source of compensation is pursued while minimizing the risk of compromising your claim. Proper guidance can make sure you don’t leave any coverage untapped.

What Happens If the Uber Driver Is at Fault?

Uber's insurance policy typically comes into play to cover damages if the Uber driver is found at fault for the accident. Uber provides liability coverage of up to $1 million when a driver is actively transporting passengers. This can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other injuries for passengers.

An experienced car accident attorney can help ensure that you receive fair compensation through this policy.

Can You Sue Uber If You Were Injured as a Passenger?

While suing Uber directly is often not an option because the company classifies its drivers as independent contractors, you can still file a claim against Uber’s insurance policy. Uber’s coverage exists to protect passengers in accidents involving their drivers, but navigating this process can be complex.

Hiring an experienced rideshare accident attorney in Pennsylvania is key to holding all appropriate parties accountable and securing the compensation you deserve.

How Long Do You Have to File an Uber Accident Claim in PA?

Pennsylvania enforces a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, which includes accidents involving transportation services like Uber.

This means you must file your claim within two years of the accident date. Acting sooner rather than later can strengthen your case, as evidence and witness recollections are easiest to gather shortly after the incident.

What to Expect from an Uber Passenger Injury Settlement

When pursuing a personal injury settlement as an Uber passenger, several factors come into play that can affect both the timeline and the compensation you receive. Settlements can take anywhere from a few months to over a year, depending on the case's complexity, the insurance companies' willingness to negotiate, and whether liability is disputed.

Compensation can vary widely, depending on the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost income, and the emotional toll of the experience. With the help of an experienced legal team like Freeburn Law, you can seek the maximum compensation allowed under the circumstances.

Why Work with a Personal Injury Attorney After an Uber Crash?

Hiring a rideshare accident attorney after an Uber crash can greatly enhance the strength of your claim. Navigating the legal and insurance systems can be complicated, especially when multiple parties or insurance policies are involved.

An experienced attorney knows how to deal with these complexities, build a solid case, and fight for the maximum compensation you’re entitled to. 

Here’s how an attorney can make a difference in your case:

One of the most significant benefits of working with a skilled attorney is how we simplify the process for you. While you stay informed and provide essential details about your case, your lawyer takes care of the negotiations, evidence gathering, and legal maneuvering.

Attorneys, like those at Freeburn Law, keep you updated on the progress while managing communication with insurers and other parties involved. This protects your claim and allows you to concentrate on your recovery, knowing that an advocate is dedicated to securing the compensation you deserve.

Let Freeburn Law Help You Pursue the Compensation You Deserve

Accidents can happen when you least expect them, especially during something as routine as an Uber ride. Understanding your rights and securing fair compensation can be vital to your recovery, but these aren’t things you should have to figure out on your own.

Whether it’s untangling insurance policies, determining liability, or pursuing a settlement, the right guidance can make all the difference. At Freeburn Law, our experienced team is dedicated to helping injured rideshare passengers like you get the compensation you deserve. Your recovery and peace of mind are our priority.

Contact Freeburn Law today for a free consultation, and take the first step in securing the justice and support you’re entitled to after an Uber accident.

Can Dash Cam Footage Be Used As Evidence in a PA Car Accident Case?

An extra set of eyes is always beneficial, especially one that captures everything that happens on the road and offers essential evidence. With dashboard cameras becoming increasingly common, many drivers wonder if dash cam footage can be used as evidence in a personal injury case in Pennsylvania.

Dash cams can be invaluable tools for recording the actions and behaviors of other drivers and are effective at disproving false claims. At Freeburn Law, we are advocates for those who have suffered serious injuries or the tragic loss of life in motor vehicle accidents across Central Pennsylvania.

If you were injured in an accident, don't hesitate to contact our office for a free consultation by calling 717-777-7777 or submitting a contact form online.

Pennsylvania Dash Cam Laws: What You Need to Know

In Pennsylvania, the use of dash cams is legal, but there are specific regulations that drivers must adhere to:​

Adhering to these guidelines ensures that your dash cam usage remains within legal boundaries and that any footage obtained is admissible in court.​ 

Admissibility of Dash Cam Footage in Personal Injury Claims

When used in compliance with Pennsylvania laws, dash cam footage can serve as pivotal evidence in personal injury claims. Both insurance companies and the legal system may utilize this footage to assess fault and determine the sequence of events.

However, it's crucial to consult with an experienced attorney before sharing dash cam recordings with insurance adjusters or law enforcement, as the footage could also highlight any contributory negligence on your part.

Advantages and Considerations of Using Dash Cams

Integrating a dash cam into your vehicle can offer several benefits:​

However, there are considerations to keep in mind:​

If you're unsure how dash cam footage might affect your car accident claim or need guidance on legal compliance, don't hesitate to reach out. Contact us today for a free consultation by calling 717-777-7777 or emailing us online. Our experienced attorneys are here to help you navigate the complexities of using dash cam footage in your case.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do Dash Cams Affect Car Accident Claims?

Dash cam footage can strongly influence injury claims by clearly showing fault and preventing false accusations. It captures the entire incident—before, during, and after—providing solid proof. In many cases, this video evidence may be more convincing than photos or witness statements.

Are Dash Cams Legal In Pennsylvania?

Yes, dash cams are legal in Pennsylvania, but with a few rules:

Following these guidelines is essential to ensure your dash cam usage complies with state regulations.

Can You Use Dash Cam Footage in a Personal Injury Claim in Pennsylvania?

If recorded legally, dash cam footage can support your personal injury claim. It helps insurers and courts determine fault, but be cautious. If the footage shows you were at fault, it could hurt your case. Always consult a lawyer before sharing it with insurance or the police.

Quality Representation for Car Accident Victims in Pennsylvania

At Freeburn Law, our experienced car accident lawyers will investigate your claim and carefully examine all the evidence involved in your case. In addition, we'll discuss whether dash cam footage may be used as evidence and how it may impact your case. We've been representing injury victims since 1979 and have recovered over $100 million for our clients.

We have firms located in the following cities:

If you need legal help after an accident, call 717-777-7777 or submit a contact form online.

10 Reasons to Always Report an Accident to the Police and your Insurance Carrier

Following an accident, it is not uncommon for the other party to admit that they were at fault and ask that you not call the police. They may also ask that you not report the accident to your insurance carrier and promise to pay for your damages out of pocket. Ten reasons why you should never listen to them.  

1.) A person who admits fault today may change their story tomorrow.

2.) You are required by law to immediately report an accident to the police by the quickest means possible if it involves any injury to any person or requires any vehicle to be towed. PA C.S. 3746 (a).

3.) You may miss things or fail to obtain critical information in the confusion and shock following an accident.

4.) The police are trained to conduct an independent, objective investigation.

5.) The police will produce an authority crash report.

6.) The crash report will contain information about the parties, vehicles, insurance, and witnesses.

7.) The crash report will provide statements from the parties and witnesses.

8.) A police crash report may be critical to resolving your insurance claims.

9.) You are required by your insurance policy to report the accident to your insurance carrier.

10.) Your failure to report the accident to your insurance carrier may jeopardize your ability to make a claim later if the at-fault party refuses to pay.

Paul Miller’s Law in Pennsylvania: What Drivers Need to Know

Paul Miller’s Law is a new distracted driving law in Pennsylvania named after Paul Miller Jr., a 21-year-old who tragically died in 2010 after a distracted truck driver crashed into his vehicle. This tragic accident inspired lawmakers to take stronger action against distracted driving, a serious problem that causes thousands of accidents and fatalities across Pennsylvania each year.

The law bans the use of hand-held interactive mobile devices while driving, aiming to reduce distractions and improve road safety statewide. Drivers can still use hands-free technology such as Bluetooth calls, voice-activated controls, or mounted GPS devices, but any manual handling of devices while behind the wheel is prohibited.

At Freeburn Law, we can guide you through this new law with ease. By speaking to our personal injury attorneys, you get valuable information from a team that keeps up with local laws and regulations.

What Is Paul Miller’s Law?

Paul Miller’s Law (PA Senate Bill 37) prohibits the use of hand-held interactive mobile devices while driving on Pennsylvania roads. The law aims to reduce distractions caused by handheld phones, tablets, laptops, and similar devices, which contribute to thousands of crashes each year in the state.

Under Paul Miller’s Law:

When Did Paul Miller’s Law Go Into Effect?

Paul Miller’s Law became effective statewide on June 5, 2025. Signed into effect by Governor Josh Shapiro in 2024, this law bans the use of hand-held devices while behind the wheel. While drivers are still permitted to use hands-free technology for phone calls, GPS navigation, and listening to music, any non-hands-free use of devices while driving can now result in a ticket.

What Does Paul Miller’s Law Prohibit?

Paul Miller’s Law takes a stance against distracted driving by banning nearly all use of handheld electronic devices while operating a vehicle. This law targets behaviors that divert a driver’s attention from the road, even during brief stops like red lights or slow traffic. 

The goal is to eliminate the dangerous multitasking that leads to accidents by prohibiting holding, reaching for, or interacting with phones and similar devices in ways that require hands-on use or cause a driver to lose their proper seating position.

Handheld Device Ban

Specific Prohibited Actions

Are There Any Exceptions to Paul Miller’s Law?

There are specific exceptions under the law to balance safety with practical needs:

Penalties for Violating Paul Miller’s Law

Paul Miller’s Law treats handheld device use as a primary offense, meaning law enforcement officers can stop drivers solely for this violation. The law strengthens Pennsylvania’s previous texting bans by including a broader range of manual interactions with devices.

Why Paul Miller’s Law Matters for Driver Safety

Distracted driving accounts for thousands of crashes, injuries, and fatalities annually in Pennsylvania. By banning hand-held device use while driving, Paul Miller’s Law aims to save lives, reduce crashes, and create safer roads for everyone.

What to Do If A Distracted Driver Injures You

Distracted driving car accidents can leave victims with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and mounting financial burdens. Here’s what you should do if you find yourself in this situation:

  1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety come first.
  2. Document Evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, gather witness information, and get a copy of the police report.
  3. Contact an Experienced Attorney: Navigating complex legal processes can be overwhelming. An experienced personal injury attorney can fight on your behalf, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.

How Freeburn Law Can Help

At Freeburn Law, we have extensive experience representing victims of distracted driving accidents in Pennsylvania. We will:

At Freeburn Law, we’ve handled countless cases involving distracted driving and are committed to fighting for victims’ rights. If you or a loved one have fallen victim to distracted driving, know that you don’t have to face it alone. The legal team at Freeburn Law is here to help you fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us today to discuss your distracted driving accident.