Motor vehicle accidents in Ohio happen every day and cause serious personal injuries. These collisions happen for a variety of reasons ranging from speeding to reckless behavior to failure to yield.
A new law seeks to reduce the dangers of distracted driving in the state.
The details of the law
Information from The News Record says the new law for distracted driving makes it a primary offense to use hand-held devices while driving. The law went into effect on April 4, 2023.
The law applies to all devices, including phones, laptops and other technologies. Drivers cannot hold these devices in their hands or have them on their laps, nor can they engage in any actions with these devices. The law does allow drivers to continue to use Bluetooth technologies and similar hands-free items.
Certain exceptions to the law exist for emergencies and emergency personnel. Devices that only require a single swipe to use do not fall under the law. The legislation calls for a six-month grace period before authorities will begin to ticket drivers for violating the law.
An information campaign coincides with the passage of the new law to influence driver behavior for the better. This campaign includes billboards and radio and television advertisements.
The dangers of distracted driving
The law seeks to reduce accidents caused by drivers distracted when using digital devices. Information from the Ohio State Highway Patrol shows that distracted drivers caused over 12,000 accidents in the past 15 months. This includes 28 fatal crashes in the past year.
Car accidents due to bad driving practices result in numerous wrongful deaths and personal injuries every year. Legal action can help victims achieve justice.