S.B. No. 285 - Distracted Driving and Electronic Wireless Communications Device Laws

• Expands the definition of "distracted driving" to include any activity that impairs or reasonably would impair safe vehicle operation, not just handheld device use

• Prohibits operating a motor vehicle while using electronic wireless communications devices to write, send, read text-based communications, view videos, or record/broadcast images, with exceptions for voice-operated hands-free devices and emergency use

• Creates new offense of "vehicular harm" (misdemeanor of first degree) for causing physical harm while distracted, with penalties including $500-$1,000 fine and license suspension

• Establishes additional distracted driving penalties: up to $100 fine for violations of traffic laws committed while distracted, with option to attend distracted driving safety course instead

• Requires driver education instruction for beginning drivers to include dangers of distracted driving and mandates traffic signs regarding electronic device prohibitions at interstate/highway entries and commercial airport exits