Seven new driving laws are rolling out across the U.S., and they are about to hit drivers’ wallets and their licenses. In some extreme cases, drivers who break these laws might face jail time. These laws range from $100 fines for speeding near school zones to license suspensions for failing to yield to motorcyclists.
Here are the seven new driving laws:
1. Vision Zero Speed Cameras in Philadelphia
Speeding frequently results in collisions, so many cities are implementing new, automated enforcement measures in response. For example, speed cameras are being installed on Philadelphia’s extremely dangerous Broad Street.
Broad Street passes through sports venues like Lincoln Financial Field, which is one of the most dangerous streets according to a Vision Zero report released in 2024. A similar system, which reduced crashes and fatalities considerably on Roosevelt Boulevard, will also be applied on Broad Street.
These cameras will start issuing tickets to drivers exceeding the speed limit by more than 11 mph on September 15. Before $100 fines are imposed, there will be a 60-day grace period.
2. School Zone Speed Cameras in Miami-Dade
Similarly, speed cameras have been installed in school zones in Miami-Dade County, Florida. Thirty minutes before and after the start and end of the school day, the cameras will be in operation. Drivers who go over the speed limit by 10 mph or more will be fined $100 right away. The purpose of this policy is to protect children.
3. A Ban on Devices in Hand When Driving in South Carolina
More jurisdictions have made it illegal to use a phone while operating a motor vehicle. The most recent state to enact a “hands-free law,” South Carolina, did so on September 1. This implies that while driving, it is not permitted to hold or touch your phone in any way.
Drivers will only receive a warning for the first six months. After that, they will be fined $100 the first time they are caught and $200 the second time. The fact that 32 states have joined shows how committed the nation is to preventing distracted driving. Unless there is an emergency, drivers will have to use hands-free technology for everything.
4. Ohio’s New Requirement for Young Adults Learning to Drive Again
Ohio is now requiring new drivers under 21 to return to school and take driving lessons again. For this age group, the state no longer offers the previous expedited route to a license; instead, they must complete a comprehensive driver’s education course.
Beginning on September 30, the new law requires these drivers to complete 50 hours of practice with an adult in supervision, with 10 of those hours being spent at night. In addition, they have to complete eight hours of driving with a certified instructor and twenty-four hours of classroom instruction. Before obtaining a full license, which entails paying up to $400 for the necessary courses, this change aims to make young drivers safer and more experienced.
5. A Safer Ride in Oklahoma
Beginning on November 1, a new law in Oklahoma will make the roads safer for motorcycle riders. This is a result of bikes’ inferior protection compared to cars. According to the new law, drivers who fail to yield the right of way to a motorcycle and injure or kill someone will be subject to fines, required driving lessons, and possibly a 90-day license suspension. In order to improve road safety for all users, the proceeds from these fines will be reinvested in the state’s Motorcycle Safety and Education Program.
6. AI for Reckless Bus Drivers in Connecticut
Additionally, technology is taking over to protect people. AI-powered cameras have been installed on school buses in Shelton, Connecticut, to capture drivers who illegally pass a stopped vehicle. Although there is a grace period, anyone caught will be fined at least $250 beginning on September 29. By providing unambiguous video proof of the infraction, this new technology holds careless drivers accountable and improves safety for children getting on and off buses.
7. Cracking Down on Drink Driving in Oklahoma
Oklahoma’s new Marissa Murrow Act, which goes into effect on November 1, will increase the severity of penalties for DUI offenses. The law, which bears the name of a 19-year-old victim, makes it a felony to drive while intoxicated while speeding, causing an accident, or carrying alcohol for a minor. Bartenders must also complete more rigorous training and obtain a license. Holding intoxicated drivers and the establishments that overserve them more responsible is the aim.
Conclusion
All these new laws will play a huge role in making roads in these states safer. From AI-powered cameras to strict phone use bans and harsher DUI penalties, it is clear that reckless driving will not be tolerated.
Drivers, motorists, and other road users should note that these rules are not aimed at punishing them, but rather to protect all road users, including children near schools. They are also meant to make young adults better and more responsible drivers.
All drivers and motorists should ensure that they know the rules before they get behind the wheel.