The Town of Fort Mill is informing residents about a new South Carolina state law prohibiting the holding of and using electronic devices while driving. The new S.C. Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act, which takes effect on Sept. 1, will require drivers to put down their phones, tablets and other electronic devices while driving. The law is designed to improve driver focus and safety on South Carolina roads.
According to the S.C. Department of Public Safety, under the new law, drivers are not allowed 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 read, compose, or transmit texts, emails, app interactions, or website information.
- Watch motion on a mobile device, including a video, movie, game, or video call.
Penalties
Law enforcement will only issue warnings during the first 180 days the law is in effect and will begin issuing tickets after that period. First offenders will receive a $100 fine, while second or subsequent offenses (within three years) will receive a $200 fine and two points on their driving record.
For drivers with a commercial driver's license (CDL) and operating a commercial motor vehicle, if they are convicted of two violations within a three-year period, their CDL could be disqualified for 60 days by the S.C. Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Exceptions
There are some exceptions to the new law, including drivers who are:
- Lawfully parked or stopped.
- Using a device in voice-activated or hands-free mode.
- Using a mobile device for audio content like navigation, music, or podcasts without holding it.
- Reporting traffic accidents, hazardous conditions, or medical emergencies.
- Law enforcement, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel are exempt while performing official duties.
For more information, residents can visit the S.C. DPS website at https://scdps.sc.gov/handsfree.