Paul Miller’s Law—one of the latest steps in Pennsylvania’s effort to make the roads safer—prohibits the use of hand-held devices while driving. Named after Paul Miller Jr., who tragically lost his life in 2010 to a distracted driver, this law highlights the dangers of distracted driving and outlines steps that can foster safer driving conditions statewide.
What is Paul Miller’s Law?
Paul Miller Jr. was tragically killed in Monroe County in 2010 when a distracted driver reached for their phone and crashed into his vehicle. This heartbreaking loss has since inspired efforts to address distracted driving—a problem that claims thousands of lives nationally each year.
Paul Miller’s Law, signed into effect by Governor Josh Shapiro in 2024, 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.
Distracted Driving is a Leading Cause of Car Accidents in Pennsylvania
According to PennDOT, there were over 11,000 accidents caused by distracted driving in 2023 alone. These numbers highlight how critical it is to reduce distractions and enhance focus behind the wheel.
Accidents caused by distracted driving often result in severe injuries, fatalities, and long-term consequences. Laws like Paul Miller’s aim to save lives and minimize the tragic stories caused by preventable distractions.
Have you been injured in a distracted driving accident? Contact Freeburn Law to learn how we can help.
Protecting Victims Like Paul Miller Jr.
Eileen Miller, Paul Miller Jr.’s mother, fought tirelessly for over a decade to bring this law to fruition. Her advocacy ensures that fewer families in Pennsylvania are shattered by the preventable consequences of distracted driving.
How Does Paul Miller’s Law Help Distracted Driving Accident Victims?
Encouraging Safer Driving Behavior
By prohibiting hand-held device use, Paul Miller’s Law discourages risky behavior behind the wheel. This extra layer of protection helps prevent accidents and promotes enhanced attention on the road.
Strengthening Distracted Driving Accident Cases
For victims of distracted driving accidents, this law strengthens the framework for holding negligent drivers accountable. If you suspect the other driver was unlawfully using their phone, this law provides grounds to prove negligence and seek fair compensation for damages. If you’ve been in such an accident, our car accident attorneys can help you understand your rights.
Raising Awareness About Distracted Driving Dangers
Paul Miller’s Law also brings greater public awareness to the risks of distracted driving. The limitations outlined by the law remind Pennsylvania drivers to minimize distractions and focus entirely on the road, reducing the likelihood of accidents.
What to Do If You’re Hit By a Distracted Driver
Distracted driving 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.
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.
Take the first step—contact us at (717) 777-7777 or fill out a free consultation form.
