Report shows decline in distracted driving since new Ohio law went into effect
New data shows the state’s strengthened distracted driving law is making a positive impact on Ohio’s roadways.
“Ohio’s new law went into effect a little over a month ago, and it’s already making a difference,” Ohio Governor. Mike DeWine said. “I’m glad to see that Ohio drivers are making safety a priority and putting their phones down while they drive.”
The report from Cambridge Mobile Telematics (CMT), the world’s largest telematics service provider, shows Ohio drivers are now spending less time handling their phones while driving since the law went into effect on April 4, 2023. The law makes it illegal in most cases for drivers to use or hold a cell phone or electronic device. The violation is now considered a primary offense, meaning any officer can pull over a driver immediately if they witness a violation.
What does the report say about Ohio and distracted driving?
CMT’s data analysis shows a 9.1% reduction in distracted driving in Ohio since April 4 has helped prevent 540 crashes, one fatality, and $13 million in economic damages. In March, Ohio drivers spent an average of 1 minute and 39 seconds interacting with their phones for every hour of driving. From April 4 through May 3, Ohio drivers used their phones while driving 1 minute and 30 seconds, a 9-second drop.
“We are pleased that Ohio drivers are taking this new law seriously and beginning to change their behavior, but there is still more work to do,” said Emily Davidson, executive director of the Ohio Traffic Safety Office. “There is no acceptable level of distracted driving. This behavior is dangerous and puts everyone on the road at risk. The goal is for all drivers to put their phones down for the entire time they are behind the wheel.”
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