As of September 1, 2025, South Carolina drivers are no longer allowed to hold their phones while behind the wheel. The new hands-free driving law is designed to reduce distracted driving and improve safety on the road. Whether you commute daily or are just passing through the Palmetto State, this law affects you. And if you’re involved in a car accident or cited for a traffic violation, it could also impact your legal responsibilities.

Understanding the new legislation can help you stay compliant, avoid costly tickets, and know your rights if something goes wrong.

What the Hands-Free Driving Law Prohibits

Under the hands-free driving law, South Carolina drivers cannot:

• Hold a phone or other electronic device while operating a motor vehicle.
• Watch videos or record footage while driving.
• Use a phone for texting, emailing, or browsing unless it is hands-free (via voice or mounted device).

You can still use navigation, music, and voice calls, but only through hands-free technology like Bluetooth or a dashboard mount. The law applies to all roads, including highways and local streets, and covers drivers of all ages.

Penalties for Violating the Law

A first offense comes with a $100 fine. A second or subsequent offense within 24 months can result in a $200 fine and two points added to your license. More importantly, a violation could also be used as evidence of negligence if you’re involved in an accident.

That’s where the legal implications come into play.

How This Law Affects Personal Injury and Traffic Cases

If you were hit by a driver who violated the hands-free driving law, that detail could strengthen your personal injury case. On the flip side, if you were holding your phone during a crash, it might be used to argue that you were partly or fully at fault. South Carolina follows comparative negligence laws, meaning your compensation could be reduced if you’re found even partially responsible.

Having a skilled attorney can make all the difference in interpreting and applying these legal nuances.

When to Contact an Attorney

You should consult a traffic or personal injury attorney if:

• You receive a citation under the new hands-free law.
• You’re involved in an accident where distracted driving is a factor.
• You’re unsure whether your behavior or the other driver’s violated the law.

A local attorney can help protect your rights, determine fault, and guide you through the claims or defense process.

Staying Safe and Compliant

To stay on the right side of the law:

• Use voice-activated controls.
• Mount your phone on your dashboard or windshield.
• Avoid taking calls, texting, or adjusting apps while in motion.

It might take some time to adjust your habits, but doing so not only keeps you legal, it keeps everyone on the road safer.

What This Means for Drivers in South Carolina

The hands-free driving law marks a big shift in South Carolina traffic policy. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a tourist heading to Myrtle Beach, you need to understand and follow these new rules. It’s about protecting lives, reducing preventable crashes, and creating safer streets for all.

If you have legal questions about how this law might affect your situation, an attorney can provide the guidance you need.

Local Support for Local Drivers

At Winslow Law, we serve drivers and families across South Carolina from our offices in Pawleys Island, Myrtle Beach, and Columbia. Whether you’re dealing with a traffic citation or a serious injury from a distracted driving accident, our team is here to help.

Winslow Law—Committed counselors for our clients and community.

FAQs

1. Can I still use my phone for GPS under the hands-free driving law?

Yes, you can use your phone for navigation, but it must be mounted or used through hands-free controls. You cannot hold the phone while driving.

2. Does this law apply to drivers from out of state?

Yes, the hands-free driving law applies to anyone operating a vehicle in South Carolina, regardless of where their license was issued.

3. Will a violation of this law go on my driving record?

If you’re cited for violating the law, the citation is a civil fine and won’t add points unless it’s a second offense or more. Repeat violations can impact your insurance and legal standing in an accident.