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Put down the phone. Enforcement of Ohio distracted driving law begins Oct. 5

“Phones down — it’s the law.”

The Lake County Safe Communities Coalition is reminding drivers that law enforcement officials will begin cracking down on distracted driving beginning Oct. 5.

Ohio’s Distracted Driving Law took effect on April 4 and since then law enforcement has been stopping vehicles and issuing warnings to help raise awareness and promote safe driving, noted Lt. Larry Jones, Chardon Post commander of the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

“We will be issuing written citations to those who violate the new law, which carries fines,” he said. “In 2022, law enforcement agencies throughout Ohio responded to 10,281 distracted-related crashes. The goal of this law is to enforce (that) drivers put their phones down and pay attention to the road.”

Anything that involves using, holding or supporting a device while driving is prohibited, including:

• Dialing a phone number

• Sending text messages

• Updating or browsing social media

• Video calls

• Browsing the internet

• Watching, recording or streaming videos

• Playing games

According to the Ohio Department of Transportation and the Ohio Department of Public Safety, the law allows drivers over 18 to make or receive phone calls using “hands-free” technology, such as Bluetooth or integrated systems.

Drivers can listen to audio streaming apps and use navigational equipment if they turn them on before getting on the road or use a single touch or swipe to activate, modify or deactivate them.

Drivers under the age of 18 are still restricted from using devices in any way, including using hands-free features, officials added.

The law does include limited exceptions for drivers reporting an emergency, first responders, utility workers, licensed amateur radio operators and commercial truck drivers using a mobile data terminal.

For full details on enforcement and penalties, visit www.transportation.ohio.gov/phonesdown.

Safe Communities, a multi-agency partnership, was introduced to Ohio in December 1996 as a conceptual strategy for comprehensive traffic injury control at the local level.

According to the Lake County General Health District, the goal of the coalition is to reduce the number of traffic-related motor vehicle deaths in Lake County by increasing seat belt usage, increasing motorcycle safety awareness, and reducing distracted and impaired driving.

The group also participates in national campaigns, including “Click It or Ticket” and “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.”