Pennsylvania drivers will soon face much stricter limits on cell phone use and other forms of distracted driving under Paul Miller’s Law, which takes effect on June 5, 2025.
This landmark legislation makes it illegal for drivers to use or even hold an interactive mobile device (IMD) while operating a vehicle, including at red lights or stop signs.
Why This Matters for Motorcyclists
Although the law applies to all drivers, it’s particularly significant for motorcyclists, who are far more likely to suffer serious or fatal injuries when hit by distracted drivers. One brief glance at a phone can mean the difference between life and death when a rider is sharing the road with much larger vehicles. Distracted driving continues to be a leading cause of crashes in Pennsylvania, and riders are among the most vulnerable.
At Bikers Have Rights, we’ve seen firsthand how devastating these accidents can be — and how often they’re caused by drivers who simply weren’t paying attention.
What Does the New Law Prohibit?
Currently, Pennsylvania law only bans texting while driving. However, under Paul Miller’s Law, drivers will no longer be allowed to hold or use any handheld device for any purpose. That includes:
- Texting, emailing, or making calls
- Browsing the internet or social media
- Taking photos or videos
- Using apps or playing games
An interactive mobile device is defined as any handheld electronic device that can perform these functions and is operated using at least one hand or requires more than a single button press.
Are There Any Exceptions?
Yes, there are limited exceptions under the law. Drivers can:
- Use a mobile device only after safely pulling over and stopping.
- Make emergency calls to police, fire, or EMS using a hands-free system.
- Continue using GPS or navigation systems, as long as the device is integrated into the vehicle or mounted and used hands-free.
Penalties Under Paul Miller’s Law
For the first year (June 5, 2025 – June 4, 2026), violators will receive written warnings. After that, enforcement ramps up:
- Violations become summary offenses.
- A conviction carries a $50 fine, plus court costs and additional fees.
- Police may not seize your phone or device during a stop.
- No points will be added to a non-commercial driver’s license.
- Commercial drivers will face a non-sanction violation on their record.
- Drivers found criminally responsible for a fatal distracted driving crash may face up to five years in prison.
A Law Rooted in Tragedy
Paul Miller’s Law is named in honor of Paul J. Miller Jr., a 21-year-old college student who was tragically killed in 2010 when a distracted tractor-trailer driver veered into oncoming traffic and struck his vehicle. Paul was a senior at East Stroudsburg University, preparing for a career in law enforcement.
Since his death, Paul’s mother has become a tireless advocate for stronger distracted driving laws across the nation. Her efforts were critical in passing this new law in Pennsylvania, making it the 29th state to implement a comprehensive ban on handheld device use while driving.
Distracted Driving Endangers Everyone — Especially Riders
According to PennDOT, more than 11,000 crashes in 2023 involved distracted driving, contributing to a significant number of fatalities. For motorcyclists, the stakes are even higher. Riders don’t have the protection of a steel frame, airbags, or seat belts. When a distracted driver fails to check a blind spot or drifts into another lane, a motorcyclist often pays the price.
This law is a step forward in making Pennsylvania’s roads safer for everyone, but especially for those on two wheels.
Injured by a Distracted Driver? Contact Bikers Have Rights
At Bikers Have Rights, we’re not just any law firm — we’re dedicated to protecting motorcyclists injured by careless or distracted drivers. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a motorcycle crash, call 877-333-0300 or 877-333-0300 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania, we serve injured riders across Pennsylvania and New Jersey.