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New State Law Makes Ticketing for Distracted Driving Easier
By: Associated Press
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COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) – A new state law now makes it easier for police to ticket drivers in Ohio for distracted driving.
The law that went into effect Monday makes distracted driving a secondary offense. That means police who pull over motorists for a traffic violation could give them an additional ticket if any distracted driving contributed to the offense.
The punishment for a distracted-driving offense is either $100 or a distracted-driving safety course. The fine would be dropped if the driver proves completion of the online safety course.
Texting while driving was already a secondary offense in Ohio, but the new law broadens “distracted” to include any activity that’s not necessary for driving. It can include actions like eating or adjusting the radio.
Proponents say the law will help make Ohio roads safer.