Is Distracted Driving a Crime in Pennsylvania?
Distracted driving is a major cause of car accidents in Pennsylvania, including in smaller towns like Edinboro. Many drivers don’t realize how dangerous and sometimes illegal it is to drive while distracted. If you were hurt in a crash caused by another driver, you may be wondering: Is distracted driving a crime in Pennsylvania?
In this post, we’ll explain Pennsylvania distracted driving laws, when distracted driving can lead to criminal charges, and what to do if you’ve been injured in a distracted driving accident.
What Is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving happens when a driver’s attention is taken away from the road. In Pennsylvania, distracted driving includes:
- Texting or reading messages
- Talking on the phone
- Eating or drinking
- Using GPS or adjusting controls
- Talking to passengers
- Looking at roadside distractions
Even a split-second glance away from the road can cause a serious crash. According to PennDOT, there were over 11,000 distracted driving crashes in Pennsylvania in recent years. These crashes injured thousands of people and caused dozens of deaths.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also reports that in 2022 alone, 3,308 people were killed in the U.S. due to distracted driving.
What Does the Law Say About Distracted Driving in Pennsylvania?
Yes, distracted driving is illegal in Pennsylvania—but only under certain conditions.
Texting and Driving Is Illegal
Pennsylvania law makes it illegal to send, read, or write text messages while driving. This includes using a phone, tablet, or any wireless device. The law is clear:
“No driver shall operate a motor vehicle while using an Interactive Wireless Communication Device to send, read or write a text-based message.”
— PA Vehicle Code § 3316
Police can pull you over just for texting, even if you aren’t speeding or breaking any other traffic laws.
Other Forms of Distraction May Be Legal—Until They Cause Harm
Not all distractions are illegal. Eating or talking to a passenger may not result in a ticket. But if that distraction leads to careless or reckless driving, the driver may face criminal charges or be held responsible for any injuries.
When Does Distracted Driving Become a Crime?
Distracted driving can become a crime in Pennsylvania if it causes a crash that injures or kills someone.
Possible Criminal Charges Include:
- Careless Driving (PA § 3714): Driving without due caution. Often a summary offense with fines and license points.
- Reckless Driving (PA § 3736): Driving with willful disregard for safety. This can result in larger fines and license suspension.
- Vehicular Homicide (PA § 3732): If someone dies in the crash, the distracted driver may face felony charges and jail time.
In short, distracted driving can quickly turn into a criminal matter if it causes harm.
What If You Were Hurt by a Distracted Driver?
If a distracted driver caused your car accident, you have legal rights. You may be entitled to financial compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Vehicle damage
- Permanent injuries
You don’t have to prove the driver broke the texting law. If they were negligent—even if they were eating or reaching for something—you can still file a personal injury claim.
A personal injury lawyer can help you collect evidence, such as:
- Cell phone records
- Dashcam or surveillance footage
- Police reports
- Witness statements
Distracted Driving Accidents in Edinboro and Erie County
Distracted driving is not just a big-city problem. Edinboro and surrounding areas in Erie County experience crashes every year caused by driver inattention.
Local roads like Route 6N, Route 99, and Interstate 79 see high volumes of traffic, especially from commuters and students attending Edinboro University. Even in rural areas, a brief distraction can lead to a life-changing crash.
What to Do After a Distracted Driving Crash
If you were involved in an accident caused by a distracted driver, follow these steps:
- Call 911 and seek medical attention.
- Take photos of the vehicles and the scene.
- Get contact information from witnesses.
- Avoid discussing fault at the scene.
- Contact an Edinboro car accident attorney as soon as possible.
Distracted Driving Legal Consultation in Edinboro, PA
If you or a loved one were injured or killed in a distracted driving accident in Edinboro, PA, the Travis Law Firm is here to help. Our experienced legal team understands the complexities of distracted driving cases and is dedicated to fighting for the compensation you deserve.
Why Choose Us?
- Expertise: We know what it takes to win distracted driving cases in Pennsylvania.
- Free Consultation: Discuss your case with our investigative and legal teams at no cost.
- Personalized Support: Ask questions, understand your rights, and explore your legal options.
Take Action Today
Contact the Travis Law Firm for a free case review. Call us at (814) 277-2222 or reach out online for a convenient consultation. Whether pursuing a lawsuit or a wrongful death claim, we’ll guide you every step of the way to secure the justice and compensation you deserve.