New Handheld Device Law In Place

Senate Bill 37, known as Paul Miller's Law, was recently signed into law by Gov. Josh Shapiro. It prohibits the use of hand-held devices, with violators subject to a ticket if caught.

Phones may still be used to alert emergency responders, make phone calls, use a GPS, or listen to music via hands-free technology.

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.