SC is now a hands-free state. What that means, what to know
South Carolina’s new hands-free law is here and that means no more texting, scrolling or holding your phone while behind the wheel.
Gov. Henry McMaster signed into law the South Carolina Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act on May 12, marking a significant step toward enhancing road safety across the state.
While this act does not take effect until Sept. 1, this legislation aims to reduce accidents caused by mobile device distractions, aligning South Carolina driving laws with over 30 other states.
So before you buckle up and hit the gas, make sure your phone’s out of sight.
How many accidents are caused by distracted drivers?
According to the latest available traffic collision data from the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, there was a total of 143,426 traffic collisions reported across the state in 2022.
The total number of collisions caused by distracted driving in South Carolina adds up to a total of 9,240 accidents.
What about Beaufort County?
In Beaufort County, 3,726 total traffic collisions were reported in 2022, with 877 accidents caused by distracted drivers, accounting for 23.5% of accidents.
Distracted driving makes up one of the top three causes of accidents in Beaufort County, according to the SCDPS.
What the hands-free law prohibits
While the Palmetto State has banned texting and driving since 2014, this new law prohibits drivers from using mobile electronic devices while operating a motor vehicle, with specific exceptions.
A “mobile electronic device” is defined as any portable electronic device capable of providing data or voice communication, including smartphones, tablets, GPS receivers, electronic games or other stand-alone devices.
Under the law, drivers are not permitted to:
Hold or support a mobile device with any part of their body. This does not prohibit the use of an earpiece or device worn on the wrist used for “voice-based communication.”
Use a mobile device to write, send or read text-based communications.
Watch motion, including a video, movie, game or video call.
Penalties for non-compliance
Violating the provisions of the Hands-Free Act can result in the following penalties:
First Offense: A fine of $100.
Second or Subsequent Offenses: A fine of $200 and the addition of two points to the driver’s license.
The law takes effect on Sept. 1 to allow residents time to adjust to the new requirements and ensure compliance.
During the first 180 days after the law takes effect, officers will only issue warnings for violations.
Violations of this act are classified as summary offenses and do not lead to arrest unless the individual fails to appear in court or pay the imposed fine.
Exceptions to the law
While South Carolina is cracking down on distracted drivers, the Hands-Free Act includes several exceptions for the use of mobile devices. The exceptions include:
Using a device in a voice-activated or hands-free mode.
Using a mobile device to listen to audio-based content, such as navigation services, music or podcasts, provided the device is not held or supported by the driver.
Using a mobile device to report a traffic accident, hazardous road conditions or a medical emergency.
The law does not apply to law enforcement officers, firefighters or emergency medical services personnel while performing official duties.
These exceptions are in place to ensure that the law does not impede necessary communication during emergencies or official duties.
What can you do to avoid distracted driving?
The SCDPS offers tips and guidelines to encourage and support drivers to avoid distractions of all kinds. These include:
Put away your phone when behind the wheel.
Avoid arguments and stressful or emotional conversations with passengers.
Avoid eating while driving.
Be sure children are properly and safely buckled up.
Properly secure pets in a pet carrier or portable kennel.
To learn more about the South Carolina Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act, click here.
