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Posted on January 15, 2026 in Car Accidents
Is South Carolina a hands-free state? As of September 1, 2025, the answer is yes. The South Carolina hands-free law took effect under the Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act. The new driving and phone law limits how South Carolina motorists can use mobile phones and other devices while driving.
South Carolina’s new hands-free law establishes what drivers may do with a mobile device, what happens after a ticket, and how a distracted driving citation can affect an injury claim. The South Carolina car accident attorneys at The Melonakos Law Firm stand ready to explain how these rules apply after a serious crash and how to hold negligent drivers accountable for their actions.
State lawmakers expanded earlier texting rules into a broad ban on holding or supporting a phone or tablet while driving on a public road. Under the new South Carolina distracted driving law, drivers may not use devices to text, scroll through social media, check email, or watch videos while driving.
Key restrictions under the new driving and phone law include a ban on:
Exceptions apply to motorists who are lawfully parked or stopped, using hands-free technology, using an electronic device as a navigation system, streaming music without touching the device, or reporting emergencies. Law enforcement, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel are also exempt when performing official duties.
Enforcement began with a warning period for violations during the first 180 days after the law took effect, then moved into full penalties. Drivers who ignore South Carolina’s cell phone while driving laws now face fines, and repeat violations add points to a driving record that insurers review.
Typical penalties under the Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act include a $100 fine for a first offense and a $200 fine and two points on the violator’s driver’s license for second and subsequent offenses.
Once the warning phase ended, the answer to the question of “Is South Carolina a hands-free state?” became clear. Tickets can raise insurance rates, affect some jobs that require driving, and appear on background checks that review motor vehicle records.
Evidence that a driver broke South Carolina’s cell phone while driving laws could affect liability in a personal injury case if distracted driving caused the crash. Phone records, dashcam footage, officer observations, and witness statements can help show that a driver chose to look at a screen rather than the road, and the distraction led to a collision.
A car accident lawyer with The Melonakos Law Firm can review all available evidence, request phone data when appropriate, and work with investigators to connect distracted driving to the crash that injured you. Strong proof of unsafe phone use can support claims for medical bills, lost income, pain, suffering, and vehicle damage in a car accident case.
People hurt in car crashes caused by phone use often feel overwhelmed by medical appointments, missed time at work, and calls from adjusters. Guidance from a personal injury lawyer at The Melonakos Law Firm can give you a clear plan for protecting your rights and seeking fair compensation for all your losses.
An experienced accident attorney with our firm is ready to answer all your questions about the South Carolina Hands-Free Law. We can also outline your options for moving forward with a personal injury claim if a distracted driver injured you.
We are ready to provide a free consultation when you call us or contact us online.
Michael Melonakos is a Greenville-based personal injury attorney known for his experience representing both accident victims and major insurers. After years with top Atlanta defense firms, he now uses his insider knowledge to help Upstate clients maximize their injury claims. Michael is committed to compassionate service and is actively involved in the Greenville community.
