South Carolina Cracks Down on Distracted Driving

Thousands of citations issued since hands-free law took effect

Apr. 3, 2026 at 10:03pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a shattered smartphone screen against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh camera flash, conceptually representing the dangers of distracted driving.A shattered smartphone screen serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of distracted driving in South Carolina.Rock Hill Today

South Carolina's hands-free driving law, which went into effect last year, has led to over 3,400 citations being issued across the state in the past month alone. The law prohibits drivers from using mobile devices while behind the wheel, and law enforcement is urging residents to keep their eyes on the road and avoid distractions.

Why it matters

Distracted driving is a major safety concern, with the state losing over 900 lives last year. This new law aims to reduce accidents and save lives by keeping drivers focused on the task at hand.

The details

The South Carolina hands-free law, passed in 2025, gave drivers a 180-day grace period before enforcement began. Since February, the state highway patrol has issued around 260 citations across York, Lancaster, Chester and Chesterfield counties. Fines for violations start at over $230 and can increase with additional offenses.

  • South Carolina passed its hands-free law in 2025.
  • The law's grace period ended in February 2026.
  • Over the past month, the state has issued more than 3,400 citations.

The players

South Carolina Highway Patrol

The state law enforcement agency responsible for enforcing the hands-free driving law.

Earl Gatlin

A real estate attorney from Rock Hill, South Carolina who was killed in 2023 by a distracted driver while riding his bicycle.

Sarah Lowrance

Earl Gatlin's daughter, who has been advocating for distracted driving legislation since her father's death.

Mary Claire Lowrance

Earl Gatlin's granddaughter, who refuses to ride with friends who text and drive.

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What they’re saying

“Last year, in the state we lost over 900 people, not saying that was all off distracted driving but just imagine how many lives could be saved if we all did the right thing and paid attention on the roadway.”

— Master Trooper Hannah Davidson, South Carolina Highway Patrol

“I refuse to drive with friends because I've seen them text and drive. I will call them out for it.”

— Mary Claire Lowrance

What’s next

The South Carolina Highway Patrol will continue to monitor and enforce the hands-free driving law, with fines and penalties increasing for repeat offenders.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the devastating consequences of distracted driving and the importance of the new hands-free law in saving lives on South Carolina's roads. The state's crackdown on violations sends a clear message that drivers must keep their focus on the task at hand.