A new South Carolina law aimed at reducing distracted driving will go into effect on Sept. 1. The Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act prohibits the use of handheld mobile devices while operating a vehicle and is designed to make roadways throughout the Palmetto State safer for everyone.

What the new law says   

Under the new law, drivers may not:   

• Hold or support a mobile device with any part of their body while driving. That means it can't sit on your lap either. (Note: This does not apply to the use of earpieces or wrist-worn devices used for voice communication.)
• Read, write or send text messages, emails or other electronic communications.
• Interact with apps or browse websites.
• Watch videos, play games or participate in video calls on a mobile device. 

"Mobile electronic device" means a cellular telephone, portable computer, GPS receiver, electronic game, or anything substantially similar. It does not include a citizens band radio, amateur radio, ham radio, commercial two-way radio or its functional equivalent, subscription-based emergency communication device, or prescribed medical device.

The law does not apply when someone is legally stopped or parked.

Drivers can initiate a voice-based communication that is automatically converted by the device and sent as text, provided that the device is not held by the operator or supported with any part of the body by the operator. 

What to expect  

For the first 180 days after the law takes effect, law enforcement officers will issue warnings for violations. After this grace period, violations may result in fines and points on your driver’s license. 

Why it matters   

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of traffic accidents, according to the S.C. Department of Public Safety. This law is an important step in improving safety on South Carolina roadways by encouraging drivers to stay focused on the road, not their screens, state officials said.