By Kate Maher Truzzolino, AVP of Corporate Marketing
Paul Miller’s Law has officially taken effect, impacting drivers throughout Pennsylvania. This means all drivers, including those operating vehicles on behalf of a business, must comply. If you are responsible for overseeing your company’s fleet program or other business driving policies, it is time to align expectations and adjust procedures for your team.
We have compiled the five most important takeaways for businesses about Paul Miller’s Law below. If you have further questions or concerns, please reach out today.
1. It creates a strict “hands-free only” standard with no gray areas.
This includes time spent at red lights, in traffic or at stop signs. Businesses can no longer rely solely on informal “no texting while driving” policies. The legal standard is now a true hands-free requirement while operating a vehicle.
2. Full enforcement is now underway, making compliance more important than ever.
Full enforcement of the law began on June 6th, 2026. Violations carry financial penalties and can lead to more serious consequences if there is a crash. Documented policies, driver training, and accountability measures are now more important than ever.
3. Employer liability and litigation exposure may now increase.
Violations may be used as evidence in litigation and could contribute to higher claim severity or damage awards following an accident. A citation for using a hand-held device at the time of an accident may increase an employer’s exposure to liability and complicate claim defense efforts.
In some circumstances, a hand-held device violation involving a commercial driver may also affect a motor carrier’s safety performance metrics under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
4. Review policies and driver training programs.
Businesses should review fleet safety policies, driver handbooks, and vehicle-use procedures to ensure they align with the new requirements. Organizations should adopt formal hands-free driving policies that include driver acknowledgment forms, clear disciplinary standards, and ongoing reinforcement through training and supervision. Drivers should clearly understand both the law and company expectations for compliance.
5. Review distracted-driving controls and claims management practices.
Companies should assess vehicle technology, mobile device policies, telematics systems, and post-accident investigation procedures to ensure they support compliance and reduce liability exposure.
Conclusion
Pennsylvania now joins a growing number of states that have adopted hands-free driving laws. Businesses should anticipate continued regulatory focus on distracted driving and fleet safety nationwide. Paul Miller’s Law reflects a broader shift towards stricter expectations around driver behavior and corporate responsibility. For companies with fleet exposure, this law reflects how important proactive risk management really is. Organizations should use this opportunity to update their internal policies, strengthen driver training programs, and establish clear accountability measures.
By taking proactive steps now, your organization will be better positioned to reduce accidents, limit liability and control your long-term insurance and litigation costs. Most importantly, though, you will contribute to safer roadways for your employees and community.
If you have questions about how Paul Miller’s Law affects your business or fleet operations, our team is here to help.
