FYI FOC

From AD Scott Kaufman

Taken from the Ohio BMV Website: http://bmv.ohio.gov/texting_ban.stm

New Ohio Law- Texting Ban- that took effect today: 

If you're under age 18: It is illegal to use any electronic wireless communications device while driving in Ohio. 
This means: 
* No texting
* No e-mailing
* No talking on your cell phone, Bluetooth, Bluetooth speakers, On-Star or any similar device
* No computers, laptops or tablets
* No playing video games
* No using your GPS (unless it's a voice-operated or hands-free device)- Even when you are sitting at a light or stuck in traffic  
It's a Primary Offense: Law enforcement can stop you for any of the above reasons. First violation: $150 fine, driver license suspended for 60 days Second and/or subsequent violations: $300 fine, driver license suspended for one year 
Exceptions: Pre-programmed GPS, vehicles in a stationary position and outside a lane of travel, emergency calls to law enforcement, hospital, fire department, etc. 
Adult drivers (18 years or older): *It is Illegal to use a handheld electronic wireless communications device to write, send or read a text while driving in Ohio. Minor misdemeanor, could face a fine of up to $150 
Texting While Driving: How Dangerous is it?
- Among driving distractions, texting is extremely dangerous because it takes your eyes and attention off the road.
- 40% of all American teens say they have been in a car when the driver used a cell phone in a way that put people in danger (Pew Research Center).
- About 50% of teens surveyed admit to texting while driving (AT&T Poll, 2012).
- Texting while driving takes your eyes off the road for about five seconds. At 55 mph, that's like driving the length of a football field - 100 yards - with your eyes closed (USDOT)
- You are 23 times more likely to crash while texting and driving (VTTI)