South Carolina’s highways already demand patience, but now they demand discipline. The state will ban drivers from even holding phones or other electronic devices while behind the wheel. The law arrives September 1, and every licensed motorist there (about 4 million of them) will feel its reach.

Lawmakers approved the measure this summer after years of rising crash reports tied to distraction

Public safety officials said phone use in traffic caused thousands of collisions annually. They explained that the new rules aim to cut down on those numbers and match the safety standards already in place across much of the country.

The “Hands-Free and Distracted Driving” law leaves little room for loopholes

Drivers can’t grip a device with their hands, balance it on a shoulder, or even rest it against another part of the body.

Reading or sending texts, checking apps, or writing emails while the car is moving are all forbidden. Streaming videos, playing games, or taking video calls will also count as violations.

The penalties hit harder with each offense

The first violation brings a $100 fine. A second violation brings a $200 fine and adds two points to the license. Too many points can raise insurance costs or even lead to suspension.

The Department of Public Safety will give drivers time to adjust

Officers will issue warnings only for the first 180 days. Starting February 28, they will write tickets and add points, Newsweek shared.

Agency director Robert Woods signed the bill on July 31. He said the focus will start with education but shift to firm enforcement.

For drivers who scroll at red lights or sneak glances at apps in traffic, the window is closing. South Carolina has set a new standard, and the countdown has begun.