Distracted Driving Law Takes Effect

COLUMBUS – The new distracted driving law, originally introduced by State Representatives Cindy Abrams (R-Harrison) and Brian Lampton (R-Beavercreek) is now in effect.

The new law makes it illegal in many cases for anyone driving in Ohio to use or hold a cell phone or electronic device while behind the wheel. Abrams and Lampton first proposed this law in House Bill 283 of the 134th General Assembly. At the end of last year, that legislation was amended into Senate Bill 288, which covered a variety of criminal justice reform topics. 

“This law is not about writing tickets, but changing our behavior behind the wheel,” Abrams said. “We will absolutely save lives with this law in effect.”

From 2013 through 2019, more than 91,000 distracted driving crashes occurred throughout the state of Ohio, according to the State Highway Patrol. This resulted in more than 47,000 injuries and 305 deaths. 44 states have already passed various distracted driving laws. The bill sponsors noted that within two years of passing and enforcing distracted driving legislation, statistics reflect a consistent reduction in traffic deaths throughout these 44 states.

“Today marks the beginning of an incredible new chapter for Ohio,” Lampton added. “We want to reduce the recklessness surrounding distracted driving, and that all starts now.”

The law makes texting and driving a primary offense, implements a “single swipe” policy, and prohibits individuals from holding and looking at an electronic wireless communications device, with certain exceptions.