Two years since Ohio enacted its “phones down” law, the state is seeing encouraging results in the fight against distracted driving.
Since the law took effect in April 2023, crashes are down 8%, injuries have dropped 3%, and traffic fatalities have declined 4%, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol. The law, signed by Gov. Mike DeWine in 2023, made using a handheld electronic device while driving a primary offense.
Data from Cambridge Mobile Telematics shows a 10% drop in phone use among drivers participating in safety incentive programs. The group estimates the law has saved Ohio $337 million in economic damages.
“Distracted-driving crashes are completely avoidable,” DeWine said. “We’ve made progress, but we still have work to do.”
In 2024, Ohio recorded 8,571 distracted-driving crashes, with 29 fatalities and more than 4,400 injuries. Nearly 36% of these incidents occurred at intersections.
Drivers under 35, particularly men, are most likely to drive distracted. Crashes are most common on roads posted at 35 mph.
More than 25,000 people have completed Ohio’s online safety course, which allows first-time offenders to reduce penalties.
“Ohio’s hands-free law is saving lives,” said Patrol Superintendent Col. Charles Jones. “But safety starts with every driver.”
Source: Ohio Department of Transportation, Toledoblade.com
