Officials say distracted driving law lowered crash numbers in Ohio

(The Center Square) – Traffic crashes across Ohio have decreased over the past year, and government officials credit the state’s year-old law banning cellphone usage while driving.

Local officers and troopers began enforcing the state’s ban in October 2023 after a six-month grace period, and compared to the year before, there were 1,112 fewer distracted driving crashes in the state from Oct. 5, 2023, to Oct. 4.

Fatal crashes attributed to distracted driving fell 19.4%.

“This is exactly what we expected would happen,” Gov. Mike DeWine said. “Ohio's tougher distracted driving law is influencing better behavior behind the wheel, leading to fewer crashes and fewer deaths. Together, we are promoting a culture of responsibility on our roads, and that’s truly something to celebrate.”

Over the same period of time, there were 15,400 fewer crashes in the state than the year before. Officials believe many involved in crashes do not admit to using their phone before the collision.

The state also contracted with Cambridge Mobile Telematics to analyze cellphone data about driver behavior since the new law took effect. That analysis showed handheld phone and screen interaction is down 10% among drivers who share that information as part of employer-based safety programs or insurance discount programs.

Cambridge estimated the law has prevented $283 million in economic damages.

“Ohio’s new law is not about collecting fines and punishing drivers. It’s about changing behavior,” Andy Wilson, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety, said. “Public education and awareness are critical to the success of our strengthened distracted driving law.”

Ohio’s law makes using a cellphone or other electric wireless communications device a primary offense for all drivers, meaning officers can pull over a distracted driver immediately when they see a violation. First-time offenders could be fined up to $150 and receive two points on their license.