Explaining Pennsylvania’s “No Touch” Law

Distracted driving is a major cause of auto accidents these days. According to the CDC, 9 people die every day in distracted driving accidents. Any activity that diverts the driver’s attention from their primary task of keeping their eyes on the road can result in distracted driving. It is particularly high in teen drivers, who are more likely to be on their phones while driving. According to a national survey, 39% of high school students admit to texting while driving and 60.2% of drivers report talking on the phone while driving. The state of Pennsylvania plans to drastically lower those stats with a "No Touch" law. 

What the "No Touch" Law Is

In Pennsylvania, it’s known as Paul Miller’s law after the tragic victim of a distracted driving accident. The law, which became effective in 2025, prohibits the use of any handheld device by the driver of a vehicle, even if the vehicle is stopped. This prohibits drivers from scrolling, tapping, holding or otherwise manipulating a cell phone or PED with their hands. This applies even in traffic jams or at stop signs or stop lights. Exceptions will be made if the call was to 911 or the car was parked off the roadway. Also allowed is the use of a securely mounted device for GPS or music that requires only a single tap or voice command. In any case, the "No Touch" law is a primary enforcement law. This means a police officer can pull you over just if they see you with a phone in hand without any other violation. 

Saucon Insurance Agency Serving Bethlehem PA

We at the Saucon Insurance Agency, serving the Bethlehem, PA area, advise you to drive safely this year. Give us a call with any questions you have about auto insurance.