Distracted driving is a serious issue, contributing to the loss of more than 3,000 lives each year. Distracted or inattentive driving involves anything that takes your attention away from the road. This may include an activity that requires you to take your hands off the wheel, to take your eyes off the road, or to preoccupy your mind.
At Shollenberger Januzzi & Wolfe, we hold distracted drivers accountable for their actions. If you or a family member has been injured due to a distracted driver, our accident lawyers in Harrisburg, PA, would like to hear from you. Our legal team offers a free initial consultation to assess your case and discuss your options.
Common Examples of Distracted Driving
Distracted driving may involve any of the following forms:
- Cognitive: Taking your mind off your driving
- Manual: Taking your hands off the steering wheel
- Visually: Taking your eye is off the road
Anytime a driver takes their attention away from navigating traffic, they place the lives of pedestrians and other motorists in danger. Many examples of distracted driving involve a combination of the above-listed distractions. Common examples of distracted driving in Harrisburg include:
- Texting
- Talking to passengers
- Using a cell phone
- Applying make-up
- Eating and drinking
- Grooming yourself
- Using a GPS navigation system
- Watching a video
- Reading maps or directions
- Adjusting the radio station
Pennsylvania’s Distracted Driving Law
Under Paul Miller’s Law, the Commonwealth prohibits drivers from using a mobile device while operating a motor vehicle. As of June 5, 2026, a violation of the law will be considered a summary offense, punishable by a $50 fine and other court costs and fees. Pennsylvania also has a separate texting-while-driving ban that prohibits sending, reading, or composing a text message while driving. Although there are no points against the driver’s license, it is accompanied by a $50 fine.
What many drivers do not realize is that at a normal highway speed, you may travel the length of a football field in five seconds (the average length of time to answer a text). Waiting to answer that text message may just save another person’s life.
Evidence in a Distracted Driving Case
Following an accident with a distracted driver, it is important that you contact an attorney immediately. This will ensure you preserve the evidence needed to build your case. In distracted driving cases, cell phone records or social media posts may be used to prove that the driver was engaged in another activity while operating their vehicle. Additionally, an eyewitness may testify that the driver was engaged in another activity while driving. Any of this evidence can be used to establish liability. Sometimes, physical evidence (such as the absence of skid marks) may indicate that the driver did not attempt to brake. This may further show the driver’s degree of distraction.
Gathering this evidence and crafting a strong case requires an experienced personal injury firm. While some victims may think that they can argue their case without counsel, this is never a wise decision. By retaining a distracted driving attorney, you guarantee that you will obtain the most compensation possible.
Speak with Our Harrisburg Distracted Driving Lawyers Today
If you sustained injuries due to another driver’s carelessness or inattention, you deserve to be compensated adequately. Money can rarely make up for the devastation of such an accident, but it can give you the resources you need to pay your medical bills and make a full physical recovery.
At Shollenberger Januzzi & Wolfe, our distracted driving attorneys are dedicated to helping individuals in Harrisburg and central Pennsylvania. Let us help you recoup any financial, emotional, and physical damages. To learn more or schedule your free consultation, reach out to us online or call (717) 229-6580.