By Joyce Novotny-Prettiman, Esquire
On June 5, 2025, Pennsylvania will implement “Paul Miller’s Law” to reduce distracted driving. This new legislation updates a 2012 law that banned texting while driving, expanding it to cover broader mobile device usage. It defines “driving” to include being stopped in traffic, such as at a red light or stop sign.
The law is named in memory of Paul Miller Jr. who lost his life in 2010 due to a distracted driver. Paul was 21 years old when he was killed by a distracted trailer-truck driver. His mother, Eileen Miller, who was begged not to view his body, made a promise to her son to find out how he died and to make a change. The Miller family continued to press for the legislation through six legislative sessions. Similarly, the 2012 ban on texting was motivated, in part, by Jacy Good after her parents were killed in a 2008 crash caused by texting while driving that killed both of her parents and permanently disabled her. That tragedy inspired the 2012 bill which was similar to prior legislative efforts in 2005.
Drivers will now face a primary offense for holding or using a handheld device, allowing law enforcement to ticket them specifically for this violation. A grace period from June 5, 2025, to June 4, 2026, will allow drivers caught violating the law to receive written warnings instead of fines. Starting June 5, 2026, violations will incur a $50 fine, with no points added to the driver’s license. Traffic stop data will be collected to promote transparency.
In 2023, distracted driving was the leading cause of car crashes in Pennsylvania with traffic deaths rising by 2.25% compared to 2022, according to PennDOT’s annual crash information report. The report showed 1,209 deaths in motor vehicle crashes, up from 1,179 in the prior year. There were more than 11,262 distracted driving crashes in 2023, compared to 8,330 alcohol-related crashes.
To avoid becoming a statistic, consider these tips:
- Keep your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.
- Put your phone out of reach.
- Use apps that limit phone use while driving.
- Passengers can help by providing navigation support if needed.
- Educate young drivers about the dangers of distracted driving and model safe behavior.
As June 5, 2025, approaches, drivers should become familiar with the new regulations to avoid potential fines and promote safer driving practices. Embracing hands-free technologies and staying focused while driving are essential steps in preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of all road users.
Article References:
https://www.pa.gov/governor /newsroom/2024-press-releases/governor-shapiro-signs–paul-millers-law—banning-the-use-of-h .html
https://www.cdc.gov/distracted-driving/about/#cdc_ heaIth_ safety_ special_ topic_ resources-resources
