COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – The Ohio Revised Code lays out specific rules for using a mobile device behind the wheel, including addressing whether it is legal to scroll while stopped at a red light or talk on the phone while driving.
Ohio implemented a distracted driving law in October 2023, generally banning motorists from using, holding or “supporting” an electronic device in their hand, lap or other parts of their body while driving. The statute empowered law enforcement to pull drivers over after witnessing such offenses. See NBC4’s previous coverage in the video player above.
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Historically, Ohio’s law prohibited cellphone use while driving, but doing so was a secondary offense, meaning police officers had to observe a primary violation before pulling a car over. Primary violations include actions such as running a red light or following too closely.
The distracted driving law does provide exceptions. Drivers are allowed to use their phones when stopped at a red light, when their vehicle is stationary and outside a lane of travel, and when parked on a road due to an emergency or road closure…