The Shapiro Administration is urging motorists to avoid all distractions, and to put the phone down while driving in honor of National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. 

Governor Shapiro is also reminding residents of Paul Miller's Law. Senate Bill 37 was signed into law last year and will go into effect on June 5, 2025.

The law prohibits the use of hand-held devices while driving, even while stopped temporarily due to traffic, a red light, or other momentary delays. Pennsylvania is the 29th state in the nation to ban distracted driving. 

“Safe driving laws like Paul Miller’s Law are about saving lives,” said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. “Your choices behind the wheel can change lives forever. National Distracted Driving Awareness Month is the perfect time for all motorists to commit to putting the phone down. Please make the safe choice and never drive distracted.”

Paul Miller’s Law prohibits any driver from using a handheld cell phone while driving a motor vehicle. Drivers can still use their phones to alert emergency responders and, if they are using hands-free technology, to make phone calls, use a GPS, and listen to music.

The law is named after Paul Miller Jr., who was killed in a crash with a tractor trailer in 2010 in Monroe County as the result of a distracted driver who reached for their phone while driving. 

According to data from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), in 2023 there were 11,262 crashes involving a distracted driver, resulting in nearly 6,700 injuries and 65 fatalities. 

If you are the driver, follow these steps for a safe drive:

  • If you are expecting a text message or need to send one that can’t wait, pull over and park your car in a safe location before using your device.
  • Ask a passenger to be your “designated texter.” Allow them access to your phone to respond to calls or messages.
  • Do not engage in social media scrolling or messaging while driving.
  • Cell phone use is habit-forming. Struggling to not text and drive? Activate your phone’s “Do Not Disturb” feature, silence notifications, or put your phone in the trunk, glove box, or back seat of your vehicle until you arrive at your destination.

More information on distracted driving can be found on PennDOT's website.