South Carolina’s Hands-Free & Distracted Driving Act officially went into effect on September 1. This law strengthens the state’s previous texting-and-driving restrictions by expanding upon what drivers can and cannot do with mobile devices while behind the wheel.

Under the new law, drivers may not:

• Hold or support a phone with any part of their body
• Text, email, or interact with apps and websites
• Watch videos, movies, games, or video calls while driving

You may use your device if it’s hands-free or voice-activated, for navigation or audio (like music/podcasts), while lawfully parked, or when reporting emergencies.

Enforcement: For the first 180 days, officers will issue warnings only. After that:

• 1st offense: $100 fine
• 2nd+ offense (within 3 years): $200 fine + 2 points on your license

Visit: https://scdps.sc.gov/handsfree for more information!