Everything You Need to Know about the Distracted Driving Law in Ohio
On April 4 th , 2023, it became illegal in most situations for drivers in Ohio to use or even hold a phone or other electronic device. The state unveiled a public awareness campaign to draw attention to the strengthened distracted driving laws. The campaign encourages drivers to ‘Lock Your Screen Before You Rock the Road,’ and use slogans such as ‘Phones Down. It's the Law’ on marketing materials. If you have used a phone or another electronic device while in the driver’s seat, you are not alone. Governor Mike DeWine cited research from Nationwide Insurance that found a substantial number of Ohio drivers admitted to using a phone or other electronic device while behind the wheel. More specifically, 42 percent admitted to making a phone call on a handheld device while driving, for example, 25 percent said they’ve texted, 10 have video chatted, and 5 percent confessed to watching a movie or TV. Still, many drivers are unaware of the law. Others simply can’t resist the temptation of