South Carolina’s new Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act went into effect on September 1, 2025. The law makes it illegal for drivers to hold or use a cell phone while behind the wheel. For drivers in Greenville and the Upstate, this law is crucial, given our area’s high rate of distracted driving accidents.
What you need to know about South Carolina’s Hands-Free Law
1. You Can’t Hold Your Phone While Driving
The law prohibits holding or supporting a phone with your hand, shoulder, or any other part of your body while driving. Whether you’re on I-85, Woodruff Road, or Main Street in Greenville, you must use hands-free options like Bluetooth, voice commands, or dashboard mounts.
2. Grace Period Until March 1, 2026
Until March 1, officers will issue warnings only. After that date:
- First offense: $100 fine
- Second offense within 3 years: $200 fine + 2 license points
3. Greenville County Has Some of South Carolina’s Highest Crash Rates
Distracted driving causes more than 20,000 collisions every year in South Carolina, according to the SC Department of Public Safety. Greenville County is consistently one of the top counties for car accidents, making compliance with the hands-free law especially critical here.
4. Violating the Law Could Impact Your Car Accident Claim
If you’re involved in an accident and receive a hands-free violation, it may weaken your insurance claim or personal injury case. Conversely, if the other driver is cited, it could strengthen your case. That’s why it’s essential to have a Greenville car accident lawyer who understands how this new law affects liability.
5. Build Safer Driving Habits Today
Stay safe on Greenville’s busy roads by:
- Setting GPS and playlists before driving
- Using Bluetooth or voice commands for texts and calls
- Mounting your phone on the dashboard
- Asking passengers for help if you need to use your phone
A Final Word from Greenville Car Accident Lawyer Thomas Creech
As a Greenville personal injury attorney, Thomas Creech has seen firsthand how distracted driving changes lives. The new South Carolina hands-free law is a step toward safer roads in the Upstate. Even with this law, accidents will still happen.
If a distracted driver has injured you or a loved one, contact the Thomas Creech Law Offices for a free consultation.
