Drivers in South Carolina are allowed to text while operating a motor vehicle. But this might change in the near future due to a new bill in the works. State lawmakers are joining forces to ban people from texting when they’re behind the wheel.

Details of the Proposed Ban

Although laws against texting have been proposed in the past, South Carolina has not put rules in place yet. Some legislators are hoping this will be the year that texting is addressed on a statewide level. Currently, South Carolina leaves it up to its cities to create laws against texting. But if House Bill 3121 passes, any driver who is caught texting in South Carolina will face penalties.

The bill would make distracted driving of any kind a misdemeanor. Negligent drivers can expect a $100 fine and two points on their licenses. If it’s determined after an investigation that texting specifically caused a fatal collision, the fine would increase to $10,000, with the possibility of 10 years in prison.

As it stands, South Carolina is one of six states that does not have any laws against texting while driving. At this time, 39 other states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico have rules that prohibit this dangerous habit. Furthermore, five other states bar texting for beginner drivers.

Need Legal Help?

Car crashes can occur for many reasons. Sometimes momentary distractions lead to devastating accidents. Our South Carolina car accident and injury attorneys at Joye Law Firm understand that no matter what the cause, an automobile collision can have physical, emotional and financial consequences for all involved. We’re always ready to fight for your rights if you or someone you love is the victim of a motor vehicle crash.

Please contact us for a free consultation at 877-941-2615 or fill out our convenient online form today. We have obtained millions of dollars in awards and settlements on behalf of injured persons who have worked with our law firm.

About the Author

Since 1968, the South Carolina personal injury and workers’ compensation attorneys of Joye Law Firm have been committed to securing compensation for accident and injury victims. Our compassionate and dedicated lawyers have over 300 years of combined litigation experience, and many of them have been recognized as South Carolina Super Lawyers. For many years, our South Carolina personal injury law firm has been listed with an AV rating in the prestigious Martindale-Hubbell legal directory.

Recent Blog Post
girl on the phone panicked standing beside her wrecked car
How Our Lawyers Handle an Allstate Injury Claim

Dealing with injuries from a car accident someone else caused can feel like a long, uphill battle. The pain and stress of recovery are challenging enough without the added frustration of dealing with insurance companies like Allstate. Unfortunately, Allstate, like…

Man being breathalyzed
What is Dram Shop Liability in South Carolina?

Alcohol-related accidents lead to devastating consequences, and holding the right parties accountable is crucial for justice. Dram shop and social host liability laws in South Carolina are designed to do just that. These laws hold businesses and individuals responsible when they…

man driving in bad weather
7 Tips for Driving in Bad Weather This Winter

As temperatures begin to drop across South Carolina from Clinton and Columbia to Charleston and Myrtle Beach, the probability increases of hazardous road conditions and weather-related car accidents. Traditionally, South Carolina doesn’t get much snow. However, the January 3, 2018…

What to do in South Carolina? Events for the week of January 21-27, 2025 in Charleston, Summerville, Columbia, Myrtle Beach, and Upstate SC.
What to Do in South Carolina: Joye Law Firm Staff Picks 1/21/25 – 1/27/25

    South Carolina has something special for everyone this week, whether you’re a foodie, music lover, sports enthusiast, or dog lover. The Joye Law Firm team has rounded up some of the most exciting events happening across the state….

Awards & Recognition
Media
ABC
NBC
Fox
CBS News
ESPN Radio logo