PA's New Paul Miller's Law: What Drivers Need to Know

Pennsylvania has enacted a major change to its distracted driving laws. Known as Paul Miller's Law, the new legislation makes it illegal for drivers to use a hand-held mobile device while operating a vehicle. The law is designed to reduce distracted driving crashes and make Pennsylvania roads safer.

At Stein Law Group, we frequently receive questions about traffic laws, citations, and driver's rights. Here's what Pennsylvania drivers should know about this new law.

Paul Miller's Law was signed into law in 2024 and became effective on June 5, 2025. The law is named after Paul Miller, a 21-year-old Pennsylvania man who was killed in a crash caused by a distracted driver. The legislation expands Pennsylvania's previous texting-while-driving restrictions by prohibiting the use of hand-held mobile devices for virtually any purpose while driving.

The law applies to "interactive mobile devices," including:

• Smartphones
• Cell phones
• Tablets
• Portable computers
• Personal digital assistants (PDAs)
• Similar electronic communication devices

The law covers activities such as:

• Texting
• Making calls while holding a phone
• Checking email
• Browsing the internet
• Using social media
• Watching or recording videos
• Playing games
• Sending or receiving electronic communications

Simply holding a phone in your hand while driving may be enough to violate the law.

No.

One of the most significant changes under Paul Miller's Law is that the prohibition applies even when your vehicle is temporarily stopped in traffic, at a red light, or at a stop sign. Pennsylvania law considers you to be "driving" whenever you are operating a vehicle on a roadway, including temporary stops.

Yes.

Drivers may still:

• Use Bluetooth or integrated vehicle systems
• Use voice commands
• Make hands-free phone calls
• Use GPS navigation through hands-free technology
• Listen to music through connected devices
• Contact emergency services when necessary

The safest option is to set your destination, playlist, or phone call before beginning your trip.

When the law first took effect on June 5, 2025, Pennsylvania provided a one-year warning period. Beginning June 5, 2026, drivers who violate the law may receive:

• A traffic citation
• A $50 fine
• Court costs and additional fees

Because this is a primary offense, police officers can stop a driver solely for violating Paul Miller's Law. They do not need another traffic violation to initiate a traffic stop.

Yes.

If distracted driving contributes to a serious accident, the legal consequences can be significant. Pennsylvania law provides enhanced penalties in cases involving serious injury or death. A conviction for homicide by vehicle involving distracted driving can result in additional criminal penalties.

To avoid citations and improve safety:

• Put your phone away before driving.
• Use hands-free technology when available.
• Program GPS directions before starting your trip.
• Avoid checking notifications at red lights or in traffic.
• Pull over safely if you need to use your phone.

If you have been cited for a traffic violation or have questions about your rights during a traffic stop, the attorneys at Stein Law Group can help. Our firm represents clients throughout Western Pennsylvania in traffic matters, criminal defense cases, and related legal issues.

To schedule a consultation, contact Stein Law Group today.