Ohio's Latest Distracted Driving Laws and Penalties
Ohio’s recently enacted law to combat distracted driving is in effect as of October 5, 2023. The Ohio Distracted Driving Law 2023 targets drivers using cell phones or other electronic devices. Lawmakers proposed a bill to address distracted driving in Ohio, which Gov. Mike DeWine signed into law to encourage Ohio drivers to put down their phones while on the road.
What Are Ohio’s New Distracted Driving Laws?
Under Ohio’s new law, the use of cell phones and other electronic devices is designated as a “primary offense.” With such a designation, law enforcement can pull over drivers they observe using a cell phone while driving without any additional violation.
The Ohio distracted driving law is subject to only a few exceptions. A driver will not violate the new law if they are using a cell phone or similar electronic device if:
- The driver is parked in their vehicle
- The driver touches their phone to answer or end a call
- The driver is stopped at a red light
- The driver holds the phone to their ear during a call
- The driver makes an emergency call to law enforcement or for emergency medical help
Note that despite the above exceptions, anything more than a single touch or swipe is against the law, according to the Ohio Department of Transportation.
Possible Penalties for Disobeying Traffic Rules in Ohio
Successive violations of the new Ohio cell phone laws mean greater penalties. The first offense within two years results in two points on your driver’s license and a fine of up to $150. For a second offense in two years, the fine increases to $250 and three points on your license. Any additional offenses will result in additional points, a fine increase, and a potential 90-day license suspension. Further, fines double if the violation occurs in a work zone.
Distracted Driving Statistics in Ohio
According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, most distracted driving accidents occur between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Approximately 39 percent of distracted driving accidents are caused by drivers aged 15-24. Unfortunately, 20 fatal crashes and 179 serious injury accidents have already occurred in 2023. The staggering statistics highlight the need for the new Ohio cell phone laws.
What To Do If Hit by a Distracted Driver
If you are injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver – whether they are using a cell phone or not – an experienced car accident attorney can help you manage the legal process. Before contacting an attorney, here are a few tips to keep in mind to protect your legal rights in the aftermath of an accident:
- Document the accident through photographs of the accident scene, any nearby traffic signs and signals, and any roadway conditions that may have contributed to the accident.
- Seek follow-up medical treatment even if you receive emergency medical care for your injuries, as some car accident injuries do not manifest immediately after a collision.
- Notify your insurance company that an accident occurred to comply with any notice provisions of your policy and contact an car accident lawyers for help.
Contact Our Ohio Car Accident Lawyers
If you sustained injuries in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, contact our Ohio car accident lawyers at Amourgis & Associates, Attorneys at Law. With an experienced Ohio car accident lawyer on your side, you can confidently move through the claims process to pursue the compensation you deserve. We look forward to offering you a free case evaluation at one of our many convenient office locations across Ohio.
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At Amourgis & Associates, Attorneys at Law, we only represent consumers. We fight for regular people who have been seriously hurt in accidents. We fight for people who are being crushed by overwhelming debt and need a fresh start. We fight for individuals and families. Never businesses. Never insurance companies. We are loyal to the consumer.
