Pennsylvania Is Cracking Down On This Driving Habit Travelers Should Know In 2026

Bans on texting while driving are nothing new in the U.S., but Pennsylvania will take its enforcement to the next level starting on June 6, 2026. Whether you are driving to the historic Valley Forge outside of Philadelphia, or heading to rural Pennsylvania for some late-night star gazing in Cherry Springs State Park, think twice before you reach for your phone — even at a red light or stop sign. Otherwise, you may be issued a citation and a fine by police. 

The increased enforcement comes after Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro signed Senate Bill 37, which came into effect on June 5, 2025, making it illegal to use hand-held devices while driving. The bill is also called Paul Miller's Law, named after a man who was killed when a driver of a tractor trailer distracted by their cellphone crashed into his vehicle in 2010. Eileen Miller, Paul Miller's mother, provided a statement in a press release shared by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT). "My son did everything right – he was killed by someone else's unsafe choices behind the wheel," she said. "Paul Miller's Law will be a beacon of protection for every driver and passenger in Pennsylvania."

According to Paul Miller's Law, drivers can still use hands-free technology to listen to music, make phone calls, and use a GPS. The only exception, per the PennDOT press release, is alerting first responders in an emergency situation. Since the law was introduced, police officers have been issuing written warnings to drivers caught using their cellphones. As of June 6, however, $50 fines will be issued, in addition to potential court-related fees. Both residents and visitors in Pennsylvania are told to switch to hands-free cellphone use while driving in the state. 

According to Pennsylvania State Police, distracted driving is far from a minor offense. Police emphasize that violations will be taken seriously and actively enforced. "The Pennsylvania State Police will enforce the law to its full extent," Commissioner Colonel Christopher Paris said in the press release. "Just one second of inattention can result in irreversible consequences. We urge all drivers to stay focused behind the wheel."

PennDOT has shared a few tips for motorists to stay safe and comply with the law. First, if you must send a text message, pull over and find a safe place to park before doing so. If you're traveling with others, have one of your passengers handle communications so you can keep your eyes on the road. Put your phone on "Do Not Disturb" mode or out of sight — in the glove box or the trunk, if you have to — in order to avoid temptation.

Distracted drivers were responsible for 9,950 crashes in Pennsylvania in 2024, according to data obtained by PennDOT. The real number may be higher, as many drivers involved in accidents are not truthful about being distracted behind the wheel, the department says. Of these nearly 10,000 distracted driving-related accidents, 49 people lost their lives and 6,000 injuries were reported.

"Focusing on the road while driving is one of the best ways to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you," said Pennsylvania Insurance Commissioner Michael Humphreys in the press release. He added that safe driving habits can make your insurance more affordable, as insurance providers determine rates based on driving records and past offenses.

American roadways are the busiest during the summer months, according to AAA, meaning visitors will need to be extra mindful while they're behind the wheel. Whether your summer travel plans include visiting Pennsylvania's largest theme park, or simply passing through the state on a road trip, be sure to follow the local laws.