South Carolina to Enforce Hands-Free Law Starting September 1

A driver holding a phone while driving past a road sign in South Carolina announcing a new hands-free law, with a police car approaching in the opposite lane.

New Law Hopes To Curb Distracted Driving Accidents

Distracted driving isn't just a bad habit — in South Carolina, it's a public safety crisis. According to a report by WSPA 7 News, the state experiences more than 20,000 distracted driving collisions annually. That's about two crashes every hour caused by drivers who aren't paying attention to the road.

Drivers across the state are also noticing it.

"People just almost stop; I mean, like, on the road, just talking on their phone. Not paying attention to what's going on around them," said Camilla Burnett, a local driver interviewed by 7NEWS.

South Carolina Officials Respond

In response, South Carolina is taking action. Beginning September 1, 2025, the state will enforce a new hands-free driving law. Drivers will no longer be allowed to hold a phone for any reason while their vehicle is in motion.

At Twenge + Twombley Law Firm, we've seen how distracted driving can change lives in an instant. This law is more than just a new rule, it's a chance to prevent life-altering injuries and deaths on South Carolina roads.

What the New Hands-Free Law Means for Drivers

Starting September 1, it will be illegal to hold your phone in your hand while driving. That includes:

Texting or typing
Reading emails or messages
Making calls without a hands-free device
Watching videos or playing games
Any other use that involves physically holding your phone

"If the phone is in your hand while the car is in motion, you're breaking the law," said Michael Parris, a traffic officer with the Spartanburg Police Department.

Grace Period First, Penalties Later: What to Expect

The law comes with a 180-day grace period beginning September 1. During that time, police officers will have the authority to pull over drivers who are seen holding their phones. However, most stops will result in warnings and educational conversations rather than fines.

"We want people to understand what's changing and how to adjust," Parris said.

Starting in spring 2026, the penalties will go into full effect:

First offense: $100 fine
Second offense (within three years): $200 fine and two points off your driver's license

The added points could lead to increased insurance rates and even license suspensions, which should serve as a significant incentive for drivers to refrain from using their phones while driving.

Are There Any Exceptions?

South Carolina drivers can still use their phones under the following limited conditions:

When the vehicle is legally parked
When stopped at a red light
When using a hands-free system such as Bluetooth or voice commands
Briefly touching a mounted phone to start or end a call

But the moment your car is in motion, holding your phone becomes a violation.

Distracted Driving Accident Victims Deserve Justice

At Twenge + Twombley Law Firm, our lawyers represent victims of serious car accidents, including those caused by distracted drivers.

These collisions often result in:

Traumatic brain injuries
Spinal cord damage
Permanent disabilities or amputations
Severe fractures and internal injuries
Long-term financial and emotional hardship

How a Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer Can Help

Distracted driving cases can be challenging to prove. That's why you need an attorney who understands how to uncover phone use, handle insurance negotiations, and navigate South Carolina's legal system.

At Twenge + Twombley, we've spent over 30 years combined helping crash victims across South Carolina. We know what it takes to build a strong case and aren't afraid to take it to court if that's what it takes to get results.

If a distracted or negligent driver has injured you, get legal help you can count on. Contact us today for a free consultation. We offer legal representation on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay absolutely nothing unless we win your case. Don't wait - give us a call or contact us online to see how we can help with your potential legal case.

"I have had the experience of being a client of Twenge & Twombley Law Firm. They had come highly recommended to me to handle a personal, complex legal matter, and handled it very well.. Their staff is first class. They get the job done, and are of the highest integrity." – Rich U., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐