News Summary

Governor Henry McMaster has signed the Hands-Free and Distracted Drivers Act in South Carolina, prohibiting mobile phone use while driving. The law, effective September 1, aims to improve road safety and reduce distracted driving accidents. This legislation follows years of advocacy and public concerns over the impact of distracted driving on safety. As the law takes effect, the state also faces severe weather challenges, necessitating a strong emphasis on driving safety during thunderstorms.

Aiken, South Carolina – Governor Henry McMaster has signed the Hands-Free and Distracted Drivers Act into law, which will prohibit the use of mobile phones and portable electronic devices while operating a vehicle. This new legislation aims to combat distracted driving and will take effect on September 1, 2023.

Key Features of the Hands-Free Law

The Hands-Free and Distracted Drivers Act marks a significant change in traffic safety regulations in South Carolina. Under this law, drivers will be prohibited from holding or interacting with mobile devices, with exceptions being made for hands-free devices or emergency situations. This legislation comes as part of a public safety initiative to reduce accidents caused by distracted driving.

The road to the enactment of this law was a lengthy one, with Representative Bill Taylor from Aiken County advocating for the legislation for eight years. The idea for the Hands-Free law began during a motorcycle trip he took to Canada, where he noticed the hazards posed by distracted driving. The first version of the bill, initially known as the Driving Under the Influence of Electronics Act, was pre-filed in 2017. Over the years, the bill gained support and underwent a name change before finally passing in the recent legislative session, with urgent motivation stemming from concerns about the potential loss of $50 million in federal highway funds.

Severe Weather Conditions

As South Carolina prepares to enforce this new law, residents are also facing severe weather conditions. Thunderstorms are expected throughout the day, with a 100% chance of rain. Officials have noted the potential for scattered thunderstorms this afternoon, some of which may be severe. The National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for certain counties, including Clarendon, Kershaw, Lee, and Sumter until midnight. These storms could bring damaging winds, hail, and the risk of hydroplaning on wet roads, a dangerous condition where vehicles lose traction due to water buildup.

The high for today is forecasted to reach 83°F, with winds coming from the west-southwest at 10 to 20 mph. As night falls, the temperature is expected to drop to 69°F, accompanied by winds from the southwest at 10 to 15 mph. The Storm Prediction Center has placed the Lowcountry at a level two risk for severe storms on a five-point scale, with the best chances for rain and severe weather occurring in the afternoon.

Safety Measures and Public Responsibility

In light of both the new driving legislation and the inclement weather, officials are urging residents to prioritize safety. With summer being the peak season for severe thunderstorms and lightning strikes—around 25 million occur in the U.S. each year—maintaining vigilance while driving is essential. Residents are advised to seek shelter indoors during thunderstorms and report any severe weather conditions to the National Weather Service.

As South Carolina enacts this hands-free law, the focus remains on protecting public safety and improving the overall driving experience within the state. The government’s duty to ensure that driving remains a safe privilege for all is at the forefront of this legislation. With increasing support from the community and a clear understanding of the dangers posed by distracted driving, officials hope to reduce the number of accidents on the state’s roads, particularly as severe weather conditions become a threat.

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