There are around 300,000 car accidents every year in Ohio. And most of these are simple distracted driving mistakes that are completely preventable.
That’s why arguably THE most important thing you can do behind the wheel is keep your hands at 
There are around 300,000 car accidents every year in Ohio. And most of these are simple distracted driving mistakes that are completely preventable.
That’s why arguably THE most important thing you can do behind the wheel is keep your hands at 10 and 2 and your eyes on the road. Always.
What Is Distracted Driving?
Ohio defines distracted driving as “any non-driving activity a person may engage in that has the potential to distract him or her from the primary task of driving, thus increasing the risk of a crash.”
This can include anything from texting while driving to adjusting the radio or eating a sandwich, though texting typically gets the most attention.
Most actions that fall under the distracted driving umbrella, while dangerous, are perfectly legal. Currently, in Ohio, lawmakers are focused mainly on preventing distracted driving accidents that are caused by texting, while hopefully combating other issues in years to come.
Distracted Driving Statistics in Ohio
You don’t have to follow the local news every night to know that distracted driving is a problem, but here are a few statistics that might help you understand just how serious it is in Ohio:
In 2018, distracted driving caused 13,867 crashes in Ohio.
These accidents resulted in 508 serious injuries and 52 fatalities.
Distracted driving accidents increased more than 15% from 2013 to 2018.
Leading Causes of Driver-Error Accidents in Ohio
Distracted driving is the fifth-highest cause of driver-error accidents in Ohio. It's responsible for even more accidents than driving while intoxicated in this state. This highlights the very real risk this action presents.
Does Ohio Have Laws against Distracted Driving?
In 2012, Ohio rolled out a statewide ban on text messaging while driving.
Talking on the phone while using a handheld device is still permitted in Ohio with the exception of drivers under the age of 18, who are not allowed to use any portable electronic devices, even hands-free.
While the law focuses on texting while driving, anything that falls under the distracted driving umbrella (like applying makeup, eating, adjusting the A/C) can get you a citation if you break another law while doing so.
For example, if you run a stop sign, the police officer who pulls you over can also cite you for distracted driving if you missed the sign due to a secondary, distracting action.
Are There Any Exceptions to the Distracted Driving Laws in Ohio?
Using a preprogrammed GPS system is allowed. Also, drivers under 18 are permitted to use their cell phones if calling the police, ambulance, fire department, or other emergency services.
Also, although the state permits the use of handheld devices while driving, some Ohio towns and cities have outlawed it. If you're driving through Ohio and enter any of the following jurisdictions, you'll need to either end your call or switch to hands-free (Bluetooth) technology:
In the Village of Mantua, it's also illegal to hold a pet on your lap while driving. Mantua is currently the only Ohio location that has banned this distracting practice.
Ohio Distracted Driving Laws at a Glance
Is texting while driving legal?
Can you send/receive texts at a red light?
Is handheld device use permitted?
Any special restriction for young drivers?
Is headphone/headset use permitted?
Is It Legal to Eat a Cheeseburger while Driving in Ohio?
Yes. And no.
Distracted driving comes in many forms, and eating a cheeseburger can be just as distracting as reading a text. Anything that takes your attention awa