(COLUMBUS) - Ohio officials say the state's hands-free distracted driving law is being credited with a major drop in crashes and roadway deaths since it took effect.
State figures show about 18,000 fewer crashes and roughly 280 fewer traffic deaths tied to distracted driving in the period after the law's passage, according to the Ohio Governor's Office.
The law, enacted in 2024, bans drivers from using handheld phones for anything beyond minimal interaction, such as swiping, tapping, or texting while behind the wheel. Drivers 18 and older can still use hands-free options like speakerphone, wireless headsets, in-vehicle systems and other approved devices.
Ohio officials say the law was designed to cut down on preventable crashes caused by cell phone distraction, and early numbers suggest it is doing exactly that.
The law includes escalating penalties, starting with license points and fines up to $150 for a first offense, with steeper penalties for repeat violations and double fines in work zones.