Latest news with #PaulMiller'sLaw
Newsweek
a day ago
- Automotive
- Newsweek
Laws to Change for 9 Million Drivers this Week
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. A new law goes into effect this week in Pennsylvania that will make it illegal for drivers to hold a phone or other device while operating a vehicle. Why It Matters The new law addresses a safety concern that contributed to more than 11,000 crashes in Pennsylvania in 2023, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. That same year, there were 3,275 deaths tied to distracted driving across the country, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Pennsylvania's new hands-free driving law—officially known as Paul Miller's Law—will go into effect on Thursday, making it illegal for drivers to hold any electronic device while behind the wheel. The law, which Governor Josh Shapiro signed last year, aims to reduce distracted driving incidents throughout the state. There are 31 states across the country that have already implemented hands-free driving bans, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. What To Know Under the new Pennsylvania law, drivers are prohibited from holding any electronic device for calls, texting, emailing, or using the internet while driving. The new law states that even "supporting" a phone "with another part of the body" or "reaching" for a phone "in a manner that requires a driver to maneuver so that the driver is no longer in a seated driving position" will now be illegal in the Keystone State. A driver uses a cellphone while behind the wheel in New York City on April 30, 2016. A driver uses a cellphone while behind the wheel in New York City on April 30, are exceptions for emergency situations where contacting first responders is necessary but in other cases drivers must operate devices vocally via Bluetooth connections. State Senator Rosemary Brown, a Republican who sponsored the bill, told Newsweek in a statement on Monday that the law—named in memory of Paul Miller Jr, a Pennsylvanian who was killed in a crash involving a distracted driver in 2010—is a "major step forward in improving safety on Pennsylvania's roads." "This law is not about punishing drivers," Brown said. "It's about protecting every Pennsylvanian who gets behind the wheel or crosses the street. I'm grateful to PennDOT and all the dedicated partners who helped bring this legislation to the finish line." She said the law taking effect is "deeply meaningful and long overdue" after more than a decade of advocacy. A Pennsylvania state police spokesperson told Newsweek that Pennsylvanians are encouraged to use hands-free systems or voice-assist features while driving and explain to young drivers the risks and legal consequences of distracted driving. Joel Feldman, an advocate for ending distracted driving who founded the organization EndDD after his daughter Casey Feldman died in a crash involving a distracted driver, told Newsweek the law is a "start," but that there will continue to be "preventable" crashes involving distracted drivers. "Laws help, but will not effect the societal change necessary to make distracted driving socially unacceptable. We hate it when we see others driving distracted, yet we drive distracted," he said. "If we treated others the way we wanted to be treated we would not drive distracted." In total, 31 states fully ban holding phones while driving, while others may ban the use of phones while driving in certain situations, such as when driving through a school zone or for teenage drivers. All of Pennsylvania's neighbors also have handheld bans. Only one state—Montana—does not prohibit texting and driving. What People Are Saying Governor Shapiro wrote in a statement last year: "This commonsense, bipartisan legislation—passed and signed into law in honor of Paul Miller's legacy—empowers our state and local police to stop distracted driving and make our roads and communities safer. This law also increases transparency and ensures accountability at traffic stops while providing crucial public safety data to keep our roads safe. This is an example of what we can accomplish when we work together—senators and representatives from both parties came together to pass commonsense legislation that will save lives across Pennsylvania." Eileen Miller, mother of Paul Miller Jr, wrote in a statement: "My son did everything right—he was killed by someone else's unsafe choices behind the wheel. This law is for every family in Pennsylvania that doesn't have to experience two state troopers knocking on their door to tell them that their loved one was killed by distracted driving. Paul Miller's Law will be a beacon of protection for every driver and passenger in Pennsylvania." Feldman said: "Distracted driving is selfish and disrespectful and inconsistent with everyone's values. If we think about who we are, our values and the example we want to be for others, particularly our children, we would give up our driving distractions." What Happens Next Failure to comply with the law could result in a $50 fine. There will also be a one-year "warning period" as public officials and officers continue to educate the public and enforce the new hands-free law statewide.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Bill OBoyle: Paul Miller's Law really is about saving lives
Jun. 1—WILKES-BARRE — PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll this week said Paul Miller's Law is about saving lives. Carroll is absolutely correct — if, and only if, people listen to what he said. And to what Paul Miller Jr.'s mother has said over and over again since her son was killed as a result of a distracted driver. And trust me on this, Eileen Miller's advocacy is not over — she will always fight to convince all drivers to not text and drive and she will also advocate for stronger penalties for those who refuse to comply. "Your choices behind the wheel can change lives forever," Carroll said. "Make the safe choice. Put your phone out of reach and don't text and drive. One text, one glance down — it could kill someone. And it's not worth it." Paul Miller's Law takes effect on Thursday , June 5 — making it illegal to use a hand-held cell phone while driving. Gov. Josh Shapiro signed Senate Bill 37 into law on June 5, 2024 — and now, one year later, Paul Miller's Law goes into effect to prohibit the use of hand-held devices while driving, even while stopped temporarily due to traffic, a red light or other momentary delay. Under Paul Miller's Law, 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 for Paul Miller Jr., who was tragically 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. Since his death, Paul's mother Eileen Miller has become a national advocate for stronger laws to curb distracted driving. Listen to how this devastating news would inspire Paul's mom to become the loudest voice advocating for drivers to use common sense behind the wheel. She never wants any other parent to experience what she and her husband, Pail Sr., have endured. "Nearly 15 years ago, two Dunmore state troopers knocked on my door to tell me that my son was killed," said Mrs. Miller. "My son did everything right — he was killed by someone else's unsafe choices behind the wheel. This law is for every family in Pennsylvania that doesn't have to experience two state troopers knocking on their door to tell them that their loved one was killed by distracted driving. Paul Miller's Law will be a beacon of protection for every driver and passenger in Pennsylvania." PSP Commissioner Colonel Christopher Paris said the Pennsylvania State Police will enforce the new law to its full extent. "Distracted driving is not a minor offense," Col. Paris said. "Just one second of inattention can result in irreversible consequences. We urge all drivers to stay focused behind the wheel." According to PennDOT data, in 2024 there were 9,950 crashes involving a distracted driver, resulting in more than 6,000 injuries and 49 fatalities. Distracted driving crash data, however, is believed to be under-reported due to many drivers' reluctance to admit to being distracted at the time of a crash. Safe driving tips —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. Cell phone use is not the only distraction while driving. Anything that takes your attention away from driving, your eyes off the road or your hands off the wheel is a distraction. Driver behavior is the leading factor in 83% of the crashes that occur annually in Pennsylvania. These behaviors include driving distracted, impaired or aggressive. For information on distracted driving, visit As Carroll said, and as Eileen Miller passionately believes, Paul Miller's law will save lives. That should be enough for all drivers to obey this law. Reach Bill O'Boyle at 570-991-6118 or on Twitter @TLBillOBoyle.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Erie law enforcement express importance of new Paul Miller law
A new law banning handheld cell phone use while driving, known as 'Paul Miller's Law,' will take effect in Pennsylvania on June 5. The legislation, signed by Governor Josh Shapiro, aims to reduce distracted driving incidents by prohibiting the use of any handheld devices while operating a vehicle. This law is named in memory of Paul Miller Jr., who tragically lost his life in a distracted driving accident in 2010. Paul Miller Law goes into effect soon, here's what to know Under the new law, drivers will be prohibited from using handheld devices even when stopped at a red light or stop sign. For the first year, law enforcement officers will issue written warnings to violators. However, starting June 6, 2026, officers will begin issuing summary citations. Rick Lorah, Deputy Chief of Police in the City of Erie, emphasized the importance of the law, stating, 'It's just not worth it, that text message is not worth your life and that text message is not worth the life of another.' Millcreek Township Chief of Police Carter Mook expressed support for the law, noting that it will aid enforcement efforts by eliminating previous exceptions that made it difficult to regulate phone use while driving. Presque Isle beaches named among most underrated in the US The law allows for emergency calls and the use of hands-free technology, providing some flexibility for drivers who need to communicate while on the road. With the implementation of 'Paul Miller's Law,' Pennsylvania aims to enhance road safety by curbing distracted driving, potentially saving lives and preventing accidents. As the law takes effect, drivers are encouraged to adopt safer practices, such as using hands-free devices or designating a passenger to handle phone communications. All facts in this report were gathered by journalists employed by WJET/WFXP. Artificial intelligence tools were used to reformat from a broadcast script into a news article for our website. This report was edited and fact-checked by WJET/WFXP staff before being published. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
7 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Officials remind drivers to put down the phone; Paul Miller's Law to take effect June 5
May 27—WILKES-BARRE — Paul Miller's Law is about saving lives, PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll said on Tuesday. "Your choices behind the wheel can change lives forever," he said. "Make the safe choice. Put your phone out of reach and don't text and drive. One text, one glance down — it could kill someone. And it's not worth it." On Tuesday, in keeping with Gov. Josh Shapiro's commitment to safety on Pennsylvania roads, the Shapiro Administration urged drivers to put down the phone while driving, ahead of the June 5 effective date for Paul Miller's Law, which makes it illegal to use a hand-held cell phone while driving. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), Pennsylvania State Police (PSP), Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PA Turnpike), and Pennsylvania Insurance Department (PID) joined Sen. Rosemary Brown and national advocate Paul Miller Sr. and Eileen Miller, Paul Miller Jr.'s parents, to urge drivers to make safe choices behind the wheel. As part of his mission to provide a safe transportation system for all Pennsylvanians, Gov. Shapiro signed Senate Bill 37 into law on June 5, 2024. Effective June 5, 2025, the law — known as "Paul Miller's Law" — prohibits the use of hand-held devices while driving, even while stopped temporarily due to traffic, a red light, or other momentary delay. Pennsylvania already enforces a texting-while-driving ban that prohibits drivers from using mobile devices to send, read, or write text-based communications while their vehicle is in motion. Beginning June 5, law enforcement will begin issuing written warnings for violations of Senate Bill 37. Law enforcement will have the ability to issue summary citations to violators beginning June 6, 2026. Under Paul Miller's Law, 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. "As the Prime-Sponsor of Senate Bill 37, now Act 18 of 2024, seeing this law go into effect is incredibly rewarding knowing it will save lives," said Sen. Brown, R-Monroe County. "Since day one I have always believed in this commonsense policy. It's important that drivers remember that the cellphone has become the most consistent, repetitive, and lengthy distraction behind the driver's wheel causing significant public safety concerns. This law will change behaviors and save lives. The legislature passed Senate Bill 37, now Act 18, with overwhelming bi-partisan support, and I am confident that my efforts, along with the efforts of my friend Eileen Miller, have Pennsylvania going in the right direction for public safety." The law is named for Paul Miller Jr., who was tragically 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. Since his death, Paul's mother Eileen Miller has become a national advocate for stronger laws to curb distracted driving. "Nearly 15 years ago, two Dunmore state troopers knocked on my door to tell me that my son was killed," said Eileen Miller, Paul Miller Jr.'s mother. "My son did everything right — he was killed by someone else's unsafe choices behind the wheel. This law is for every family in Pennsylvania that doesn't have to experience two state troopers knocking on their door to tell them that their loved one was killed by distracted driving. Paul Miller's Law will be a beacon of protection for every driver and passenger in Pennsylvania." Paul Miller's Law will also work to prevent bias in policing by requiring law enforcement to collect data on drivers pulled over during traffic stops, including race, ethnicity, and gender. The data will be made publicly available in an annual report. "The Pennsylvania State Police will enforce the new law to its full extent," said PSP Commissioner Colonel Christopher Paris. "Distracted driving is not a minor offense. Just one second of inattention can result in irreversible consequences. We urge all drivers to stay focused behind the wheel." According to PennDOT data, in 2024 there were 9,950 crashes involving a distracted driver, resulting in more than 6,000 injuries and 49 fatalities. Distracted driving crash data, however, is believed to be under-reported due to many drivers' reluctance to admit to being distracted at the time of a crash. Safe driving tips —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. Cell phone use is not the only distraction while driving. Anything that takes your attention away from driving, your eyes off the road, or your hands off the wheel is a distraction. Driver behavior is the leading factor in 83% of the crashes that occur annually in Pennsylvania. These behaviors include driving distracted, impaired or aggressive. For information on distracted driving, visit PennDOT's media resources web page offers social media-sized graphics for numerous transportation-related campaigns, including safety topics such as aggressive driving, speeding, distracted driving and seat belts for organizations, community groups, or others who share safety information with their stakeholders. Find PennDOT news on X, Facebook, and Instagram. Reach Bill O'Boyle at 570-991-6118 or on Twitter @TLBillOBoyle.
Yahoo
27-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Pennsylvania law prohibiting use of handheld devices while driving goes into effect next week
(WHTM) — A new law making it illegal to use a handheld device while driving goes into effect in Pennsylvania next week. Paul Miller's Law, which goes into effect on June 5, 2025, prohibits the use of handheld devices while driving or stopped at a stoplight. Pennsylvanians who violate this law will be fined $50. The new law is a bittersweet triumph for a Monroe County mother. The fourth of July will be the 15th anniversary of the day Eileen Miller lost her 21-year-old son, Paul, to a distracted tractor-trailer driver. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Eileen vowed from the morgue to work for change. That change will come next Thursday, when it will be illegal to have a handheld device while driving. Hands-free technology, including Bluetooth, will still be legal, and so will emergency calls. 'It was a long, hard road, but I'm very grateful for all the people that helped me get where I am today,' said Eileen. 'You want to get that phone out of your hand. That's the most important thing. I know that Paul's legacy now will save lives on our roads, and that was always my main goal.' Some states, including New Jersey and New York, have even bigger fines and much less tolerance for the offense, but Eileen Miller said this is a good start. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
