Distracted Driving Bill to be Introduced in Ohio House

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Cindy Abrams (R-Harrison) today announced she will be introducing legislation alongside her colleague, State Rep. Brian Lampton (R-Beavercreek), that expands current language regarding texting and driving to make Ohio a Hands-Free state.

According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, from 2013 through 2019, more than 91,000 distracted driving crashes occurred throughout the state of Ohio. This resulted in more than 47,000 injuries and 305 deaths. 

“A recent survey found that distracted driving is overwhelmingly the number one concern for Ohio drivers,” said Abrams. “The goal of this bill is to make our state a safer place to travel and reduce the amount of deaths and injuries on our roads.”

The legislation implements a “single swipe” policy and prohibits individuals from holding or physically supporting an electronic wireless communications device with any part of the body, with certain exceptions. 

“I am honored to work with Representative Abrams on this legislation,” said Lampton. “With over 30 years of experience in the insurance industry, distracted driving incidents are something I am all too familiar with. This legislation will help prevent further tragedies from taking place on our roads and highways.”

Currently, 44 states have passed various distracted driving laws. Abrams noted that within two years of passing and enforcing distracted driving legislation, statistics reflect a consistent reduction in traffic deaths throughout these 44 states.

Abrams and Lampton are currently seeking cosponsors for the legislation.