Pennsylvania has joined the majority of states in having a law that prohibits the use of hand-held phones and other electronic devices while driving. This June, Gov. Josh Shapiro signed the law, which is named for a man who was killed by a driver who struck him as they reached for their cellphone.
Drivers who are caught holding their cellphone or other device, such as an electronic tablet, while driving can be ticketed. However, that won’t start happening for two years. Beginning in June 2025, officers can issue warnings when they see a driver holding a phone. In June 2026, they can begin issuing tickets.
That will give drivers plenty of time to get used to the new regulation before it is enforced. Of course, it’s safest not to be holding a phone while driving, regardless of the law. Note that all of the states that border Pennsylvania ban hand-held phone use while driving.
Most vehicles manufactured in recent years have onboard phone, GPS and other capabilities, so there’s no need to be holding a device. Even if a vehicle doesn’t have this, a cellphone can legally be placed in a holder, which is inexpensive to purchase.
Hand-held devices are just one cause of distracted driving
Distracted driving in general was the leading cause of crashes in Pennsylvania last year, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) last year. Traffic fatalities rose last year over the previous year.
Of course, distracted driving can be caused by any number of activities that take a driver’s hands off the wheel or their eyes and mind off of the road. Even using an on-board system and bluetooth to talk on the phone, send or receive texts, select a favorite song or podcast or get directions can be distracting.
There are ways for police to determine whether someone was using their cellphone or any electronics (hand-held or not) just prior to a crash. By having experienced legal guidance if you’ve been the victim of a distracted driver, you can better ensure that the crash is fully investigated. This will help you get the full compensation to which you’re entitled.