The "South Carolina Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act" aims to enhance road safety by prohibiting the use of mobile electronic devices while operating a motor vehicle on public highways. Under the new law, drivers are not allowed to hold or support a mobile device, read or compose texts, or watch videos while driving. Exceptions are made for drivers who are lawfully parked, initiating voice-based communications, or using devices for navigation or emergency reporting, provided the device is not held or supported by the driver. The act establishes penalties for distracted driving, with a first offense resulting in a $100 fine and subsequent offenses incurring a $200 fine and two points on the driver's record.

Additionally, the bill amends the existing point system for traffic violations to include distracted driving as a two-point violation for second or subsequent offenses. It repeals the previous law regarding the unlawful use of wireless electronic devices while driving and mandates the Department of Transportation to erect signs informing motorists of the new regulations. Law enforcement officers are instructed to issue warnings for violations during the first ninety days after the act's effective date, and the Department of Public Safety is required to report demographic data on citations issued under this act annually.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 56-5-3995, 56-1-720, 56-5-3890
Latest Version: 56-5-3995, 56-1-720, 56-5-3890