A New Era for Road Safety – What Paul Miller’s Law Means for Pennsylvania Drivers
At Thackray Crane, safety is more than just a policy—it’s a core value that drives every lift, every transport, and every mile on the road. As of June 5, 2025, Pennsylvania has taken a significant step forward in road safety with the implementation of Paul Miller’s Law, a new hands-free driving law aimed at reducing distracted driving across the state.
What Is Paul Miller’s Law?
Also known as Pennsylvania’s new distracted driving law, Paul Miller’s Law makes it illegal to use a handheld interactive mobile device while operating a motor vehicle. That includes smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices capable of texting, emailing, browsing, video recording, gaming, or social media use. The law defines “driving” to include moments when a vehicle is temporarily stopped due to traffic or at a light—so being stationary doesn’t mean you’re exempt.
What Does This Law Prohibit?
Under the new law, drivers may not:
- Hold a phone or device in their hand or rest it on their body
- Dial or answer a device by pressing more than one button
- Reach for a device in a way that causes the driver to move out of a proper seated, seat-belted position
Violating this law is now a primary offense, meaning police can pull you over solely for this violation.
Timeline and Penalties
- June 5, 2025 – June 4, 2026: Written warnings will be issued
- June 5, 2026 and beyond: $50 fine, plus court costs and other fees
- Serious consequences: If a distracted driver is convicted of homicide by vehicle, they may receive up to 5 additional years in prison
What’s Still Allowed?
You may:
- Use a device if your vehicle is pulled over and stationary in a safe location
- Use hands-free technology (voice-activated, dashboard-mounted, etc.)
- Use a device in emergency situations to contact law enforcement or emergency services
Why This Law Matters
In 2023 alone, Pennsylvania saw over 11,000 crashes and 65 fatalities linked to distracted driving. Texting drivers have their eyes off the road longer than with nearly any other type of distraction. This law aims to change that—and so do we.
At Thackray, we believe safety doesn’t stop when the workday ends. Whether you’re heading to a job site or home to your family, your attention should be on the road. We support Paul Miller’s Law because it aligns with what we already practice: eliminating distractions, promoting focus, and protecting lives.
Safety Beyond the Job Site
We encourage our team, customers, and industry partners to:
- Mount devices securely if you rely on GPS
- Designate a navigator on long trips or unfamiliar routes
- Set your phone to Do Not Disturb mode while driving
- Speak up if you see a coworker, friend, or family member using their phone behind the wheel
Safety isn’t just something we practice at work. It’s a mindset we take with us everywhere—including the drive home.
For more information on Paul Miller’s Law, visit: www.PennDOT.pa.gov/Safety
