PENNSYLVANIA - If you are accustomed to holding your phone while driving—whether to check a map, answer a call on speaker, or browse a playlist—it is time to break the habit. Pennsylvania State Troopers are currently in the midst of a major enforcement campaign targeting distracted driving, specifically the use of handheld electronic devices.
Following the enactment of Paul Miller’s Law (Senate Bill 37), which took effect recently, Pennsylvania has joined the growing list of states where holding a mobile device behind the wheel is a primary offense.
The "Mistake": Holding Your Phone
For years, Pennsylvania drivers could technically hold their phones as long as they were not texting. That loophole is now closed. The new law prohibits drivers from using a "handheld interactive mobile device" while the vehicle is in motion.
What is now illegal:
- Holding your phone to your ear during a phone call.
- Holding your phone to view GPS navigation.
- Browsing music, social media, or the internet while driving.
- Holding a device even while stopped temporarily in traffic or at a red light.
The Warning Period
Pennsylvania is currently in a 12-month educational warning period.
State Troopers are actively pulling over drivers who are spotted holding their phones. However, until June 5, 2026, officers are primarily issuing written warnings rather than citations.
Why this matters now: Even though you might not get a monetary fine today, getting pulled over delays your trip and creates a record of the warning. Furthermore, this period is designed to get drivers ready for June 2026, when the "grace period" ends and officers will begin issuing fines of $50 (plus court costs and fees, often totaling over $100) and putting points on licenses for commercial drivers.
Aggressive Driving & The "Move Over" Law
While the handheld ban is the newest major change, State Police are also continuing "enforcement waves" targeting aggressive driving behaviors that often accompany distracted driving.
Troopers are strictly enforcing the Move Over Law, which requires drivers to merge into a lane further away from emergency vehicles, tow trucks, and disabled vehicles with flashing lights. If you cannot safely merge, you must slow down significantly.
Common aggressive behaviors currently on the PSP radar include:
- Tailgating: Following too closely is a leading cause of crashes in the Commonwealth.
- Left Lane Camping: Using the left lane for cruising rather than passing is being cited more frequently to improve traffic flow.
How to Avoid Being Stopped
To avoid seeing flashing lights in your rearview mirror, State Police recommend the following adjustments:
- Go Hands-Free: Use Bluetooth for calls and mount your phone on the dashboard for GPS. (Touching the phone once to answer a call or start a route is generally permitted if the device is mounted, but holding it is not).
- Set It Before You Go: Choose your playlist and GPS destination before shifting into drive.
- Use "Do Not Disturb": Most smartphones have a driving mode that automatically silences notifications.
Pennsylvania State Troopers Are Cracking Down on This Common Driving Habit
State Troopers Are Cracking Down on This Common Driving Habit
Typography
- Smaller Small Medium Big Bigger
- Default Helvetica Segoe Georgia Times
- Reading Mode
PENNSYLVANIA - If you are accustomed to holding your phone while driving—whether to check a map, answer a call on speaker, or browse a playlist—it is time to break the habit. Pennsylvania State Troopers are currently in the midst of a major enforcement campaign targeting distracted driving, specifically the use of handheld electronic devices.
The days of "driving with one hand on the wheel, one hand on the phone" are officially over in Pennsylvania. While the financial penalties do not fully kick in until June 2026, State Troopers are using this time to aggressively spot, stop, and educate drivers. Breaking the habit now will save you money—and potentially your life—down the road.