Starting June 5, 2025, Pennsylvania is taking a major step toward safer roads with the implementation of Pennsylvania’s new distracted driver law. Called the Paul Miller’s Law—it is a new distracted driving law that targets the use of handheld devices behind the wheel.
At Blue Marsh Insurance, we believe in helping our clients stay informed and protected. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe (and legal) on the road.
What Is Paul Miller’s Law?
Paul Miller’s Law makes it a primary offense to use a handheld interactive mobile device (IMD) while operating a vehicle. That means law enforcement can pull you over solely for having a device in your hand while driving—no other violation necessary.
What’s Considered an IMD?
An interactive mobile device includes:
- Smartphones
- Handheld wireless phones
- Tablets and portable computers
- Any device used for texting, emailing, browsing the internet, using social media, streaming video, gaming, or communicating electronically
What Counts as “Driving”?
The law defines driving as any time your vehicle is on a highway, even if you’re temporarily stopped at a traffic light, stop sign, or in heavy traffic.
In short: If your engine’s on and you’re in traffic—you’re driving in the eyes of the law.
What’s Prohibited in Pennsylvania’s Distracted Driving Law?
Under the new law, you cannot:
- Hold or support a phone or device with your hands or body
- Press more than one button to answer or dial
- Reach for a device in a way that takes you out of the driving position
What Are the Penalties?
The law will be rolled out in phases:
June 5, 2025 – June 4, 2026: Written warnings only
June 5, 2026 and beyond:
- $50 fine, plus court costs and fees
- If a distracted driver causes a fatal crash, up to five additional years in prison may be added to their sentence
Are There Exceptions to Pennsylvania’s Distracted Driving Law?
Yes. You may use your device if:
- Your vehicle is pulled over in a safe, legal location and is completely stationary
- You are contacting emergency services
Hands-free and voice-activated systems are allowed, as long as they do not require holding the device.
Reminder: Texting-While-Driving Is Already Banned
This new law builds on Pennsylvania’s existing texting-while-driving ban, which already prohibits sending or reading text messages while driving.
Violations carry a $50 fine, but do not add points to your license—unless you hold a commercial driver’s license.
It’s Not Just Phones—Other Driving Distractions to Avoid
Distracted driving includes more than just using a phone. Common (and dangerous) distractions include:
- Eating or drinking while driving
- Adjusting music or navigation
- Grooming (applying makeup, brushing hair)
- Talking to passengers—especially for teen drivers
- Looking at crash scenes, billboards, or off-road activity
Final Thoughts from Blue Marsh Insurance
As this law goes into effect, now is a great time to review your driving habits—and your auto insurance policy. Avoiding distractions not only keeps you safe but can help you maintain a clean driving record and lower premiums.
If you have any questions about your coverage or want to ensure you’re fully protected on the road, reach out to us today. We’re here to help you drive with confidence—hands on the wheel, eyes on the road.
For a complimentary auto insurance proposal, click here!
A little more about Blue Marsh Insurance…
When he founded Blue Marsh, Tom Davenport wanted to create a different kind of insurance company. One that’s built on personal relationships and a local presence. One where you, the customer, feel more like a friend.
As an independent insurance agency, Blue Marsh Insurance represents a carefully selected group of financially strong, reputable insurance companies. Therefore, we are able to offer you the best coverage at the most competitive price.
If you’re interested in starting a quote online or having us take a look at your current policies, click here!