Stacy Stanley | May 11, 2026 | South Carolina Law
South Carolina drivers now have stricter rules for using phones and other electronic devices behind the wheel. The South Carolina Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act took effect on Sept. 1, 2025, and law enforcement began issuing citations on Feb. 28, 2026.
The law is meant to reduce distracted driving crashes by requiring drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road. For drivers across the state, knowing these rules can help prevent tickets and, more importantly, serious accidents.
What Does South Carolina’s Hands-Free Law Prohibit?
South Carolina’s previous distracted-driving law focused mainly on texting while driving. The new law goes further.
Under the current hands-free law, drivers cannot:
- Hold or support a phone or mobile device with any part of the body
- Read, type, or send text messages or emails
- Use apps or browse websites while driving
- Watch videos, movies, games, or video calls on a device
The law applies to phones, tablets, and other electronic devices.
Drivers may still use hands-free technology. For example, Bluetooth, dashboard mounts, voice commands, and some smartwatch features may be allowed if they allow a driver to communicate without holding the device.
The point of the law is straightforward: drivers should keep their eyes on the road, keep their hands free, and focus on the road.
Why Distracted Driving Is So Dangerous
Most drivers know they should not text while driving, but distractions can still be tempting. A quick glance at a notification may not seem like much, but a few seconds is enough time for traffic to stop, a pedestrian to step into the road, or another driver to make a sudden move.
Using a phone while driving can involve three types of distraction at once:
- Visual distractions: taking your eyes off the road
- Manual distractions: taking your hands off the wheel
- Cognitive distractions: taking your mind off driving
That combination makes phone use especially dangerous. Distracted driving accidents can cause serious injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, internal injuries, and fatal harm.
What Are the Penalties for Violating This Law?
South Carolina drivers who violate the hands-free law can face fines and points on their driving records.
The penalties include:
- First offense: $100 fine plus court costs
- Second or later offense within three years: $200 fine, court costs, and two points on the driver’s license
A first offense does not add points to a driving record, but repeat violations can have more serious consequences. Points may affect insurance rates and, over time, a driver’s ability to keep driving privileges.
Law enforcement officers can stop drivers who appear to be violating the law, even if no other traffic violation occurred.
Special Rules for Commercial Drivers
Commercial driver’s license holders should be especially careful. Under federal and South Carolina law, certain distracted-driving violations may be considered serious offenses for CDL holders.
Commercial drivers may face a 60-day suspension of their commercial driving privileges if they are convicted of two disqualifying offenses within a three-year period while operating a commercial vehicle.
For truck drivers and other commercial drivers, a hands-free violation can affect more than a driving record. It can also put a job at risk.
Are There Exceptions to the Hands-Free Law?
Yes. The law includes several exceptions.
Drivers may legally use a device when they are:
- Lawfully parked
- Using hands-free or voice-activated features
- Listening to navigation, music, or podcasts without holding the device
- Reporting emergencies, traffic hazards, or crimes
Police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical workers are also exempt while performing official duties.
Still, just because phone use is allowed in some situations does not mean it is always safe. Drivers should set up directions, music, and calls before they start moving.
How Drivers Can Stay Safe and Avoid Violations
A few small habits can make it easier to follow the law and avoid distractions.
Before driving, consider taking these steps:
- Set GPS directions before leaving.
- Connect your phone to Bluetooth.
- Turn on “Do Not Disturb While Driving.”
- Put your phone in a bag, console, or glove compartment.
- Pull over somewhere safe if you need to send a message or use an app.
Parents may also want to talk with teen drivers about the new law. New drivers are still building judgment and confidence, and phone distractions can be especially dangerous during that learning period.
What Happens if a Distracted Driver Causes an Accident?
A driver who violates the hands-free law and causes a crash may be held financially responsible for the resulting harm. In a personal injury claim, evidence of illegal phone use may help show that the driver was negligent.
Victims of distracted driving accidents may be able to seek compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Future medical care
After a car crash, it may not be obvious right away whether distraction played a role. A car accident lawyer can investigate the collision, review available evidence, and help determine whether phone use contributed to the wreck.
Call Stanley Personal Injury Lawyers Today to Arrange a Free Consultation With a North Myrtle Beach Car Accident Lawyer
No text, call, or notification is worth a serious crash. Unfortunately, distracted driving accidents still happen, and victims are often left to deal with painful injuries, medical bills, missed work, and stress they did not cause.
If you or a loved one was hit by a distracted driver in South Carolina, Stanley Personal Injury Lawyers may be able to help. Contact us today to arrange a free consultation with a North Myrtle Beach car accident lawyer.
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