06/05/2026
Important reminder for the Plum Borough Community:
Today (June 5th, 2026), “Paul Miller’s Law” goes into effect. The law makes it illegal to use a hand-held cell phone while driving.
Drivers are prohibited from using hand-held devices while driving, even while stopped temporarily due to traffic, a red light, or other momentary delays. 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. Law enforcement will have the ability to issue citations to violators.
Under the law, drivers can still use their phone’s hands-free technology, to make phone calls, use a GPS, and listen to music.
“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.”
The law is named for Paul Miller, Jr., who was tragically killed in a crash with a tractor trailer in 2010, 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.
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 is believed to be underreported due to many drivers’ reluctance to admit to being distracted at the time of a crash.
If you are the driver, follow these steps for a safe drive:
• 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.
