Home / Disasters and Accidents / New PA Law Fines Drivers for Distraction After Fatal Crash
New PA Law Fines Drivers for Distraction After Fatal Crash
7 Jun
Summary
- A tractor operator died after a distracted driver struck his escort vehicle.
- Paul Miller's Law prohibits handheld device use while driving.
- Violators face $50 fines, with the law effective Saturday.
A Bedford County tractor operator, Jarred Bulger, 35, died from injuries sustained on May 18, when a motorist distracted by their cellphone rear-ended an escort vehicle. This vehicle was trailing Bulger's tractor on U.S. Route 30. The impact caused Bulger to be ejected and tragically resulted in his death due to blunt-force trauma.
In response to this and similar incidents, Paul Miller's Law (Pennsylvania Act 18 of 2024) takes effect on Saturday. This law prohibits all drivers from using handheld devices, including cellphones, even at stop signs or red lights. Violators will be subject to summary citations and fines starting at $50 plus fees.
The law is named after Paul Miller Jr., who died in Monroe County when a tractor-trailer operator lost control of his vehicle while reaching for a cellphone. Authorities emphasize that hands-free technology is readily available and affordable, making the transition to safer driving habits essential.
