COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio is joining nearly two dozen states with the implementation of a hands-free law.
On January 3, Governor Mike DeWine signed a bill that strengthens distracted driving laws in Ohio, and the law goes into effect in April. The new law makes the use of cell phones and other electronic communications devices while driving a primary traffic offense for all drivers, and allows law enforcement to immediately pull over a distracted driver upon witnessing a violation.
“Ohio’s new law is part of a comprehensive plan to make Ohio’s roads safer for everyone,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “By strengthening prohibitions against distracted driving and enhancing patrols in problem areas, it’s our goal to bring about systemic change in driver behavior that discourages the use of electronic devices while driving.”
Under the new law, drivers are not allowed to use, hold, or physically support a cellphone while operating a vehicle. This includes activities such as texting, making phone calls, or using social media. Those who violate the law may face fines, with the amount increasing for repeat offenses. A first offense carries a fine of $150, a second offense is $250, and a third offense within two years is $500.
According to the Ohio Highway Patrol, there have been 73,945 crashes linked to distracted driving in the state since 2017, and in 2022 alone, 31 fatal crashes were caused by distracted drivers. The hope is that the new law will encourage drivers to keep their focus on the task of driving and improve safety on the roads.
“My prayer is that this law will save lives. We can do nothing to bring our Maria back, but we are determined to keep other families from going through the nightmare of losing a child or a loved one on our roadways,” said Dom Tiberi, sports anchor for WBNS 10-TV and founder along with his wife, Terri, of the Maria Tiberi Foundation named in honor of their late daughter, Maria, who was killed in a distracted driving accident. The foundation encourages defensive driving and educates about the dangers of distracted driving.
The Ohio Highway Patrol reports that Ross County has the highest number of crashes involving distracted drivers in southern Ohio. Since 2017, over 620 vehicle crashes have occurred in the county. In 2022 alone, there have been 40 vehicle accidents, one of which was fatal. Route 159 and Route 50, the patrol says, have seen the highest number of distracted driving crashes this year.
Distracted driving is defined as any non-driving activity a person engages in that has the potential to distract him or her from the primary task of driving and increase the risk of crashing.
