The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), along with the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP), Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission, and Pennsylvania Traffic Injury Prevention Project, is emphasizing safe driving practices during the summer travel season. PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll highlighted the importance of safety, urging drivers to “designate a sober driver or arrange for alternate transportation” and to “put the phone down and keep your full attention on the road.”
To enhance safety efforts, law enforcement will conduct checkpoints and patrols as part of the Fourth of July Impaired Driving Campaign. This initiative is supported by more than $6.2 million from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for impaired driving enforcement.
In 2024, PennDOT recorded 47 alcohol-related crashes over the Independence Day period, resulting in one fatality and 38 injuries. There were also 13 drug-related crashes with five injuries during this time. Last summer saw 2,238 impaired driving crashes, leading to 116 fatalities and 1,650 injuries.
Two new laws are now in effect to promote safer roads. “Paul Miller’s Law,” signed by Governor Josh Shapiro, bans hand-held device use while driving. Written warnings will be issued until June 5, 2026, after which citations will begin. Act 150 of 2024 prohibits devices that alter vehicle license plates to evade tolls or engage in reckless behavior.
PSP Commissioner Colonel Christopher Paris advised travelers to “obey traffic laws for the safety of everyone on the road.” He emphasized responsible driving and avoiding distractions.
On the PA Turnpike, distraction-free driving is crucial as open road tolling continues. CEO Mark Compton said that “safety is part of everything we do at the Pennsylvania Turnpike.”
Pennsylvania law mandates seat belt use for all occupants under age 18 and specific child safety seat requirements. Kelly Whitaker from PA TIPP recommended non-motorized RVs for families traveling with children due to better compliance with child passenger safety standards.
Travelers can check road conditions via www.511PA.com or its mobile app. The PA Turnpike Traffic Operations Center offers assistance at *11 for emergencies or issues on the turnpike.
Information from this article can be found here.
