Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of serious vehicle accidents in Ohio. In response to growing concerns about crashes caused by cell phone use and other distractions behind the wheel, Ohio lawmakers strengthened distracted driving laws in recent years.
Under Section 4511.204 of the Ohio Revised Code, drivers are generally prohibited from using, holding or physically supporting an electronic wireless communications device while operating a motor vehicle. The law applies to activities such as texting, scrolling through apps, streaming videos, entering information into a device or otherwise engaging with electronics in a way that takes attention away from driving.
Ohio treats distracted driving as a primary offense, meaning law enforcement officers can stop drivers solely for violating distracted driving laws. The purpose of the law is simple: drivers should keep their attention on safely operating their vehicles rather than focusing on phones or other distractions.
Phones Down. Eyes Up.
Ohio’s “Phones Down. Eyes Up.” initiative reinforces these legal requirements by encouraging safer driving habits and educating the public about dangerous distractions. The campaign strongly discourages drivers from prohibited distraction-related behavior, while reinforcing that drivers may use hands-free technology, speakerphone functions, voice commands or dashboard-mounted devices in many situations.
Briefly touching a device for navigation purposes or answering calls through hands-free systems may also be permitted under specific circumstances. Emergency communications with law enforcement, healthcare providers or emergency responders are generally allowed as well.
The initiative also reminds drivers that engaging in prohibited distracted driving behavior may result in civil and/or criminal consequences.
When crashes occur despite Ohio’s prohibition of distracted driving
Unfortunately, distracted driving accidents often result in severe injuries. In many cases, these injuries create lasting financial and emotional hardships for victims and their loved ones.
Williams DeClark Tuschman has a long history of helping seriously injured victims harmed by negligent drivers. We encourage you to avoid becoming a distracted driver yourself and remain aware of motorists who may not be fully focused on the road around you. It is also important to understand and exercise your rights effectively if a distracted driver ever causes you harm.
If you are injured in an Ohio accident caused by distracted driving, it is important to seek legal guidance as soon as possible. In Ohio, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. Acting quickly may help protect your ability to pursue compensation, particularly when injuries involve long-term medical complications or complex liability issues.