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:
- Drivers may not hold or support an interactive mobile device with any body part.
- Dialing beyond a single button press is banned.
- Reaching for devices in a way that requires maneuvering out of the normal seated position is prohibited.
- The ban applies even while stopped temporarily at traffic lights or in gridlock.
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
- Holding or touching phones or other interactive devices (including smartphones, tablets, portable computers) while driving.
- Texting, emailing, scrolling, or any manual use beyond a single touch.
- Reaching for devices in a way that moves the driver's torso out of the seatbelt position.
- Use of devices even when the vehicle is stopped at traffic lights or in traffic jams.
Specific Prohibited Actions
- Holding or supporting a device with any body part
- Dialing beyond a single button press
- Reaching for a device that causes driver to move out of seated position
Are There Any Exceptions to Paul Miller’s Law?
There are specific exceptions under the law to balance safety with practical needs:
- Emergency calls to 911 or first responders.
- Use of hands-free technology such as Bluetooth, voice-activated controls, mounted GPS devices, or vehicle-integrated systems.
- Use of devices when the vehicle is fully parked and off the roadway.
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.
- First-Year Warnings: From June 5, 2025, to June 5, 2026, drivers caught using handheld devices will receive written warnings only.
- Standard Penalties: Starting June 6, 2026, violations become punishable by a $50 fine plus court costs and fees. This allows police to stop drivers solely for this violation.
- Serious Violations: Distracted driving causing fatal crashes may lead to criminal charges. Conviction for homicide by vehicle involving distraction can result in up to 5 years in prison.
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:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety come first.
- Document Evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, gather witness information, and get a copy of the police report.
- 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:
- Investigate the circumstances of your accident.
- Use Paul Miller’s Law and other relevant statutes to strengthen your claim.
- Fight for full compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
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.
