As of Thursday, October 5, 2023, Ohio’s roads became a bit safer—or at least that’s the hope. On this day, law enforcement began issuing citations for violations of Ohio’s new distracted driving law. The previous grace period had given drivers six months to adjust to these rules, but this time for warnings has now ended.

According to the Ohio Department of Public Safety, the new law, found in Section 4511.204 of the Ohio Revised Code, prohibits drivers from holding or using a cell phone or electronic device in their hand, lap, or other parts of their body while driving. This move sends a powerful message to drivers that if an officer observes such a violation, they will pull you over.

Senior Brock Sherman said, “It’s going to take some getting used to, especially when I’m trying to change a song or check a quick message.” Yet, the state does provide exceptions to the rule. Drivers over 18 can make or receive calls using hands-free devices such as a speakerphone, earpiece, wireless headset, electronic watch, or by linking their phone to their vehicle. The basic idea is that any action requiring more than a single touch or swipe on your device while driving is off-limits.

Junior Lily Patterson noted, “It’s so easy to just pick up the phone when it buzzes. But I guess we all need to break the habit for safety’s sake. It will take some time but should feel normal after a couple of months.”

Matthew DeSciscio brought up an interesting angle about the law’s practicality. “How would they see and prove if people are texting and driving?” he wondered, pointing to potential challenges law enforcement might face when trying to enforce the new regulations.

Bluetooth is also accommodated in the new law. Drivers over 18 can make or receive calls using hands-free tech like Bluetooth or vehicle-integrated systems. The Ohio Department of Public Safety urges, “If you must physically manipulate your device, pull over to a safe location and park your car before handling.”

The Ohio Department of Public Safety and Channel Three have highlighted the following activities as strictly prohibited:

– Dialing a phone number.

– Sending text messages (though voice-to-text is permissible if hands-free).

– Social media activities.

– Video calls.

– Internet browsing.

– Watching videos (excluding GPS/navigation displays).

– Playing games.

– Recording or streaming videos.

Reflecting on the list of prohibited activities, junior Sofie Piro admitted her practices, sharing, “I may have texted while driving in the past, but I was super careful and had it under control.” Her statement shows the overconfidence of some young drivers. This false confidence is precisely what leads to tragedies on the road. Governor DeWine’s office highlighted earlier this year that, although such incidents are often underreported, the Ohio State Highway Patrol has recorded an alarming 73,945 distracted driving crashes in Ohio since 2017. Of these, 2,186 were either fatal or resulted in severe injuries.

Exceptions to the law include reporting emergencies, device use during traffic lights or road closures, and specific duties for first responders or utility workers. On these exceptions, Ava Framartino remarked, “It was already in place for minors, I think,” suggesting that some younger drivers might not feel the full force of the changes.

Sebastian Reyes, however, felt the measures had been long overdue. “Most accidents stem from impaired or distracted driving, not speeding,” he claimed, suggesting the law targets the primary causes of road accidents and will be a good thing.

Penalties for violations are stringent. A first offense within two years results in a $150 fine and 2 points on the driver’s license. The second offense in two years: 3 points assessed to license, up to a $250 fine. And third or more offense(s) in two years: 4 points assessed to license, up to a $500 fine, possible 90-day suspension of driver license. Fines are doubled if the violation occurs in a work zone.

For those unaware of the consequences, Carmella Urvay pointed out, “You could appear to be texting, but actually be just looking at directions,” highlighting the law’s potential ambiguity in an echo to Matthew DeSciscio’s concern.

Governor Mike DeWine’s intention is clear. This law isn’t about issuing more tickets, it’s about ensuring safer roads for all Ohioans. Given the varied opinions of Ohio’s younger drivers, it is clear that the new law will need a continued adjustment period.