Ohio's Driving While Text Messaging Laws Take a Turn for Safety

February 14, 2010 by Sam Swineharte

The practice of texting while driving has become a state-wide issue enabling many individuals to take action for the situation.  Cleveland has been one of the first major cities in Ohio to ban texting while driving and Bexley is following right behind.
Many police officials have been on the lookout for those who seem “distracted” while driving.
“I’ve seen many people driving down the highway looking down and swerving from left to right not paying attention to their driving at all,” Ohio State Highway Patrolman Sean Eitel said. “I can’t necessarily pull these people over and ticket them for texting while driving but I can ticket them for going left of center or driving recklessly."

The Ohio legislature is debating several bills that would crack down on driving while using hand-held devices.  A new house proposal will make texting while driving illegal throughout the entire state of Ohio.  The proposal states that a person cannot be pulled over for the actions of texting while driving, but can be issued a secondary ticket of $250 if caught in the action.
Many individuals feel that this proposal is a great way to ensure safety on the roads.  A Columbus State student stated that, “I am the status quo when it comes to texting while driving, but I realize the dangers and hope that with the new laws being put in action it will inhibit me to become a safer driver.” 
In accordance to combating against the issue, the group FocusDriven supported by U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood formed in early January is the first national nonprofit organization focusing entirely on raising awareness about the dangers of distracted driving.  The group will use testimonials from those whose loved ones have been killed in car accidents in which the driver was on a cell phone or text messaging.  The campaign is supported by the National Safety Council.
For more information on how to become active with FocusDriven, visit their website www.focusdriven.org.