Is It Illegal to Vape and Drive in Pennsylvania?
As a driver in Pennsylvania, you’re likely no stranger to the risks of texting and driving, but what about vaping? It may seem like a harmless activity, but research suggests that vaping can impair your driving skills, increasing the risk of accidents on the road. If you’re wondering whether vaping and driving in Pennsylvania is against the law, we’ve got the latest information for you.
Vaping Laws in Pennsylvania
While there’s no specific law prohibiting vaping and driving in Pennsylvania, the state does have regulations regarding the use of electronic devices while operating a vehicle.
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, using handheld electronic devices – including e-cigarettes and vaporizers – while driving is considered reckless driving and can result in a citation and fine.
Reckless Driving Laws and Penalties
Under Pennsylvania law, reckless driving is defined as operating a vehicle in a willful disregard for the safety of others. (1)
Penalties for driving recklessly can include steep fines, points on your license, and even jail time in severe cases.
Court Case Example
Take the case of [MaryAnn Shima, a 71-year-old driver from Indiana County’s], who was recently cited for driving recklessly. According to reports, Shima was driving on Route 119 when she drifted into oncoming traffic, forcing another driver to swerve to avoid a collision. Shima claimed she had been vaping with a cigarette in her hand at the time of the incident, but a witness disputed her claim. (2)
Conclusion: Beware of Vaping While Driving
While the law doesn’t explicitly prohibit vaping while driving, Pennsylvania’s reckless driving laws make it clear that operating a vehicle while using a handheld electronic device can have serious consequences.
Before you fire up your vape and hit the road, it’s essential to understand the risks associated with doing so and to consider the potential repercussions if you’re caught.
References:
https://www.penndot.gov/Manuals/DriverManual/Pages/Reckless%20Driving/Reckless%20Driving%20Introduction.aspx
[Software citation name, second option] Pennsylvania’s Laws on Reckless Driving
